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  • VOTE APPROVED

    Vote YES on Referendum 90

  • Young people deserve accurate information to help them make good decisions, to protect themselves, and to protect their futures. But today, too many students don’t receive high-quality, inclusive, medically accurate education about sex and healthy relationships, putting them at risk of sexual assault, unintended pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections. In particular, students of color are more likely to receive incomplete or incorrect sex education. 

    Voting to approve Referendum 90 will uphold the new Washington law (ESSB 5395) that requires all public schools to offer age-appropriate, inclusive, comprehensive sex education. Washington’s Legislature passed the law to expand access to sex education to all students. Unfortunately, the state Republican Party alongside anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-choice groups have put sex education up for another vote by placing Referendum 90 on the ballot. 

    Referendum 90 has been endorsed by a diverse group of more than 100 medical, education, and sexual assault prevention groups. Sex education serves as both prevention and intervention for sexual assault and rape. Children who are being sexually abused often don’t understand what is happening until someone provides them the tools and language to communicate about it with trusted adults.  

    This referendum means teaching students in grades K-3 self-awareness, self-control, and interpersonal skills. Parents retain ultimate control under Referendum 90 because the law gives parents at least one-month advance notice to review all materials, and parents may opt their children out of sex education classes. 

    Parents, teachers, and pediatricians know that in states with quality sex education, teens are talking about consent, waiting longer to have sex, avoiding unintended pregnancies, and keeping themselves safe. Vote to "Approve" Referendum 90.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Young people deserve accurate information to help them make good decisions, to protect themselves, and to protect their futures. But today, too many students don’t receive high-quality, inclusive, medically accurate education about sex and healthy relationships, putting them at risk of sexual assault, unintended pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections. In particular, students of color are more likely to receive incomplete or incorrect sex education. 

    Voting to approve Referendum 90 will uphold the new Washington law (ESSB 5395) that requires all public schools to offer age-appropriate, inclusive, comprehensive sex education. Washington’s Legislature passed the law to expand access to sex education to all students. Unfortunately, the state Republican Party alongside anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-choice groups have put sex education up for another vote by placing Referendum 90 on the ballot. 

    Referendum 90 has been endorsed by a diverse group of more than 100 medical, education, and sexual assault prevention groups. Sex education serves as both prevention and intervention for sexual assault and rape. Children who are being sexually abused often don’t understand what is happening until someone provides them the tools and language to communicate about it with trusted adults.  

    This referendum means teaching students in grades K-3 self-awareness, self-control, and interpersonal skills. Parents retain ultimate control under Referendum 90 because the law gives parents at least one-month advance notice to review all materials, and parents may opt their children out of sex education classes. 

    Parents, teachers, and pediatricians know that in states with quality sex education, teens are talking about consent, waiting longer to have sex, avoiding unintended pregnancies, and keeping themselves safe. Vote to "Approve" Referendum 90.

    Young people deserve accurate information to help them make good decisions, to protect themselves, and to protect their futures. But today, too many students don’t receive high-quality, inclusive, medically accurate education about sex and healthy relationships, putting them at risk of sexual assault, unintended pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections. In particular, students of color are more likely to receive incomplete or incorrect sex education. 

    Voting to approve Referendum 90 will uphold the new Washington law (ESSB 5395) that requires all public schools to offer age-appropriate, inclusive, comprehensive sex education. Washington’s Legislature passed the law to expand access to sex education to all students. Unfortunately, the state Republican Party alongside anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-choice groups have put sex education up for another vote by placing Referendum 90 on the ballot. 

    Referendum 90 has been endorsed by a diverse group of more than 100 medical, education, and sexual assault prevention groups. Sex education serves as both prevention and intervention for sexual assault and rape. Children who are being sexually abused often don’t understand what is happening until someone provides them the tools and language to communicate about it with trusted adults.  

    This referendum means teaching students in grades K-3 self-awareness, self-control, and interpersonal skills. Parents retain ultimate control under Referendum 90 because the law gives parents at least one-month advance notice to review all materials, and parents may opt their children out of sex education classes. 

    Parents, teachers, and pediatricians know that in states with quality sex education, teens are talking about consent, waiting longer to have sex, avoiding unintended pregnancies, and keeping themselves safe. Vote to "Approve" Referendum 90.

    Referendum 90

    Young people deserve accurate information to help them make good decisions, to protect themselves, and to protect their futures. But today, too many students don’t receive high-quality, inclusive, medically accurate education about sex and healthy relationships, putting them at risk of sexual assault, unintended pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections. In particular, students of color are more likely to receive incomplete or incorrect sex education. 

  • VOTE MAINTAINED

    Vote MAINTAINED on Advisory Vote 32

  • Legislators passed ESSB 5323 this year, which prohibits the use of thin plastic bags at all retail establishments beginning on January 1, 2021. Thirty-eight municipalities throughout the state have already banned the use of thin bags in stores; bags for damp grocery items and produce bags are exempt from the ban. Paper and thick plastic bags would still be allowed but customers would be subject to an $.08 pass-through charge. People using benefits such as the State Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and other programs will not be subject to this charge.

    This legislation will have tremendous and long-lasting benefits for community, economic, and environmental health. Washington residents use an estimated 2 billion single-use plastic bags every year, which are a huge source of pollution in rivers and oceans, and end up ingested by scores of marine wildlife. Plastic bags also cause significant mechanical and contamination issues at recycling and compost facilities.

    Washington will become the eighth state in the nation to take this step to protect our health and ecosystems. Vote "Maintained" on Advisory Vote 32.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Legislators passed ESSB 5323 this year, which prohibits the use of thin plastic bags at all retail establishments beginning on January 1, 2021. Thirty-eight municipalities throughout the state have already banned the use of thin bags in stores; bags for damp grocery items and produce bags are exempt from the ban. Paper and thick plastic bags would still be allowed but customers would be subject to an $.08 pass-through charge. People using benefits such as the State Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and other programs will not be subject to this charge.

    This legislation will have tremendous and long-lasting benefits for community, economic, and environmental health. Washington residents use an estimated 2 billion single-use plastic bags every year, which are a huge source of pollution in rivers and oceans, and end up ingested by scores of marine wildlife. Plastic bags also cause significant mechanical and contamination issues at recycling and compost facilities.

    Washington will become the eighth state in the nation to take this step to protect our health and ecosystems. Vote "Maintained" on Advisory Vote 32.

    Legislators passed ESSB 5323 this year, which prohibits the use of thin plastic bags at all retail establishments beginning on January 1, 2021. Thirty-eight municipalities throughout the state have already banned the use of thin bags in stores; bags for damp grocery items and produce bags are exempt from the ban. Paper and thick plastic bags would still be allowed but customers would be subject to an $.08 pass-through charge. People using benefits such as the State Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and other programs will not be subject to this charge.

    This legislation will have tremendous and long-lasting benefits for community, economic, and environmental health. Washington residents use an estimated 2 billion single-use plastic bags every year, which are a huge source of pollution in rivers and oceans, and end up ingested by scores of marine wildlife. Plastic bags also cause significant mechanical and contamination issues at recycling and compost facilities.

    Washington will become the eighth state in the nation to take this step to protect our health and ecosystems. Vote "Maintained" on Advisory Vote 32.

    Advisory Vote 32

    Legislators passed ESSB 5323 this year, which prohibits the use of thin plastic bags at all retail establishments beginning on January 1, 2021. Thirty-eight municipalities throughout the state have already banned the use of thin bags in stores; bags for damp grocery items and produce bags are exempt from the ban. Paper and thick plastic bags would still be allowed but customers would be subject to an $.08 pass-through charge.

  • Endorsed By The Stranger
  • VOTE MAINTAINED

    Vote MAINTAINED on Advisory Vote 33

  • Advisory Vote 33 references SSB 5628, which passed this year. This legislation provides a property tax exemption to heavy equipment rental property when owned by a heavy equipment rental property dealer. Such property includes, but is not limited to, equipment such as earthmovers, dump trucks, and jackhammers. Additionally, beginning on January 1, 2022, a 1.25% heavy equipment rental tax will be levied on heavy equipment rental, to be distributed evenly between the multimodal transportation account and the motor vehicle fund created by the legislation. The bill passed the Senate unanimously and through the House with a mixed majority, 53 to 44. Vote "Maintained" on Advisory Vote 33.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Advisory Vote 33 references SSB 5628, which passed this year. This legislation provides a property tax exemption to heavy equipment rental property when owned by a heavy equipment rental property dealer. Such property includes, but is not limited to, equipment such as earthmovers, dump trucks, and jackhammers. Additionally, beginning on January 1, 2022, a 1.25% heavy equipment rental tax will be levied on heavy equipment rental, to be distributed evenly between the multimodal transportation account and the motor vehicle fund created by the legislation. The bill passed the Senate unanimously and through the House with a mixed majority, 53 to 44. Vote "Maintained" on Advisory Vote 33.

    Advisory Vote 33 references SSB 5628, which passed this year. This legislation provides a property tax exemption to heavy equipment rental property when owned by a heavy equipment rental property dealer. Such property includes, but is not limited to, equipment such as earthmovers, dump trucks, and jackhammers. Additionally, beginning on January 1, 2022, a 1.25% heavy equipment rental tax will be levied on heavy equipment rental, to be distributed evenly between the multimodal transportation account and the motor vehicle fund created by the legislation. The bill passed the Senate unanimously and through the House with a mixed majority, 53 to 44. Vote "Maintained" on Advisory Vote 33.

    Advisory Vote 33

    Advisory Vote 33 references SSB 5628, which passed this year. This legislation provides a property tax exemption to heavy equipment rental property when owned by a heavy equipment rental property dealer. Such property includes, but is not limited to, equipment such as earthmovers, dump trucks, and jackhammers. Additionally, beginning on January 1, 2022, a 1.25% heavy equipment rental tax will be levied on heavy equipment rental, to be distributed evenly between the multimodal transportation account and the motor vehicle fund created by the legislation.

  • Endorsed By The Stranger
  • VOTE MAINTAINED

    Vote MAINTAINED on Advisory Vote 34

  • Advisory Vote 34 references ESSB 6492, which establishes the Workforce Education Investment Accountability and Oversight Board, as well as the Workforce Education Investment Account. In 2019, the Legislature made a historic promise to make public colleges more affordable across the state, instituting a business and occupation tax to significantly reduce costs for Washington's students.

    Senate Bill 6492 builds on the 2019 legislation by establishing the seventeen-member board, which will be filled by business leaders, students, labor leaders, and others to provide guidance to the Legislature on which workforce education priorities should be paid for by the fund. The bill also clarifies the complex 2019 legislation to make clear which businesses will be taxed, exempting more than 70,000 small businesses and setting a rate of 1.75% for businesses grossing more than $1 million annually.

    Vote "Maintained" on Advisory Vote 34.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Advisory Vote 34 references ESSB 6492, which establishes the Workforce Education Investment Accountability and Oversight Board, as well as the Workforce Education Investment Account. In 2019, the Legislature made a historic promise to make public colleges more affordable across the state, instituting a business and occupation tax to significantly reduce costs for Washington's students.

    Senate Bill 6492 builds on the 2019 legislation by establishing the seventeen-member board, which will be filled by business leaders, students, labor leaders, and others to provide guidance to the Legislature on which workforce education priorities should be paid for by the fund. The bill also clarifies the complex 2019 legislation to make clear which businesses will be taxed, exempting more than 70,000 small businesses and setting a rate of 1.75% for businesses grossing more than $1 million annually.

    Vote "Maintained" on Advisory Vote 34.

    Advisory Vote 34 references ESSB 6492, which establishes the Workforce Education Investment Accountability and Oversight Board, as well as the Workforce Education Investment Account. In 2019, the Legislature made a historic promise to make public colleges more affordable across the state, instituting a business and occupation tax to significantly reduce costs for Washington's students.

    Senate Bill 6492 builds on the 2019 legislation by establishing the seventeen-member board, which will be filled by business leaders, students, labor leaders, and others to provide guidance to the Legislature on which workforce education priorities should be paid for by the fund. The bill also clarifies the complex 2019 legislation to make clear which businesses will be taxed, exempting more than 70,000 small businesses and setting a rate of 1.75% for businesses grossing more than $1 million annually.

    Vote "Maintained" on Advisory Vote 34.

    Advisory Vote 34

    Advisory Vote 34 references ESSB 6492, which establishes the Workforce Education Investment Accountability and Oversight Board, as well as the Workforce Education Investment Account. In 2019, the Legislature made a historic promise to make public colleges more affordable across the state, instituting a business and occupation tax to significantly reduce costs for Washington's students.

  • Endorsed By The Stranger
  • VOTE MAINTAINED

    Vote MAINTAINED on Advisory Vote 35

  • ESB 6690, the bill that Advisory Vote 35 references, seeks to bring the state's business and occupation (B&O) tax rate on the aerospace industry in line with the World Trade Organization's ruling. The Legislature originally passed this controversial tax break to incentivize Boeing to keep jobs in the state, though some progressives have since said they regret their vote.

    However, the current B&O tax rate of 0.2904% violates the World Trade Organization's rules. With the support of the aerospace industry, the Legislature repealed the preferential B&O tax for the aerospace industry and brought it back to the regular rate of 0.357%. This change should bring the state and the nation into compliance, and reduces the threat of retaliatory tariffs against Washington industries such as fish, wine, and intellectual property.

    Vote "Maintained" on Advisory Vote 35.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    ESB 6690, the bill that Advisory Vote 35 references, seeks to bring the state's business and occupation (B&O) tax rate on the aerospace industry in line with the World Trade Organization's ruling. The Legislature originally passed this controversial tax break to incentivize Boeing to keep jobs in the state, though some progressives have since said they regret their vote.

    However, the current B&O tax rate of 0.2904% violates the World Trade Organization's rules. With the support of the aerospace industry, the Legislature repealed the preferential B&O tax for the aerospace industry and brought it back to the regular rate of 0.357%. This change should bring the state and the nation into compliance, and reduces the threat of retaliatory tariffs against Washington industries such as fish, wine, and intellectual property.

    Vote "Maintained" on Advisory Vote 35.

    ESB 6690, the bill that Advisory Vote 35 references, seeks to bring the state's business and occupation (B&O) tax rate on the aerospace industry in line with the World Trade Organization's ruling. The Legislature originally passed this controversial tax break to incentivize Boeing to keep jobs in the state, though some progressives have since said they regret their vote.

    However, the current B&O tax rate of 0.2904% violates the World Trade Organization's rules. With the support of the aerospace industry, the Legislature repealed the preferential B&O tax for the aerospace industry and brought it back to the regular rate of 0.357%. This change should bring the state and the nation into compliance, and reduces the threat of retaliatory tariffs against Washington industries such as fish, wine, and intellectual property.

    Vote "Maintained" on Advisory Vote 35.

    Advisory Vote 35

    ESB 6690, the bill that Advisory Vote 35 references, seeks to bring the state's business and occupation (B&O) tax rate on the aerospace industry in line with the World Trade Organization's ruling. The Legislature originally passed this controversial tax break to incentivize Boeing to keep jobs in the state, though some progressives have since said they regret their vote.

  • Endorsed By The Stranger
  • VOTE APPROVED

    Vote APPROVED for Long-Term Care Investments

  • Nearly 70% of adults over the age of 65 will need some level of long-term care, yet 90% are not insured for it. That’s why the Legislature established the Long-Term Care Trust Act in 2019 to address Washington’s long-term care crisis, reducing the burdensome cost of long-term care for hundreds of thousands of Washington families.

    This year, the state House and Senate approved Engrossed Senate Joint Resolution 8212 with overwhelming bipartisan votes of 96-1 and 45-3, respectively. If approved by voters this November, ESJR 8212 would give the Washington State Investment Board more options to responsibly manage Washington's Long-Term Care Trust Fund in order to ensure every elderly Washingtonian can rely on and afford the long-term care services they need, when they need them. 

    By giving the state Investment Board the ability to invest the trust fund, more families in Washington will be able to receive funding for care, with a benefit of up to $36,500 indexed to inflation. The state already invests pensions for frontline workers like teachers, police, and firefighters in this manner, allowing the funds to responsibly grow in value over time. The Long-Term Care Trust is overseen by a trusted, independent commission and will begin paying out benefits in 2025, offering seniors in Washington the care they need.

    Vote to "Approve" ESJR 8212 to make a smart investment in the health of Washingtonians!

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Nearly 70% of adults over the age of 65 will need some level of long-term care, yet 90% are not insured for it. That’s why the Legislature established the Long-Term Care Trust Act in 2019 to address Washington’s long-term care crisis, reducing the burdensome cost of long-term care for hundreds of thousands of Washington families.

    This year, the state House and Senate approved Engrossed Senate Joint Resolution 8212 with overwhelming bipartisan votes of 96-1 and 45-3, respectively. If approved by voters this November, ESJR 8212 would give the Washington State Investment Board more options to responsibly manage Washington's Long-Term Care Trust Fund in order to ensure every elderly Washingtonian can rely on and afford the long-term care services they need, when they need them. 

    By giving the state Investment Board the ability to invest the trust fund, more families in Washington will be able to receive funding for care, with a benefit of up to $36,500 indexed to inflation. The state already invests pensions for frontline workers like teachers, police, and firefighters in this manner, allowing the funds to responsibly grow in value over time. The Long-Term Care Trust is overseen by a trusted, independent commission and will begin paying out benefits in 2025, offering seniors in Washington the care they need.

    Vote to "Approve" ESJR 8212 to make a smart investment in the health of Washingtonians!

    Nearly 70% of adults over the age of 65 will need some level of long-term care, yet 90% are not insured for it. That’s why the Legislature established the Long-Term Care Trust Act in 2019 to address Washington’s long-term care crisis, reducing the burdensome cost of long-term care for hundreds of thousands of Washington families.

    This year, the state House and Senate approved Engrossed Senate Joint Resolution 8212 with overwhelming bipartisan votes of 96-1 and 45-3, respectively. If approved by voters this November, ESJR 8212 would give the Washington State Investment Board more options to responsibly manage Washington's Long-Term Care Trust Fund in order to ensure every elderly Washingtonian can rely on and afford the long-term care services they need, when they need them. 

    By giving the state Investment Board the ability to invest the trust fund, more families in Washington will be able to receive funding for care, with a benefit of up to $36,500 indexed to inflation. The state already invests pensions for frontline workers like teachers, police, and firefighters in this manner, allowing the funds to responsibly grow in value over time. The Long-Term Care Trust is overseen by a trusted, independent commission and will begin paying out benefits in 2025, offering seniors in Washington the care they need.

    Vote to "Approve" ESJR 8212 to make a smart investment in the health of Washingtonians!

    ESJR 8212 Constitutional Amendment

    Nearly 70% of adults over the age of 65 will need some level of long-term care, yet 90% are not insured for it. That’s why the Legislature established the Long-Term Care Trust Act in 2019 to address Washington’s long-term care crisis, reducing the burdensome cost of long-term care for hundreds of thousands of Washington families.

  • Endorsed By SEIU 775, The Stranger
  • Former Vice President Joe Biden has a long track record of public service. He represented Delaware in the U.S. Senate from 1973 to 2009 and then served as President Barack Obama's vice president from 2009 to 2017. His personal history, including losing his eldest son to brain cancer, influenced his agenda and led him to become an advocate for the Affordable Care Act, the signature policy of the Obama administration. 

    After facing numerous progressive challenges in the presidential primary, Biden has shifted his platform to the left for the general election. Some of the hallmark policies of Biden's 2020 platform include supporting a public health care option and raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour, as well as making huge investments in low-income housing assistance and public transit and making community college free. Biden has worked hard with progressive leaders like Sen. Bernie Sanders to unite the Democratic party under what is likely the most progressive party platform in history, though we need to continue pushing him to support bolder proposals like the Green New Deal.

    California Senator Kamala Harris is Biden's vice-presidential running mate on the Democratic ticket. Harris was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 2016 and served as California's attorney general before that. She ran her own campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination this election cycle before ultimately being selected as Biden's running mate in August. Harris made history as both the first Black woman and the first South Asian woman to be nominated for vice president by a major party. As California's first woman attorney general, Harris earned a reputation as a staunch advocate for victims and worked to pass marriage equality as well as protect the Affordable Care Act. In the Senate, Harris has sponsored progressive bills this year such as the Climate Equity Act of 2020, the COVID-19 Racial and Ethnic Disparities Task Force Act of 2020, and the RELIEF Act. Harris also gained notice for her willingness to hold former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions to account during Senate proceedings.

    Biden's opponent is President Donald Trump, a man whose corrupt, lawless, and destructive track record speaks for itself. The damage that Trump and his administration have done to the public and to our democratic systems will take decades to reverse. Some of the worst moments of his presidency include a catastrophic national coronavirus response, separating thousands of children from parents and locking them in cages, eliminating critical environmental protections on our air and water, stripping healthcare protections for millions, and ramming through a dangerous, conservative Supreme Court nominee to rig the nation's highest court in his favor. 

    While there are legitimate concerns about some aspects of Biden's track record, there is no comparison to Trump's attacks on democratic institutions and the rule of law, his dishonesty, his constant assaults on people of color and religious minorities, and his open embrace of white supremacy. Biden is the clear choice for President of the United States.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Joe Biden

    Former Vice President Joe Biden has a long track record of public service. He represented Delaware in the U.S. Senate from 1973 to 2009 and then served as President Barack Obama's vice president from 2009 to 2017.

    Former Vice President Joe Biden has a long track record of public service. He represented Delaware in the U.S. Senate from 1973 to 2009 and then served as President Barack Obama's vice president from 2009 to 2017. His personal history, including losing his eldest son to brain cancer, influenced his agenda and led him to become an advocate for the Affordable Care Act, the signature policy of the Obama administration. 

    After facing numerous progressive challenges in the presidential primary, Biden has shifted his platform to the left for the general election. Some of the hallmark policies of Biden's 2020 platform include supporting a public health care option and raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour, as well as making huge investments in low-income housing assistance and public transit and making community college free. Biden has worked hard with progressive leaders like Sen. Bernie Sanders to unite the Democratic party under what is likely the most progressive party platform in history, though we need to continue pushing him to support bolder proposals like the Green New Deal.

    California Senator Kamala Harris is Biden's vice-presidential running mate on the Democratic ticket. Harris was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 2016 and served as California's attorney general before that. She ran her own campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination this election cycle before ultimately being selected as Biden's running mate in August. Harris made history as both the first Black woman and the first South Asian woman to be nominated for vice president by a major party. As California's first woman attorney general, Harris earned a reputation as a staunch advocate for victims and worked to pass marriage equality as well as protect the Affordable Care Act. In the Senate, Harris has sponsored progressive bills this year such as the Climate Equity Act of 2020, the COVID-19 Racial and Ethnic Disparities Task Force Act of 2020, and the RELIEF Act. Harris also gained notice for her willingness to hold former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions to account during Senate proceedings.

    Biden's opponent is President Donald Trump, a man whose corrupt, lawless, and destructive track record speaks for itself. The damage that Trump and his administration have done to the public and to our democratic systems will take decades to reverse. Some of the worst moments of his presidency include a catastrophic national coronavirus response, separating thousands of children from parents and locking them in cages, eliminating critical environmental protections on our air and water, stripping healthcare protections for millions, and ramming through a dangerous, conservative Supreme Court nominee to rig the nation's highest court in his favor. 

    While there are legitimate concerns about some aspects of Biden's track record, there is no comparison to Trump's attacks on democratic institutions and the rule of law, his dishonesty, his constant assaults on people of color and religious minorities, and his open embrace of white supremacy. Biden is the clear choice for President of the United States.

    Joe Biden

    Former Vice President Joe Biden has a long track record of public service. He represented Delaware in the U.S. Senate from 1973 to 2009 and then served as President Barack Obama's vice president from 2009 to 2017.

  • Democrat Dave Wilson, who previously ran for Congress in 2014 and 2016, is a retired health care administrator who says he aims to push back against Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers' and the Trump administration's mismanagement of the coronavirus pandemic. In the long term, he wants to address income inequality with a $15 minimum wage that’s indexed to inflation, to bolster health care, and to provide a housing first approach to the homelessness crisis that affects thousands across the state. If elected, Wilson plans to join the evenly split bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus to move forward on these priorities.

    Wilson is challenging Republican Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, who continues to be one of the most damaging lawmakers in Washington by voting with President Trump 95 percent of the time. McMorris Rodgers has voted yes on Trump's border wall, supported his trillion-dollar corporate tax cut, and was the only representative from Washington to vote for Trump's bill to cut $800 billion from Medicaid. She voted against raising the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour and has refused on multiple occasions to hold town halls to answer to her constituents for her votes. McMorris Rodgers also refused to hold Trump accountable during impeachment on the charges of obstruction of justice or abuse of power.

    Wilson is the best choice in the race for the 5th Congressional District Representative.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Dave Wilson

    Democrat Dave Wilson, who previously ran for Congress in 2014 and 2016, is a retired health care administrator who says he aims to push back against Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers' and the Trump administration's mismanagement of the coronavirus pandemic.

    Democrat Dave Wilson, who previously ran for Congress in 2014 and 2016, is a retired health care administrator who says he aims to push back against Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers' and the Trump administration's mismanagement of the coronavirus pandemic. In the long term, he wants to address income inequality with a $15 minimum wage that’s indexed to inflation, to bolster health care, and to provide a housing first approach to the homelessness crisis that affects thousands across the state. If elected, Wilson plans to join the evenly split bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus to move forward on these priorities.

    Wilson is challenging Republican Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, who continues to be one of the most damaging lawmakers in Washington by voting with President Trump 95 percent of the time. McMorris Rodgers has voted yes on Trump's border wall, supported his trillion-dollar corporate tax cut, and was the only representative from Washington to vote for Trump's bill to cut $800 billion from Medicaid. She voted against raising the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour and has refused on multiple occasions to hold town halls to answer to her constituents for her votes. McMorris Rodgers also refused to hold Trump accountable during impeachment on the charges of obstruction of justice or abuse of power.

    Wilson is the best choice in the race for the 5th Congressional District Representative.

    Dave Wilson

    Democrat Dave Wilson, who previously ran for Congress in 2014 and 2016, is a retired health care administrator who says he aims to push back against Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers' and the Trump administration's mismanagement of the coronavirus pandemic.

  • Governor Jay Inslee has been a strong, principled leader on the important challenges facing Washington. Before he was elected as governor in 2012, Inslee represented both sides of the Cascades in Congress, opposed the Iraq war, and worked to increase accountability and oversight for Wall Street banks.

    Inslee has established himself as a national leader on fighting climate change. He has invested more than $170 million into clean energy and energy efficiency projects, implemented the Clean Air Rule, and pushed for legislation that reduces pollution in Washington. In his 2020 bid for the presidency, Inslee brought a focus on climate to the race. Outside of his work on climate, Inslee has signed into law Washington's public option for health care, paid family leave, and the Equal Pay Opportunity Act.

    Recently, Inslee has been a national leader in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. His proactive, decisive, science-driven efforts have saved countless Washingtonians from getting sick. Unfortunately, we've seen the flip side recently where states with governors who were slow or failed to act have seen dramatic increases in cases.

    Inslee's opponent is Republican Loren Culp, the sole police officer of the town of Republic and one of the farthest right of Inslee's main primary challengers. Culp came to national fame for refusing to enforce the voter-approved Initiative 1639, which placed restrictions on semi-automatic firearm sales. Much of Culp's primary and early general election campaign has centered on opposing public health measures like wearing masks. 

    Culp's policy track record is disturbing, especially related to the environment. He recently questioned whether the wildfires that have ravaged the region are climate-related. He's compared gun rights to the Holocaust and likened the governor's stay-home policies to the horrors of Japanese internment during WWII. He faces a lawsuit for failing to investigate a child sex abuse case and for intimidating the victim in a case that was swiftly prosecuted after the county stepped in and took over. 

    As the coronavirus crisis continues and the gap in the state budget persists, we need real, experienced leadership at the helm of the state. Inslee is the clear choice for governor.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Jay Inslee

    Governor Jay Inslee has been a strong, principled leader on the important challenges facing Washington.

    Governor Jay Inslee has been a strong, principled leader on the important challenges facing Washington. Before he was elected as governor in 2012, Inslee represented both sides of the Cascades in Congress, opposed the Iraq war, and worked to increase accountability and oversight for Wall Street banks.

    Inslee has established himself as a national leader on fighting climate change. He has invested more than $170 million into clean energy and energy efficiency projects, implemented the Clean Air Rule, and pushed for legislation that reduces pollution in Washington. In his 2020 bid for the presidency, Inslee brought a focus on climate to the race. Outside of his work on climate, Inslee has signed into law Washington's public option for health care, paid family leave, and the Equal Pay Opportunity Act.

    Recently, Inslee has been a national leader in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. His proactive, decisive, science-driven efforts have saved countless Washingtonians from getting sick. Unfortunately, we've seen the flip side recently where states with governors who were slow or failed to act have seen dramatic increases in cases.

    Inslee's opponent is Republican Loren Culp, the sole police officer of the town of Republic and one of the farthest right of Inslee's main primary challengers. Culp came to national fame for refusing to enforce the voter-approved Initiative 1639, which placed restrictions on semi-automatic firearm sales. Much of Culp's primary and early general election campaign has centered on opposing public health measures like wearing masks. 

    Culp's policy track record is disturbing, especially related to the environment. He recently questioned whether the wildfires that have ravaged the region are climate-related. He's compared gun rights to the Holocaust and likened the governor's stay-home policies to the horrors of Japanese internment during WWII. He faces a lawsuit for failing to investigate a child sex abuse case and for intimidating the victim in a case that was swiftly prosecuted after the county stepped in and took over. 

    As the coronavirus crisis continues and the gap in the state budget persists, we need real, experienced leadership at the helm of the state. Inslee is the clear choice for governor.

    Jay Inslee

    Governor Jay Inslee has been a strong, principled leader on the important challenges facing Washington.

  • State Senate Floor Leader Marko Liias was first elected to the Mukilteo City Council in 2005 before being appointed to the state House in 2007 and finally the state Senate in 2014.

    In the Legislature, Liias has been a strong progressive advocate for all families. As the Democratic Senate floor leader, Liias has led the fight on LGBTQ+ equality and created a student loan bill of rights. His past legislation includes a ban on the inhumane practice of conversion therapy. This year, Liias sponsored legislation requiring informed consent to perform a pelvic exam and creating a new state financial aid program for undocumented students.

    In his interview with Fuse, Liias said he would use the bully pulpit of the office to connect with voters across the state about progressive issues, including fixing our upside-down tax code. In addition, he laid out a strong set of proposals for how to increase police accountability. If elected, Liias would be the first openly gay statewide official in Washington history.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Marko Liias

    State Senate Floor Leader Marko Liias was first elected to the Mukilteo City Council in 2005 before being appointed to the state House in 2007 and finally the state Senate in 2014.

    State Senate Floor Leader Marko Liias was first elected to the Mukilteo City Council in 2005 before being appointed to the state House in 2007 and finally the state Senate in 2014.

    In the Legislature, Liias has been a strong progressive advocate for all families. As the Democratic Senate floor leader, Liias has led the fight on LGBTQ+ equality and created a student loan bill of rights. His past legislation includes a ban on the inhumane practice of conversion therapy. This year, Liias sponsored legislation requiring informed consent to perform a pelvic exam and creating a new state financial aid program for undocumented students.

    In his interview with Fuse, Liias said he would use the bully pulpit of the office to connect with voters across the state about progressive issues, including fixing our upside-down tax code. In addition, he laid out a strong set of proposals for how to increase police accountability. If elected, Liias would be the first openly gay statewide official in Washington history.

    Marko Liias

    State Senate Floor Leader Marko Liias was first elected to the Mukilteo City Council in 2005 before being appointed to the state House in 2007 and finally the state Senate in 2014.

  • Rep. Denny Heck is retiring from Congress and running for Lt. Governor. Heck has had a long, effective career in both the private and public sectors, most notably as a five-term state representative, House majority leader, chief of staff to former Gov. Booth Gardner, and TVW co-founder.

    In Congress, Heck has fought to make college more affordable, lower health care costs, ensure veterans get the benefits they deserve, and create middle-class jobs. He supports immigration policies that create a path to citizenship and worked to help prevent health care premium increases due to Trump's policies. Heck was elected to represent the 10th Congressional District after it was created in 2012 and decided to retire after the impeachment hearings in December 2019.

    His top priorities as Lt. Governor would be reforming our regressive tax system, investing in infrastructure like safe roads and bridges to bolster our economy, and helping people "skill up." In his Fuse interview, he expressed support for police reform and wants to expand on the Electeds For Justice pledge to eliminate qualified immunity for police officers. In addition, Heck said he wants to use the office and his extensive experience to lobby moderate senators on progressive issues.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Denny Heck

    Rep. Denny Heck is retiring from Congress and running for Lt. Governor. Heck has had a long, effective career in both the private and public sectors, most notably as a five-term state representative, House majority leader, chief of staff to former Gov. Booth Gardner, and TVW co-founder.

    Rep. Denny Heck is retiring from Congress and running for Lt. Governor. Heck has had a long, effective career in both the private and public sectors, most notably as a five-term state representative, House majority leader, chief of staff to former Gov. Booth Gardner, and TVW co-founder.

    In Congress, Heck has fought to make college more affordable, lower health care costs, ensure veterans get the benefits they deserve, and create middle-class jobs. He supports immigration policies that create a path to citizenship and worked to help prevent health care premium increases due to Trump's policies. Heck was elected to represent the 10th Congressional District after it was created in 2012 and decided to retire after the impeachment hearings in December 2019.

    His top priorities as Lt. Governor would be reforming our regressive tax system, investing in infrastructure like safe roads and bridges to bolster our economy, and helping people "skill up." In his Fuse interview, he expressed support for police reform and wants to expand on the Electeds For Justice pledge to eliminate qualified immunity for police officers. In addition, Heck said he wants to use the office and his extensive experience to lobby moderate senators on progressive issues.

    Denny Heck

    Rep. Denny Heck is retiring from Congress and running for Lt. Governor. Heck has had a long, effective career in both the private and public sectors, most notably as a five-term state representative, House majority leader, chief of staff to former Gov. Booth Gardner, and TVW co-founder.

  • Former Port Commissioner and progressive state Rep. Gael Tarleton is now running for Secretary of State to serve as the state's chief elections officer, among other roles. First elected to the Legislature in 2012, Tarleton has been a strong advocate for environmental causes such as Governor Jay Inslee's initiative to reduce carbon pollution. She sponsored bills during her first term in the House to strengthen the maritime industry, improve access to health care, and ensure gender pay equity.

    Tarleton is running for Secretary of State to expand access to voting in Washington while safeguarding our elections against "foreign and domestic" attacks. She wants to improve digital security and increase funding for county auditors to protect local elections from hacking attempts in the wake of the 2016 election. She would also expand audits of the state and local systems to identify any weaknesses that could be exploited.

    Tarleton is challenging incumbent Republican Secretary of State Kim Wyman, who has faced a bumpy road during her time in office. Last year, Wyman's office released a new $9.5 million voter registration database that was riddled with errors and led to a backlog of tens of thousands of registrations. King County elections director Julie Wise described the release as "irresponsible" and "not even functioning." In addition, Wyman was slow to support the Washington Voting Rights Act, same-day voter registration, and postage-paid ballots.

    We need a progressive leader in the Secretary of State's office who is fully committed to protecting our elections and removing every barrier to participation in our democracy. Tarleton is the clear progressive choice in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Gael Tarleton

    Former Port Commissioner and progressive state Rep. Gael Tarleton is now running for Secretary of State to serve as the state's chief elections officer, among other roles.

    Former Port Commissioner and progressive state Rep. Gael Tarleton is now running for Secretary of State to serve as the state's chief elections officer, among other roles. First elected to the Legislature in 2012, Tarleton has been a strong advocate for environmental causes such as Governor Jay Inslee's initiative to reduce carbon pollution. She sponsored bills during her first term in the House to strengthen the maritime industry, improve access to health care, and ensure gender pay equity.

    Tarleton is running for Secretary of State to expand access to voting in Washington while safeguarding our elections against "foreign and domestic" attacks. She wants to improve digital security and increase funding for county auditors to protect local elections from hacking attempts in the wake of the 2016 election. She would also expand audits of the state and local systems to identify any weaknesses that could be exploited.

    Tarleton is challenging incumbent Republican Secretary of State Kim Wyman, who has faced a bumpy road during her time in office. Last year, Wyman's office released a new $9.5 million voter registration database that was riddled with errors and led to a backlog of tens of thousands of registrations. King County elections director Julie Wise described the release as "irresponsible" and "not even functioning." In addition, Wyman was slow to support the Washington Voting Rights Act, same-day voter registration, and postage-paid ballots.

    We need a progressive leader in the Secretary of State's office who is fully committed to protecting our elections and removing every barrier to participation in our democracy. Tarleton is the clear progressive choice in this race.

    Gael Tarleton

    Former Port Commissioner and progressive state Rep. Gael Tarleton is now running for Secretary of State to serve as the state's chief elections officer, among other roles.

  • Mike Pellicciotti has served in the Washington state House representing the 30th Legislative District since 2016 and is now running for Treasurer. Pellicciotti has never accepted corporate campaign donations and has led efforts to make the Legislature's records open for public view. He also wrote the Corporate Crime Act, which increases financial penalties for corporate crimes by 100 times.

    Pellicciotti is challenging incumbent Republican Duane Davidson. In 2016, incumbent Jim McIntire retired, leaving the seat open. Because of the crowded primary, two Republicans made it through to the general election, giving them control of the treasurer's office for the first time since 1957. Davidson previously served as the Benton County treasurer from 2003 to 2016. In his term, he has been a traditional Republican and has accused the state Legislature of "raiding" the Rainy Day Fund. He has only attended 3 of 18 critical pension meetings since fall 2017.

    Pellicciotti has been a solid legislator and is the best choice in the race for Washington State Treasurer.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Mike Pellicciotti

    Mike Pellicciotti has served in the Washington state House representing the 30th Legislative District since 2016 and is now running for Treasurer. Pellicciotti has never accepted corporate campaign donations and has led efforts to make the Legislature's records open for public view.

    Mike Pellicciotti has served in the Washington state House representing the 30th Legislative District since 2016 and is now running for Treasurer. Pellicciotti has never accepted corporate campaign donations and has led efforts to make the Legislature's records open for public view. He also wrote the Corporate Crime Act, which increases financial penalties for corporate crimes by 100 times.

    Pellicciotti is challenging incumbent Republican Duane Davidson. In 2016, incumbent Jim McIntire retired, leaving the seat open. Because of the crowded primary, two Republicans made it through to the general election, giving them control of the treasurer's office for the first time since 1957. Davidson previously served as the Benton County treasurer from 2003 to 2016. In his term, he has been a traditional Republican and has accused the state Legislature of "raiding" the Rainy Day Fund. He has only attended 3 of 18 critical pension meetings since fall 2017.

    Pellicciotti has been a solid legislator and is the best choice in the race for Washington State Treasurer.

    Mike Pellicciotti

    Mike Pellicciotti has served in the Washington state House representing the 30th Legislative District since 2016 and is now running for Treasurer. Pellicciotti has never accepted corporate campaign donations and has led efforts to make the Legislature's records open for public view.

  • Washington Auditor Pat McCarthy has been a consistent advocate for government transparency and accountability during her first term in office. Previously, she served as Pierce County executive and Pierce County auditor, where she was honored as the 2006 Washington State Auditor of the Year.

    McCarthy announced that her office has opened two independent audits of the Employment Security Department. The first will investigate the delay in unemployment benefits for hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians who lost their jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic. The second audit will look into how criminals stole hundreds of millions of dollars through a sophisticated fraud scheme.

    McCarthy is facing a challenge from Republican Chris Leyba, a detective with limited audit experience related to this role. Leyba has expressed some very conservative viewpoints during the campaign, including opposition to stronger campaign finance laws, disagreeing with basic law enforcement reforms, and supporting Trump's handling of the coronavirus pandemic response.   

    McCarthy's experience and commitment to oversight will be valuable as the state works to emerge from the pandemic and the recession. McCarthy is the best choice in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Pat McCarthy

    Washington Auditor Pat McCarthy has been a consistent advocate for government transparency and accountability during her first term in office. Previously, she served as Pierce County executive and Pierce County auditor, where she was honored as the 2006 Washington State Auditor of the Year.

    Washington Auditor Pat McCarthy has been a consistent advocate for government transparency and accountability during her first term in office. Previously, she served as Pierce County executive and Pierce County auditor, where she was honored as the 2006 Washington State Auditor of the Year.

    McCarthy announced that her office has opened two independent audits of the Employment Security Department. The first will investigate the delay in unemployment benefits for hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians who lost their jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic. The second audit will look into how criminals stole hundreds of millions of dollars through a sophisticated fraud scheme.

    McCarthy is facing a challenge from Republican Chris Leyba, a detective with limited audit experience related to this role. Leyba has expressed some very conservative viewpoints during the campaign, including opposition to stronger campaign finance laws, disagreeing with basic law enforcement reforms, and supporting Trump's handling of the coronavirus pandemic response.   

    McCarthy's experience and commitment to oversight will be valuable as the state works to emerge from the pandemic and the recession. McCarthy is the best choice in this race.

    Pat McCarthy

    Washington Auditor Pat McCarthy has been a consistent advocate for government transparency and accountability during her first term in office. Previously, she served as Pierce County executive and Pierce County auditor, where she was honored as the 2006 Washington State Auditor of the Year.

  • Attorney General Bob Ferguson's accomplishments during his two terms in office are impressive. From delivering millions of dollars back to consumers who were wronged by fraudulent corporations to his ongoing battle with the federal government to clean up the Hanford nuclear waste site to successfully fighting two Tim Eyman initiatives, Ferguson has been a strong and effective advocate for the people of Washington. He has sued the Trump administration 80 times as of late September and won all but one completed case. Some of Ferguson's biggest accomplishments from the past few years include safeguarding consumer medical data, protecting statewide water quality from Trump's erosive environmental policies, and fighting back against the Trump administration's child detention laws.

    Ferguson faces a challenge from Republican attorney Matt Larkin, who is currently the legal counsel for his family's manufacturing business. Larkin worked in the Bush White House on efforts to direct federal funds to religious charities and is an advocate for a traditional Republican platform. Larkin opposes the vast majority of the lawsuits that Ferguson has filed to hold the Trump administration accountable. 

    Ferguson is the clear progressive choice for Attorney General of Washington.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Bob Ferguson

    Attorney General Bob Ferguson's accomplishments during his two terms in office are impressive.

    Attorney General Bob Ferguson's accomplishments during his two terms in office are impressive. From delivering millions of dollars back to consumers who were wronged by fraudulent corporations to his ongoing battle with the federal government to clean up the Hanford nuclear waste site to successfully fighting two Tim Eyman initiatives, Ferguson has been a strong and effective advocate for the people of Washington. He has sued the Trump administration 80 times as of late September and won all but one completed case. Some of Ferguson's biggest accomplishments from the past few years include safeguarding consumer medical data, protecting statewide water quality from Trump's erosive environmental policies, and fighting back against the Trump administration's child detention laws.

    Ferguson faces a challenge from Republican attorney Matt Larkin, who is currently the legal counsel for his family's manufacturing business. Larkin worked in the Bush White House on efforts to direct federal funds to religious charities and is an advocate for a traditional Republican platform. Larkin opposes the vast majority of the lawsuits that Ferguson has filed to hold the Trump administration accountable. 

    Ferguson is the clear progressive choice for Attorney General of Washington.

    Bob Ferguson

    Attorney General Bob Ferguson's accomplishments during his two terms in office are impressive.

  • Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz has been a proactive force for protecting our communities from climate change. As the head of the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR), she has focused on protecting public lands, wildfire management, and climate action.

    This year, Franz released a climate resiliency plan for rural Washington that includes massive reforestation as well as expanding wind and solar farms. Given the statewide threat and impact of wildfires with recent record-setting fire seasons, she has also worked on a 20-year forest health plan and a 10-year fire protection plan.

    Franz's opponent is fisheries researcher Sue Kuehl Pederson, the former chair of the Grays Harbor Republican Party. Kuehl Pederson is running on a conservative platform that focuses on significantly increasing logging of state forests and rolling back protections for endangered species. In recent interviews, Kuehl Pederson also downplayed the importance of climate change in exacerbating this fall’s forest fires. 

    Franz has the experience we need to guide and protect our state from increasingly dangerous fire seasons and the rising threat of climate inaction. Vote Franz for Commissioner of Public Lands.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Hilary Franz

    Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz has been a proactive force for protecting our communities from climate change. As the head of the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR), she has focused on protecting public lands, wildfire management, and climate action.

    Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz has been a proactive force for protecting our communities from climate change. As the head of the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR), she has focused on protecting public lands, wildfire management, and climate action.

    This year, Franz released a climate resiliency plan for rural Washington that includes massive reforestation as well as expanding wind and solar farms. Given the statewide threat and impact of wildfires with recent record-setting fire seasons, she has also worked on a 20-year forest health plan and a 10-year fire protection plan.

    Franz's opponent is fisheries researcher Sue Kuehl Pederson, the former chair of the Grays Harbor Republican Party. Kuehl Pederson is running on a conservative platform that focuses on significantly increasing logging of state forests and rolling back protections for endangered species. In recent interviews, Kuehl Pederson also downplayed the importance of climate change in exacerbating this fall’s forest fires. 

    Franz has the experience we need to guide and protect our state from increasingly dangerous fire seasons and the rising threat of climate inaction. Vote Franz for Commissioner of Public Lands.

    Hilary Franz

    Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz has been a proactive force for protecting our communities from climate change. As the head of the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR), she has focused on protecting public lands, wildfire management, and climate action.

  • Chris Reykdal is running for re-election to the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to continue his leadership of our state's public schools through this challenging time. Previously, Reykdal spent 14 years serving on local school boards and in leadership positions at community and technical colleges, as well as serving 6 years in the Legislature. In the state House, Reykdal had a strong progressive voting record and was a consistent champion for public schools.

    In his first term as superintendent, Reykdal has pushed the Legislature to fully fund K-12 education, increase teacher pay, and close the opportunity gap for students of color. More recently, Reykdal has worked closely with Gov. Inslee to help Washington schools navigate the pandemic. He made the tough decision early to close schools for the year in order to keep kids and families safe and to slow the spread of COVID-19. If re-elected, Reykdal will continue to advocate for these priorities and work with schools across the state as they make the transition back to in-person education.

    Reykdal is facing former Republican legislative candidate Maia Espinoza. Espinoza is a school music teacher and a former legislative liaison to the Governor’s Commission on Hispanic Affairs. She was motivated to run by her opposition to comprehensive sexual health education and gained attention by publishing a false and inflammatory voters' pamphlet statement attacking Reykdal. In addition, an Associated Press investigation found that Espinoza provided false or misleading descriptions of her own education and the organization she leads. As of mid-September, Espinoza is also dangerously pushing for classrooms to re-open fully for in-person learning, despite mass outbreaks at schools and universities across the country.

    Reykdal is the clear choice for Superintendent of Public Instruction.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Chris Reykdal

    Chris Reykdal is running for re-election to the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to continue his leadership of our state's public schools through this challenging time.

    Chris Reykdal is running for re-election to the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to continue his leadership of our state's public schools through this challenging time. Previously, Reykdal spent 14 years serving on local school boards and in leadership positions at community and technical colleges, as well as serving 6 years in the Legislature. In the state House, Reykdal had a strong progressive voting record and was a consistent champion for public schools.

    In his first term as superintendent, Reykdal has pushed the Legislature to fully fund K-12 education, increase teacher pay, and close the opportunity gap for students of color. More recently, Reykdal has worked closely with Gov. Inslee to help Washington schools navigate the pandemic. He made the tough decision early to close schools for the year in order to keep kids and families safe and to slow the spread of COVID-19. If re-elected, Reykdal will continue to advocate for these priorities and work with schools across the state as they make the transition back to in-person education.

    Reykdal is facing former Republican legislative candidate Maia Espinoza. Espinoza is a school music teacher and a former legislative liaison to the Governor’s Commission on Hispanic Affairs. She was motivated to run by her opposition to comprehensive sexual health education and gained attention by publishing a false and inflammatory voters' pamphlet statement attacking Reykdal. In addition, an Associated Press investigation found that Espinoza provided false or misleading descriptions of her own education and the organization she leads. As of mid-September, Espinoza is also dangerously pushing for classrooms to re-open fully for in-person learning, despite mass outbreaks at schools and universities across the country.

    Reykdal is the clear choice for Superintendent of Public Instruction.

    Chris Reykdal

    Chris Reykdal is running for re-election to the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to continue his leadership of our state's public schools through this challenging time.

  • Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler has spent his entire career serving the people of Washington. Prior to running for statewide office, Kreidler was a doctor of optometry, a state legislator, and a member of Congress.

    As insurance commissioner, Kreidler has been a consistent advocate for consumers and patients in overseeing insurance companies in Washington. Kreidler set up one of the first and most effective Affordable Care Act exchanges in the country, helping expand access to health care for hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians. More recently, Kreidler moved quickly to issue an emergency order requiring insurance companies to waive copays, coinsurance, and deductibles for COVID-19 testing and office visits. In addition, he forced insurance companies to allow consumers to access other health providers if they did not have an in-network option for testing.

    Kreidler is opposed by Republican Chirayu Avinash Patel, an insurance agent and biochemistry student at the University of Washington. He states that he wants to model the office of the insurance commissioner based on a hybrid of the Ronald Reagan and Thomas Jefferson administrations. Patel has no campaign website and does not appear to be running a credible bid for office.

    Kreidler has earned your vote for re-election to the Office of the Insurance Commissioner.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Mike Kreidler

    Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler has spent his entire career serving the people of Washington. Prior to running for statewide office, Kreidler was a doctor of optometry, a state legislator, and a member of Congress.

    Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler has spent his entire career serving the people of Washington. Prior to running for statewide office, Kreidler was a doctor of optometry, a state legislator, and a member of Congress.

    As insurance commissioner, Kreidler has been a consistent advocate for consumers and patients in overseeing insurance companies in Washington. Kreidler set up one of the first and most effective Affordable Care Act exchanges in the country, helping expand access to health care for hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians. More recently, Kreidler moved quickly to issue an emergency order requiring insurance companies to waive copays, coinsurance, and deductibles for COVID-19 testing and office visits. In addition, he forced insurance companies to allow consumers to access other health providers if they did not have an in-network option for testing.

    Kreidler is opposed by Republican Chirayu Avinash Patel, an insurance agent and biochemistry student at the University of Washington. He states that he wants to model the office of the insurance commissioner based on a hybrid of the Ronald Reagan and Thomas Jefferson administrations. Patel has no campaign website and does not appear to be running a credible bid for office.

    Kreidler has earned your vote for re-election to the Office of the Insurance Commissioner.

    Mike Kreidler

    Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler has spent his entire career serving the people of Washington. Prior to running for statewide office, Kreidler was a doctor of optometry, a state legislator, and a member of Congress.

Legislative Races

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below legislative races on your ballot.

  • Evergreen Future
  • Senate Majority Leader Andy Billig is a strong leader and progressive champion who has broad support from the Spokane community in his re-election campaign.

    Billig has worked hard for his district. He helped pass a transportation bill that created 43,000 jobs and worked to reduce pollution in the Spokane River. He's also been a strong advocate for high-quality early learning programs and better campaign finance reform to increase transparency in government, including two bills he passed to make elections fairer in our state. If re-elected, Billig will continue to work on progressive revenue that flips Washington's upside-down tax code, support a balanced economic recovery for everyone, make additional investments in education, and continue to foster a healthy economy.

    His opponent in this race is Republican and Marine veteran Dave Lucas. Lucas irresponsibly wants to cut taxes when the state already faces a historic multi-billion dollar budget deficit, which would threaten funding for education, health care, and affordable housing. He also states that he would push back on taxes for polluters and reduce regulations on businesses.

    Fuse members who interviewed Billig appreciated his proactiveness on policy and responsiveness to constituents, two positive qualities that are reflected in Billig's wide support from progressive partners. Billig has earned your vote for re-election to the state Senate.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Andy Billig

    Senate Majority Leader Andy Billig is a strong leader and progressive champion who has broad support from the Spokane community in his re-election campaign.

    Senate Majority Leader Andy Billig is a strong leader and progressive champion who has broad support from the Spokane community in his re-election campaign.

    Billig has worked hard for his district. He helped pass a transportation bill that created 43,000 jobs and worked to reduce pollution in the Spokane River. He's also been a strong advocate for high-quality early learning programs and better campaign finance reform to increase transparency in government, including two bills he passed to make elections fairer in our state. If re-elected, Billig will continue to work on progressive revenue that flips Washington's upside-down tax code, support a balanced economic recovery for everyone, make additional investments in education, and continue to foster a healthy economy.

    His opponent in this race is Republican and Marine veteran Dave Lucas. Lucas irresponsibly wants to cut taxes when the state already faces a historic multi-billion dollar budget deficit, which would threaten funding for education, health care, and affordable housing. He also states that he would push back on taxes for polluters and reduce regulations on businesses.

    Fuse members who interviewed Billig appreciated his proactiveness on policy and responsiveness to constituents, two positive qualities that are reflected in Billig's wide support from progressive partners. Billig has earned your vote for re-election to the state Senate.

    Andy Billig

    Senate Majority Leader Andy Billig is a strong leader and progressive champion who has broad support from the Spokane community in his re-election campaign.

  • Rep. Marcus Riccelli is running for re-election to his seat in the 3rd Legislative District. Prior to joining the Legislature, Riccelli served as U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell's Eastern Washington Director and as former state Senator Lisa Brown's senior policy aide.

    During his time in the Legislature, Riccelli has worked on community hunger and food insecurity issues through the Community Eligibility Program (CEP), a federal program that reimburses schools for student meals. This March, he spearheaded the efforts of the Spokane Food Fighters in donating hundreds of meals to those in need. Riccelli also sponsored the Hunger-Free Schools Act, which provides a bridge of federal funding for free breakfast to schools where nearly half of students' families are using public assistance. If re-elected, Riccelli will continue to prioritize working on community hunger, education, environmental protection, and workplace training.

    His challenger, Republican Laura Carder, previously ran against Rep. Timm Ormsby in 2016. The Spokane Spokesman-Review notes that in the past Carder expressed support for teaching creationism in schools and said she believed that the discrimination case brought against the Richland florist who refused to sell flowers to a gay couple was "unfair." Though she has no 2020 website nor a detailed campaign platform available, her official voters guide statement doubles-down on her anti-choice, anti-union sentiments.

    Riccelli is the clear choice in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Marcus Riccelli

    Rep. Marcus Riccelli is running for re-election to his seat in the 3rd Legislative District. Prior to joining the Legislature, Riccelli served as U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell's Eastern Washington Director and as former state Senator Lisa Brown's senior policy aide.

    Rep. Marcus Riccelli is running for re-election to his seat in the 3rd Legislative District. Prior to joining the Legislature, Riccelli served as U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell's Eastern Washington Director and as former state Senator Lisa Brown's senior policy aide.

    During his time in the Legislature, Riccelli has worked on community hunger and food insecurity issues through the Community Eligibility Program (CEP), a federal program that reimburses schools for student meals. This March, he spearheaded the efforts of the Spokane Food Fighters in donating hundreds of meals to those in need. Riccelli also sponsored the Hunger-Free Schools Act, which provides a bridge of federal funding for free breakfast to schools where nearly half of students' families are using public assistance. If re-elected, Riccelli will continue to prioritize working on community hunger, education, environmental protection, and workplace training.

    His challenger, Republican Laura Carder, previously ran against Rep. Timm Ormsby in 2016. The Spokane Spokesman-Review notes that in the past Carder expressed support for teaching creationism in schools and said she believed that the discrimination case brought against the Richland florist who refused to sell flowers to a gay couple was "unfair." Though she has no 2020 website nor a detailed campaign platform available, her official voters guide statement doubles-down on her anti-choice, anti-union sentiments.

    Riccelli is the clear choice in this race.

    Marcus Riccelli

    Rep. Marcus Riccelli is running for re-election to his seat in the 3rd Legislative District. Prior to joining the Legislature, Riccelli served as U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell's Eastern Washington Director and as former state Senator Lisa Brown's senior policy aide.

  • Rep. Timm Ormsby is a progressive champion and an active member of the Spokane community. He is the current president of the Spokane Regional Labor Council and a board member of the United Way of Spokane County. In past sessions, Ormsby helped write and pass bills to protect the environment and preserve critical health care services. This year, Ormsby supported some of the state's most vulnerable residents by being the prime sponsor on a bill for permanent affordable housing. He also recently sponsored additional bills on equitable educational outcomes for homeless youth and for community solar projects.

    Ormsby is running against former Spokane City Councilmember Bob Apple, who was a Democrat on the council but switched to being a Republican. In a community interview, Apple stated he's running to push back against the idea of a state income tax, regulations on businesses, and additional bureaucracy.

    Ormsby is the clear progressive choice in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Timm Ormsby

    Rep. Timm Ormsby is a progressive champion and an active member of the Spokane community. He is the current president of the Spokane Regional Labor Council and a board member of the United Way of Spokane County.

    Rep. Timm Ormsby is a progressive champion and an active member of the Spokane community. He is the current president of the Spokane Regional Labor Council and a board member of the United Way of Spokane County. In past sessions, Ormsby helped write and pass bills to protect the environment and preserve critical health care services. This year, Ormsby supported some of the state's most vulnerable residents by being the prime sponsor on a bill for permanent affordable housing. He also recently sponsored additional bills on equitable educational outcomes for homeless youth and for community solar projects.

    Ormsby is running against former Spokane City Councilmember Bob Apple, who was a Democrat on the council but switched to being a Republican. In a community interview, Apple stated he's running to push back against the idea of a state income tax, regulations on businesses, and additional bureaucracy.

    Ormsby is the clear progressive choice in this race.

    Timm Ormsby

    Rep. Timm Ormsby is a progressive champion and an active member of the Spokane community. He is the current president of the Spokane Regional Labor Council and a board member of the United Way of Spokane County.

  • John Roskelley is a former two-term Spokane County Commissioner who is now running for state Senate. He is positioning himself as a moderate Democrat who will focus on senior and disability issues in the Legislature, including health care and requirements for senior living establishments. He is, however, unwilling to support the Working Families Tax Credit, citing the rapidly growing budget deficit.

    Roskelley is running against incumbent Republican Mike Padden, who has stood firmly against progressive values in his time in the Legislature. He is one of few Republicans who voted against the race-based hair discrimination bill that passed this session, and he also opposed protections for undocumented workers that would restrict federal officers from arresting them around courthouses.

    Roskelley is the best choice for state Senate in the 4th Legislative District.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    John Roskelley

    John Roskelley is a former two-term Spokane County Commissioner who is now running for state Senate. He is positioning himself as a moderate Democrat who will focus on senior and disability issues in the Legislature, including health care and requirements for senior living establishments.

    John Roskelley is a former two-term Spokane County Commissioner who is now running for state Senate. He is positioning himself as a moderate Democrat who will focus on senior and disability issues in the Legislature, including health care and requirements for senior living establishments. He is, however, unwilling to support the Working Families Tax Credit, citing the rapidly growing budget deficit.

    Roskelley is running against incumbent Republican Mike Padden, who has stood firmly against progressive values in his time in the Legislature. He is one of few Republicans who voted against the race-based hair discrimination bill that passed this session, and he also opposed protections for undocumented workers that would restrict federal officers from arresting them around courthouses.

    Roskelley is the best choice for state Senate in the 4th Legislative District.

    John Roskelley

    John Roskelley is a former two-term Spokane County Commissioner who is now running for state Senate. He is positioning himself as a moderate Democrat who will focus on senior and disability issues in the Legislature, including health care and requirements for senior living establishments.

  • Evergreen Future
  • Nurse practitioner Lori Feagan is running to bring progressive values to Olympia from the 4th Legislative District. One of her top priorities is improving health care, including lowering the cost of prescription drugs and holding price-gougers accountable when it comes to vital medications like insulin. As the state faces budget shortfalls due to the pandemic, Feagan promises to prioritize improvements like the Henry Road overpass and road separation projects.

    Feagan is running against incumbent Republican Bob McCaslin. He has voted against a slew of progressive reforms and is one of most far-right members of the Legislature. Along with Rep. Matt Shea, McCaslin has supported splitting Washington into two states to create a new conservative state called "Liberty."

    The local Fuse interview committee was extremely impressed with Feagan's determination to improve health care access, ensure living wages, and be a progressive force in Olympia. The range of endorsements for Feagan from our partners and from elected officials reflects her potential to bring people together for change. Feagan is the best choice in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Lori Feagan

    Nurse practitioner Lori Feagan is running to bring progressive values to Olympia from the 4th Legislative District.

    Nurse practitioner Lori Feagan is running to bring progressive values to Olympia from the 4th Legislative District. One of her top priorities is improving health care, including lowering the cost of prescription drugs and holding price-gougers accountable when it comes to vital medications like insulin. As the state faces budget shortfalls due to the pandemic, Feagan promises to prioritize improvements like the Henry Road overpass and road separation projects.

    Feagan is running against incumbent Republican Bob McCaslin. He has voted against a slew of progressive reforms and is one of most far-right members of the Legislature. Along with Rep. Matt Shea, McCaslin has supported splitting Washington into two states to create a new conservative state called "Liberty."

    The local Fuse interview committee was extremely impressed with Feagan's determination to improve health care access, ensure living wages, and be a progressive force in Olympia. The range of endorsements for Feagan from our partners and from elected officials reflects her potential to bring people together for change. Feagan is the best choice in this race.

    Lori Feagan

    Nurse practitioner Lori Feagan is running to bring progressive values to Olympia from the 4th Legislative District.

  • Accountant Lance Gurel is running for the 4th Legislative District, House Position 2 to bring progressive leadership back to the district for the first time in decades. In his interview with the local Fuse endorsement committee, Gurel said that he would support undocumented workers, many of whom have been deemed essential workers during this pandemic, with an emergency aid fund. He supports tax reform like the Working Families Tax Credit that would put money back in the pockets of Washingtonians with low and moderate incomes. Gurel also expressed support for affordable child care, mental health programs that divert people from the prison pipeline, and investments in clean fuels.

    Gurel's opponent is Republican Rob Chase. Chase, who calls himself a Trump Republican, is running on the so-called "MAGA Doctrine" of "following the Constitution and shrinking government." Notably, he is supported by Rep. Matt Shea, who was ousted from the Republican caucus after an investigation deemed him a domestic terrorist.

    The 4th LD deserves better than another Shea. Vote Lance Gurel for state House.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Lance Gurel

    Accountant Lance Gurel is running for the 4th Legislative District, House Position 2 to bring progressive leadership back to the district for the first time in decades.

    Accountant Lance Gurel is running for the 4th Legislative District, House Position 2 to bring progressive leadership back to the district for the first time in decades. In his interview with the local Fuse endorsement committee, Gurel said that he would support undocumented workers, many of whom have been deemed essential workers during this pandemic, with an emergency aid fund. He supports tax reform like the Working Families Tax Credit that would put money back in the pockets of Washingtonians with low and moderate incomes. Gurel also expressed support for affordable child care, mental health programs that divert people from the prison pipeline, and investments in clean fuels.

    Gurel's opponent is Republican Rob Chase. Chase, who calls himself a Trump Republican, is running on the so-called "MAGA Doctrine" of "following the Constitution and shrinking government." Notably, he is supported by Rep. Matt Shea, who was ousted from the Republican caucus after an investigation deemed him a domestic terrorist.

    The 4th LD deserves better than another Shea. Vote Lance Gurel for state House.

    Lance Gurel

    Accountant Lance Gurel is running for the 4th Legislative District, House Position 2 to bring progressive leadership back to the district for the first time in decades.

  • Zack Zappone is challenging incumbent Republican Rep. Mike Volz for the 6th Legislative District, House Position 1. As a former teacher and creator of after school programs, Zappone's top priorities include ensuring that everyone has the training they need to enter the workforce, a housing-first approach to homelessness, worker protections, and creating a more equitable tax system for lower-income residents. He highlights his experience in logistics through his volunteer work with the Spokane Food Fighters, who are delivering meals during the coronavirus crisis.

    Republican Volz voted against a bill that aimed to create an office of gun violence prevention and opposed adding immigration status to the state's anti-discrimination laws. If re-elected, Volz promises to "get our state government back to living within its means," which considering next year's coronavirus-caused state budget shortfall of $6 billion, could have devastating consequences for the services many in the district and across the state are relying on.

    In his interview, Zappone impressed the Fuse local council with his strong progressive values and equitable platform. Zappone is the best choice in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Zack Zappone

    Zack Zappone is challenging incumbent Republican Rep. Mike Volz for the 6th Legislative District, House Position 1.

    Zack Zappone is challenging incumbent Republican Rep. Mike Volz for the 6th Legislative District, House Position 1. As a former teacher and creator of after school programs, Zappone's top priorities include ensuring that everyone has the training they need to enter the workforce, a housing-first approach to homelessness, worker protections, and creating a more equitable tax system for lower-income residents. He highlights his experience in logistics through his volunteer work with the Spokane Food Fighters, who are delivering meals during the coronavirus crisis.

    Republican Volz voted against a bill that aimed to create an office of gun violence prevention and opposed adding immigration status to the state's anti-discrimination laws. If re-elected, Volz promises to "get our state government back to living within its means," which considering next year's coronavirus-caused state budget shortfall of $6 billion, could have devastating consequences for the services many in the district and across the state are relying on.

    In his interview, Zappone impressed the Fuse local council with his strong progressive values and equitable platform. Zappone is the best choice in this race.

    Zack Zappone

    Zack Zappone is challenging incumbent Republican Rep. Mike Volz for the 6th Legislative District, House Position 1.

  • Fire commissioner and housing attorney Tom McGarry is challenging incumbent Jenny Graham for House Position 2 in the 6th Legislative District. In addition to his role as fire commissioner, McGarry serves as board chair for the Spokane County Fire Commissioner’s Association. McGarry is determined to avoid any coronavirus-caused state budget cuts for those who are least economically equipped to handle them. If elected, he states he will bring a workers-first agenda to Olympia with a lens for racial justice. Some of his policy priorities include increasing affordable housing, increasing benefits for workers, and developing a careful and data-driven economic reopening.

    McGarry is running against incumbent Republican Jenny Graham. In addition to conservative votes in Olympia against reducing greenhouse gas emissions, establishing a state Office of Equity, and capping insulin costs for diabetics, Graham's coronavirus response has been terrible. Facebook flagged one of her posts as untrue after she questioned vaccine science. Graham has also promoted disturbing conspiracy theories on her Facebook. Her offline coronavirus response has been equally unimpressive. The representative protested the early release of non-violent prisoners who were within 18 months of their scheduled release even with the knowledge that the coronavirus was primed to sweep through jails, threatening thousands of guards, prisoners, and staff.

    The residents of the 6th Legislative District deserve better than far-right conspiracy theories from their representatives. Vote McGarry for proven, progressive leadership.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Tom McGarry

    Fire commissioner and housing attorney Tom McGarry is challenging incumbent Jenny Graham for House Position 2 in the 6th Legislative District. In addition to his role as fire commissioner, McGarry serves as board chair for the Spokane County Fire Commissioner’s Association.

    Fire commissioner and housing attorney Tom McGarry is challenging incumbent Jenny Graham for House Position 2 in the 6th Legislative District. In addition to his role as fire commissioner, McGarry serves as board chair for the Spokane County Fire Commissioner’s Association. McGarry is determined to avoid any coronavirus-caused state budget cuts for those who are least economically equipped to handle them. If elected, he states he will bring a workers-first agenda to Olympia with a lens for racial justice. Some of his policy priorities include increasing affordable housing, increasing benefits for workers, and developing a careful and data-driven economic reopening.

    McGarry is running against incumbent Republican Jenny Graham. In addition to conservative votes in Olympia against reducing greenhouse gas emissions, establishing a state Office of Equity, and capping insulin costs for diabetics, Graham's coronavirus response has been terrible. Facebook flagged one of her posts as untrue after she questioned vaccine science. Graham has also promoted disturbing conspiracy theories on her Facebook. Her offline coronavirus response has been equally unimpressive. The representative protested the early release of non-violent prisoners who were within 18 months of their scheduled release even with the knowledge that the coronavirus was primed to sweep through jails, threatening thousands of guards, prisoners, and staff.

    The residents of the 6th Legislative District deserve better than far-right conspiracy theories from their representatives. Vote McGarry for proven, progressive leadership.

    Tom McGarry

    Fire commissioner and housing attorney Tom McGarry is challenging incumbent Jenny Graham for House Position 2 in the 6th Legislative District. In addition to his role as fire commissioner, McGarry serves as board chair for the Spokane County Fire Commissioner’s Association.

  • Georgia Davenport is the founder and current field director of Whole Washington, a coalition of activists and health care professionals pushing for single-payer, universal healthcare in Washington. Davenport notes that in rural areas of the 7th Legislative District, hospitals have been leaving and private insurers continue to increase prices. Her top priority as a legislator would be to pass the Whole Washington Healthcare Trust legislation, ensuring that residents have stable, accessible health care available to them.

    Davenport is challenging Republican incumbent Rep. Jacquelin Maycumber. Maycumber spent the most recent legislative session fighting against a low-carbon fuel standard that would have required that refineries supply cleaner fuel over time, creating healthier air for all of us. Maycumber pushed for $30 car tabs, despite the fact that the policy would slash $2.5 million a year in Spokane-area infrastructure repair and pothole maintenance. She's also a historically bad vote on reproductive rights, with an F from NARAL Pro-Choice Washington.

    Davenport is the best choice in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Georgia Davenport

    Georgia Davenport is the founder and current field director of Whole Washington, a coalition of activists and health care professionals pushing for single-payer, universal healthcare in Washington.

    Georgia Davenport is the founder and current field director of Whole Washington, a coalition of activists and health care professionals pushing for single-payer, universal healthcare in Washington. Davenport notes that in rural areas of the 7th Legislative District, hospitals have been leaving and private insurers continue to increase prices. Her top priority as a legislator would be to pass the Whole Washington Healthcare Trust legislation, ensuring that residents have stable, accessible health care available to them.

    Davenport is challenging Republican incumbent Rep. Jacquelin Maycumber. Maycumber spent the most recent legislative session fighting against a low-carbon fuel standard that would have required that refineries supply cleaner fuel over time, creating healthier air for all of us. Maycumber pushed for $30 car tabs, despite the fact that the policy would slash $2.5 million a year in Spokane-area infrastructure repair and pothole maintenance. She's also a historically bad vote on reproductive rights, with an F from NARAL Pro-Choice Washington.

    Davenport is the best choice in this race.

    Georgia Davenport

    Georgia Davenport is the founder and current field director of Whole Washington, a coalition of activists and health care professionals pushing for single-payer, universal healthcare in Washington.

  • Endorsed By: Spokane Regional Labor Council, AFL-CIO
  • Restaurant owner JJ Wandler is running as an Independent against Republican Rep. Joel Kretz. His priorities include establishing a state bank as well as helping the community push through the current economic and health struggles caused by the coronavirus pandemic, though he doesn't have any policy proposals available for the latter issues.

    Incumbent Kretz has an atrocious record on civil rights. He voted no on this year's bill to establish a statewide equity office and was one of the few representatives to vote against a ban against race-based hair discrimination. Kretz has also been problematic on environmental conservation and land issues. While not progressive, Wandler is the better choice in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    JJ Wandler

    Restaurant owner JJ Wandler is running as an Independent against Republican Rep. Joel Kretz.

    Restaurant owner JJ Wandler is running as an Independent against Republican Rep. Joel Kretz. His priorities include establishing a state bank as well as helping the community push through the current economic and health struggles caused by the coronavirus pandemic, though he doesn't have any policy proposals available for the latter issues.

    Incumbent Kretz has an atrocious record on civil rights. He voted no on this year's bill to establish a statewide equity office and was one of the few representatives to vote against a ban against race-based hair discrimination. Kretz has also been problematic on environmental conservation and land issues. While not progressive, Wandler is the better choice in this race.

    JJ Wandler

    Restaurant owner JJ Wandler is running as an Independent against Republican Rep. Joel Kretz.

No Good Choices

There are no good choices in this race.

Incumbent and Senate Minority Leader Mark Schoesler's voting record and actions during the coronavirus crisis have put him squarely against the interests of working families. He pushed back against Gov. Inslee's life-saving extensions of coronavirus shelter-in-place and even refused to extend the governor's emergency order on domestic violence protective orders during the pandemic. His refusal to do the latter, which stands against even the advice of prosecutors and sheriffs, potentially put thousands of domestic violence victims at risk.

Unfortunately, his opponent in this race, Pasco progressive Jenn Goulet, dropped out in early September to move across the country for family reasons. Her late exit in this race means her name will remain on the ballot.

Write in a candidate of your choice.

No Good Choices

There are no good choices in this race as Libertarian Brett Borden is challenging incumbent Republican Rep. Mary Dye. Borden works in manufacturing and states that he joined the Libertarian Party in 2016 to support presidential candidate Gary Johnson. While it's laudable that Borden is protesting against mass incarceration and for bail reform, his platform is also anti-regulation in a way that ignores the needs of working people, students, and seniors.

Dye is a social conservative who is most well known for asking visiting teens lobbying for Planned Parenthood if they were virgins. In 2018, Dye was also one of the few House Republicans to vote against a measure that would provide breakfast to hungry school children. Throughout her time in Olympia, Dye has shown that she lacks the willingness to build bridges across the aisle on important social issues.

Write in a candidate of your choice.

Mary Dye

There are no good choices in this race as Libertarian Brett Borden is challenging incumbent Republican Rep. Mary Dye. Borden works in manufacturing and states that he joined the Libertarian Party in 2016 to support presidential candidate Gary Johnson.

No Good Choices

There are no good choices in this race as Republican incumbent Rep. Joe Schmick is running unopposed for this position. Schmick rarely faces challenges to his seat, which is unfortunate because he often votes against progressive bills such as an expansion of solar energy projects available to renters and a bill to increase racial equity in the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program.

Write in a candidate of your choice.

Joe Schmick

There are no good choices in this race as Republican incumbent Rep. Joe Schmick is running unopposed for this position.

County Commission

Depending on where you live, you may have the below county races on your ballot.

  • Union leader and Democrat Ted Cummings has worked at Kaiser Aluminum for many years. He serves as a board member of the Spokane Regional Labor Council as well as the district vice president of the Washington State Labor Council. Cummings is running to prioritize transparency and accountability in county government. Unlike some county officials, Cummings does not support building a new jail, and would rather the county put its efforts and budget towards affordable housing, diversion programs with appropriate health services, and natural assets like parks.

    Cummings is running against Josh Kerns, one of the most conservative commissioners, who says his involvement with the Republican party "runs deep." Kerns states that "taxes should be the last resort," while simultaneously promising to keep roads well-maintained. Unfortunately, his math doesn't add up. As the coronavirus continues to deal a huge blow to state and local budgets, elected officials must either cut social services, infrastructure, and other necessities or make corporations and the wealthy finally pay their share. In the last few weeks of August, leaders of local organizations of color such as the NAACP called out the commission on watering down the county's set of guiding principles that would consider race, gender, and other identifiers in making criminal justice decisions.

    Spokane needs a county commissioner who, especially in this massive health crisis, is looking out for people, not just the bottom line. Cummings is by far the better choice in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Ted Cummings

    Union leader and Democrat Ted Cummings has worked at Kaiser Aluminum for many years. He serves as a board member of the Spokane Regional Labor Council as well as the district vice president of the Washington State Labor Council.

    Union leader and Democrat Ted Cummings has worked at Kaiser Aluminum for many years. He serves as a board member of the Spokane Regional Labor Council as well as the district vice president of the Washington State Labor Council. Cummings is running to prioritize transparency and accountability in county government. Unlike some county officials, Cummings does not support building a new jail, and would rather the county put its efforts and budget towards affordable housing, diversion programs with appropriate health services, and natural assets like parks.

    Cummings is running against Josh Kerns, one of the most conservative commissioners, who says his involvement with the Republican party "runs deep." Kerns states that "taxes should be the last resort," while simultaneously promising to keep roads well-maintained. Unfortunately, his math doesn't add up. As the coronavirus continues to deal a huge blow to state and local budgets, elected officials must either cut social services, infrastructure, and other necessities or make corporations and the wealthy finally pay their share. In the last few weeks of August, leaders of local organizations of color such as the NAACP called out the commission on watering down the county's set of guiding principles that would consider race, gender, and other identifiers in making criminal justice decisions.

    Spokane needs a county commissioner who, especially in this massive health crisis, is looking out for people, not just the bottom line. Cummings is by far the better choice in this race.

    Ted Cummings

    Union leader and Democrat Ted Cummings has worked at Kaiser Aluminum for many years. He serves as a board member of the Spokane Regional Labor Council as well as the district vice president of the Washington State Labor Council.

  • Endorsed By: Fuse
  • Accounting business owner David Green is a longtime Democratic Party activist who currently serves as chair of the 3rd Legislative District Democrats and vice-chair of the Washington State Democratic Party. Green is committed to working with local allies to understand and address systemic racism in Spokane County's criminal justice system and wants to consider alternative approaches to incarceration. He supports a closer relationship between the county and cities to minimize urban sprawl, and he wants to address the housing crisis at the regional level.

    Green is running against incumbent Mary Kuney, a moderate Republican who was appointed to the commission by Governor Jay Inslee in September of 2017. Kuney is a certified public accountant and the former Chief Deputy Auditor for Spokane County. While Kuney has worked across county departments to streamline budgets and improve efficiencies, she does not have the desire or progressive credentials needed to overturn years of conservative decision-making at the county level.

    This race is particularly notable as Spokane has had an all-Republican board of county commissioners for nearly a decade. It's time for progress and a return to people-focused policy in Spokane. Vote Green for County Commissioner, District 2.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    David Green

    Accounting business owner David Green is a longtime Democratic Party activist who currently serves as chair of the 3rd Legislative District Democrats and vice-chair of the Washington State Democratic Party.

    Accounting business owner David Green is a longtime Democratic Party activist who currently serves as chair of the 3rd Legislative District Democrats and vice-chair of the Washington State Democratic Party. Green is committed to working with local allies to understand and address systemic racism in Spokane County's criminal justice system and wants to consider alternative approaches to incarceration. He supports a closer relationship between the county and cities to minimize urban sprawl, and he wants to address the housing crisis at the regional level.

    Green is running against incumbent Mary Kuney, a moderate Republican who was appointed to the commission by Governor Jay Inslee in September of 2017. Kuney is a certified public accountant and the former Chief Deputy Auditor for Spokane County. While Kuney has worked across county departments to streamline budgets and improve efficiencies, she does not have the desire or progressive credentials needed to overturn years of conservative decision-making at the county level.

    This race is particularly notable as Spokane has had an all-Republican board of county commissioners for nearly a decade. It's time for progress and a return to people-focused policy in Spokane. Vote Green for County Commissioner, District 2.

    David Green

    Accounting business owner David Green is a longtime Democratic Party activist who currently serves as chair of the 3rd Legislative District Democrats and vice-chair of the Washington State Democratic Party.

  • Endorsed By: Fuse, Sierra Club
  • Justice Raquel Montoya-Lewis is running to retain Position 3 on the Washington State Supreme Court. Montoya-Lewis was originally appointed to the state Supreme Court in December 2019 by Gov. Inslee to replace Justice Mary Fairhurst. As a member of the Pueblo of Isleta tribe and the first Native American justice in Washington - and second in the nation - to serve on a state Supreme Court, Montoya-Lewis believes that representation on the bench matters.

    Previously, Montoya-Lewis served on the Whatcom County Superior Court and as chief judge for a number of Indian tribes. She has spent much of her career on juvenile justice work and as a staunch advocate for communities who have historically been excluded from representation in the judicial system. In her short tenure on the court, Montoya-Lewis has been a thoughtful and engaged member who has earned the support of many respected judicial leaders and other progressive organizations. However, some progressives have expressed concern about a decision she wrote recently where she sided against nurses who had been deprived of guaranteed workplace protections. 

    Also in this race is Judge Dave Larson, a Federal Way Municipal Court judge who also ran for a state Supreme Court seat in 2016. Larson was heavily supported by corporate PACs in his previous campaign and he espouses a conservative judicial philosophy focused on a narrow interpretation of the law.

    Raquel Montoya-Lewis deserves your vote in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Raquel Montoya-Lewis

    Justice Raquel Montoya-Lewis is running to retain Position 3 on the Washington State Supreme Court. Montoya-Lewis was originally appointed to the state Supreme Court in December 2019 by Gov. Inslee to replace Justice Mary Fairhurst.

    Justice Raquel Montoya-Lewis is running to retain Position 3 on the Washington State Supreme Court. Montoya-Lewis was originally appointed to the state Supreme Court in December 2019 by Gov. Inslee to replace Justice Mary Fairhurst. As a member of the Pueblo of Isleta tribe and the first Native American justice in Washington - and second in the nation - to serve on a state Supreme Court, Montoya-Lewis believes that representation on the bench matters.

    Previously, Montoya-Lewis served on the Whatcom County Superior Court and as chief judge for a number of Indian tribes. She has spent much of her career on juvenile justice work and as a staunch advocate for communities who have historically been excluded from representation in the judicial system. In her short tenure on the court, Montoya-Lewis has been a thoughtful and engaged member who has earned the support of many respected judicial leaders and other progressive organizations. However, some progressives have expressed concern about a decision she wrote recently where she sided against nurses who had been deprived of guaranteed workplace protections. 

    Also in this race is Judge Dave Larson, a Federal Way Municipal Court judge who also ran for a state Supreme Court seat in 2016. Larson was heavily supported by corporate PACs in his previous campaign and he espouses a conservative judicial philosophy focused on a narrow interpretation of the law.

    Raquel Montoya-Lewis deserves your vote in this race.

    Raquel Montoya-Lewis

    Justice Raquel Montoya-Lewis is running to retain Position 3 on the Washington State Supreme Court. Montoya-Lewis was originally appointed to the state Supreme Court in December 2019 by Gov. Inslee to replace Justice Mary Fairhurst.

  • Associate Chief Justice Charles W. Johnson is running to retain his seat in Position 4 of the Washington State Supreme Court. As the longest-serving justice on the court, having sat on the bench for nearly three decades, Johnson has proven time and again his judicial integrity, accountability, and impartiality.

    During his time on the state Supreme Court, Johnson has consistently supported civil rights and equitable representation. He co-chaired the Washington State Minority and Justice Commission for 24 years and also served as co-chair for the 2004 Task Force on Civil Equal Justice Funding. On the bench, Johnson has opposed bias in judicial proceedings, joining the rest of the state Supreme Court this June in an open letter vowing to "administer justice and support court rules in a way that brings greater racial justice to our system as a whole."

    Johnson is running unopposed for re-election to Position 4. With a commitment to justice for all Washingtonians, he has earned your vote.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Charles Johnson

    Associate Chief Justice Charles W. Johnson is running to retain his seat in Position 4 of the Washington State Supreme Court.

    Associate Chief Justice Charles W. Johnson is running to retain his seat in Position 4 of the Washington State Supreme Court. As the longest-serving justice on the court, having sat on the bench for nearly three decades, Johnson has proven time and again his judicial integrity, accountability, and impartiality.

    During his time on the state Supreme Court, Johnson has consistently supported civil rights and equitable representation. He co-chaired the Washington State Minority and Justice Commission for 24 years and also served as co-chair for the 2004 Task Force on Civil Equal Justice Funding. On the bench, Johnson has opposed bias in judicial proceedings, joining the rest of the state Supreme Court this June in an open letter vowing to "administer justice and support court rules in a way that brings greater racial justice to our system as a whole."

    Johnson is running unopposed for re-election to Position 4. With a commitment to justice for all Washingtonians, he has earned your vote.

    Charles Johnson

    Associate Chief Justice Charles W. Johnson is running to retain his seat in Position 4 of the Washington State Supreme Court.

  • Justice G. Helen Whitener is running to retain her position on Washington's Supreme Court. She was appointed to the Supreme Court this April by Gov. Jay Inslee. Prior to her appointment, she served on the Pierce County Superior Court, the Pierce County District Court a Pro Tem judge, and the City of Tacoma Municipal Court, after working for 14 years as a prosecutor and defense attorney.

    Whitener has been rated as "exceptionally well-qualified" by a wide slate of bar associations and has earned an endorsement from every current Supreme Court Justice as well as several past justices. Notably, she is the first Black woman to sit on the state's Supreme Court, and as an immigrant from Trinidad and an openly gay justice, she brings new perspectives to the state's highest court. While serving on the bench, she has made a point to continue to interact with the community, teaching a civics course at Tacoma's Lincoln High School.

    She is running against Richard S. Serns, a school superintendent who filed for office just weeks after passing the bar exam this spring. While he has no experience as a lawyer or judge, he states that his history of working with public records requests and privacy laws is preparation enough to serve as a justice.

    Whitener is the clear choice for State Supreme Court Justice, Position 6.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    G. Helen Whitener

    Justice G. Helen Whitener is running to retain her position on Washington's Supreme Court. She was appointed to the Supreme Court this April by Gov. Jay Inslee.

    Justice G. Helen Whitener is running to retain her position on Washington's Supreme Court. She was appointed to the Supreme Court this April by Gov. Jay Inslee. Prior to her appointment, she served on the Pierce County Superior Court, the Pierce County District Court a Pro Tem judge, and the City of Tacoma Municipal Court, after working for 14 years as a prosecutor and defense attorney.

    Whitener has been rated as "exceptionally well-qualified" by a wide slate of bar associations and has earned an endorsement from every current Supreme Court Justice as well as several past justices. Notably, she is the first Black woman to sit on the state's Supreme Court, and as an immigrant from Trinidad and an openly gay justice, she brings new perspectives to the state's highest court. While serving on the bench, she has made a point to continue to interact with the community, teaching a civics course at Tacoma's Lincoln High School.

    She is running against Richard S. Serns, a school superintendent who filed for office just weeks after passing the bar exam this spring. While he has no experience as a lawyer or judge, he states that his history of working with public records requests and privacy laws is preparation enough to serve as a justice.

    Whitener is the clear choice for State Supreme Court Justice, Position 6.

    G. Helen Whitener

    Justice G. Helen Whitener is running to retain her position on Washington's Supreme Court. She was appointed to the Supreme Court this April by Gov. Jay Inslee.

  • Chief Justice Debra L. Stephens was first appointed to the state Supreme Court in 2008 by Gov. Christine Gregoire after many years of public service and was unanimously elected by her colleagues in 2019 to serve as the 57th Chief Justice of the state's highest court. She spent a decade serving students on the school board and mentored at-risk high school students as well as students at Gonzaga University. Stephens is also the first woman from Eastern Washington to serve on the Supreme Court. She has been rated "exceptionally well-qualified" by numerous legal groups and endorsed by a number of progressives.

    Stephens is running unopposed this year and has earned your vote.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Debra L. Stephens

    Chief Justice Debra L. Stephens was first appointed to the state Supreme Court in 2008 by Gov.

    Chief Justice Debra L. Stephens was first appointed to the state Supreme Court in 2008 by Gov. Christine Gregoire after many years of public service and was unanimously elected by her colleagues in 2019 to serve as the 57th Chief Justice of the state's highest court. She spent a decade serving students on the school board and mentored at-risk high school students as well as students at Gonzaga University. Stephens is also the first woman from Eastern Washington to serve on the Supreme Court. She has been rated "exceptionally well-qualified" by numerous legal groups and endorsed by a number of progressives.

    Stephens is running unopposed this year and has earned your vote.

    Debra L. Stephens

    Chief Justice Debra L. Stephens was first appointed to the state Supreme Court in 2008 by Gov.

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below court races on your ballot.

  • Tracy Arlene Staab is running for Court of Appeals, Division 3, District 1, Position 2 to fill the spot vacated due to Judge Kevin Korsmo's retirement. Staab was appointed to the Spokane Municipal Court of Appeals upon its creation in 2009, where she and her colleagues aim to reduce recidivism and provide alternatives to incarceration, at which the community court has been successful. Prior to her appointment, she worked as a public defender, a Court of Appeals law clerk, a city prosecutor, and owned her own practice. Staab has several ratings of "exceptionally well-qualified" by independent bar associations, including the Washington Veteran's Bar Association and the Loren Miller Bar Association, which represents African-American attorneys.

    Staab is running against Marshall Casey, a former consumer protection lawyer. Casey has practiced since 2010 and started his own law firm in 2013. Though Casey states that he's an independent voice on the bench, Casey has worked as an attorney for far-right Rep. Matt Shea, who was determined to have engaged in domestic terrorism by an independent report by the state House. Casey's firm also employed Shea up until December last year, before Shea was expelled from the House Republicans. Among the cases they co-represented, one involved a student at Eastern Washington University who sued after being removed from the school newspaper after criticizing Black protestors after the murder of Michael Brown. Casey stated that Shea's firing was due to the downsizing of his office, and declined to tell the Spokesman whether he had concerns about the House-commissioned findings.

    Staab has successfully served the Spokane community and deserves your vote in this race.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Tracy Arlene Staab

    Tracy Arlene Staab is running for Court of Appeals, Division 3, District 1, Position 2 to fill the spot vacated due to Judge Kevin Korsmo's retirement.

    Tracy Arlene Staab is running for Court of Appeals, Division 3, District 1, Position 2 to fill the spot vacated due to Judge Kevin Korsmo's retirement. Staab was appointed to the Spokane Municipal Court of Appeals upon its creation in 2009, where she and her colleagues aim to reduce recidivism and provide alternatives to incarceration, at which the community court has been successful. Prior to her appointment, she worked as a public defender, a Court of Appeals law clerk, a city prosecutor, and owned her own practice. Staab has several ratings of "exceptionally well-qualified" by independent bar associations, including the Washington Veteran's Bar Association and the Loren Miller Bar Association, which represents African-American attorneys.

    Staab is running against Marshall Casey, a former consumer protection lawyer. Casey has practiced since 2010 and started his own law firm in 2013. Though Casey states that he's an independent voice on the bench, Casey has worked as an attorney for far-right Rep. Matt Shea, who was determined to have engaged in domestic terrorism by an independent report by the state House. Casey's firm also employed Shea up until December last year, before Shea was expelled from the House Republicans. Among the cases they co-represented, one involved a student at Eastern Washington University who sued after being removed from the school newspaper after criticizing Black protestors after the murder of Michael Brown. Casey stated that Shea's firing was due to the downsizing of his office, and declined to tell the Spokesman whether he had concerns about the House-commissioned findings.

    Staab has successfully served the Spokane community and deserves your vote in this race.

    Tracy Arlene Staab

    Tracy Arlene Staab is running for Court of Appeals, Division 3, District 1, Position 2 to fill the spot vacated due to Judge Kevin Korsmo's retirement.