• Korey Strozier photo

    Korey Strozier

    Website Facebook Endorsements
  • Korey Strozier is running to retain Tacoma School District, Director Position 3. He works as a program manager overseeing King County's vocational rehabilitation program for young people and was appointed to this seat in 2020. Strozier has focused on ensuring equity has been centered in the decisions of the school board as well as being a voice for disenfranchised students. If elected, he will continue his work on closing access, opportunity, and achievement gaps in the district.

    Strozier is unopposed in the race for Tacoma School District, Director Position 3, and deserves your vote.
    Korey Strozier is running to retain Tacoma School District, Director Position 3. He works as a program manager overseeing King County's vocational rehabilitation program for young people and was appointed to this seat in 2020. Strozier has focused on ensuring equity has been centered in the decisions of the school board as well as being a voice for disenfranchised students. If elected, he will continue his work on closing access, opportunity, and achievement gaps in the district.

    Strozier is unopposed in the race for Tacoma School District, Director Position 3, and deserves your vote.
    Korey Strozier is running to retain Tacoma School District, Director Position 3. He works as a program manager overseeing King County's vocational rehabilitation program for young people and was appointed to this seat in 2020. Strozier has focused on ensuring equity has been centered in the decisions of the school board as well as being a voice for disenfranchised students. If elected, he will continue his work on closing access, opportunity, and achievement gaps in the district.

    Strozier is unopposed in the race for Tacoma School District, Director Position 3, and deserves your vote.
    Korey Strozier is running to retain Tacoma School District, Director Position 3. He works as a program manager overseeing King County's vocational rehabilitation program for young people and was appointed to this seat in 2020. Strozier has focused on ensuring equity has been centered in the decisions of the school board as well as being a voice for disenfranchised students. If elected, he will continue his work on closing access, opportunity, and achievement gaps in the district.

    Strozier is unopposed in the race for Tacoma School District, Director Position 3, and deserves your vote.
    • Endorsed By: SEIU Local 925 , SEIU 775

City of Tacoma

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Statewide Ballot Measures

Advisory Vote #36

  • VOTE MAINTAINED

    Vote Maintained to strengthen mental health crisis support

  • This spring, lawmakers passed Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1477 to expand the state’s crisis response system to include a new hotline dealing exclusively with mental health emergencies.

    Sponsored by Democratic legislators, the law will divert some calls away from 911 so that Washingtonians can get more specialized crisis responses. In addition, law enforcement officers no longer need to take on responsibilities associated with social workers. This will be funded by a tax of 30 cents a month on most phone services in October 2021 until a bump to 75 cents a month starting in July 2024. All revenue generated by the tax will go to crisis line-related expenses, including expanding hotline personnel during the community mental health crisis associated with the pandemic.

    Vote “Maintained” on State Advisory Vote 36.

    This spring, lawmakers passed Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1477 to expand the state’s crisis response system to include a new hotline dealing exclusively with mental health emergencies.

    Sponsored by Democratic legislators, the law will divert some calls away from 911 so that Washingtonians can get more specialized crisis responses. In addition, law enforcement officers no longer need to take on responsibilities associated with social workers. This will be funded by a tax of 30 cents a month on most phone services in October 2021 until a bump to 75 cents a month starting in July 2024. All revenue generated by the tax will go to crisis line-related expenses, including expanding hotline personnel during the community mental health crisis associated with the pandemic.

    Vote “Maintained” on State Advisory Vote 36.

    • Endorsed By The Stranger

Advisory Vote #37

  • VOTE MAINTAINED

    Vote Maintained to balance our tax code

  • Washingtonians deserve an economy that works for us all. An essential part of that is a balanced tax code where everyone pays their share. Yet, Washington boasts the most upside-down system in the nation, where the state’s lowest-income earners pay 17% of their income in taxes while the wealthiest few pay just 3% of their income.

    This legislative session, Democratic lawmakers wrote and passed Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5096, which created a 7% capital gains tax on the sale of assets like stocks valued above $250,000. The tax is estimated to raise about $415 million primarily for child care and early learning - both services that became clearly essential to Washingtonians during the coronavirus pandemic.

    We know that good public schools, beautiful parks, and strong social services make Washington a great place to live. This long-overdue capital gains tax will go towards making sure that all Washingtonians pay their share in taxes and have the opportunity to thrive.

    Vote "Maintained" on State Advisory Vote 37.

    Washingtonians deserve an economy that works for us all. An essential part of that is a balanced tax code where everyone pays their share. Yet, Washington boasts the most upside-down system in the nation, where the state’s lowest-income earners pay 17% of their income in taxes while the wealthiest few pay just 3% of their income.

    This legislative session, Democratic lawmakers wrote and passed Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5096, which created a 7% capital gains tax on the sale of assets like stocks valued above $250,000. The tax is estimated to raise about $415 million primarily for child care and early learning - both services that became clearly essential to Washingtonians during the coronavirus pandemic.

    We know that good public schools, beautiful parks, and strong social services make Washington a great place to live. This long-overdue capital gains tax will go towards making sure that all Washingtonians pay their share in taxes and have the opportunity to thrive.

    Vote "Maintained" on State Advisory Vote 37.

    • Endorsed By The Stranger

Advisory Vote #38

  • VOTE MAINTAINED

    Vote Maintained to close a tax loophole for insurance companies

  • In the most recent legislative session, lawmakers passed Second Substitute Senate Bill 5315, which creates a 2% tax on certain insurance premiums. In effect, the law would close a tax loophole for corporations with their own insurance policies, known as captive insurers, so that all insurance companies pay premiums taxes. It is estimated to generate around $53 million over the next decade.

    SB 5315 had bipartisan sponsorship and was passed nearly unanimously with only one vote of opposition between both houses. The legislation was requested by Democratic Washington Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler, who wants to make sure that all insurance companies pay their share of taxes.

    Ensuring big corporations pay their share is an important step toward balancing our state's tax code. Vote “Maintained” on State Advisory Vote 38.

    In the most recent legislative session, lawmakers passed Second Substitute Senate Bill 5315, which creates a 2% tax on certain insurance premiums. In effect, the law would close a tax loophole for corporations with their own insurance policies, known as captive insurers, so that all insurance companies pay premiums taxes. It is estimated to generate around $53 million over the next decade.

    SB 5315 had bipartisan sponsorship and was passed nearly unanimously with only one vote of opposition between both houses. The legislation was requested by Democratic Washington Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler, who wants to make sure that all insurance companies pay their share of taxes.

    Ensuring big corporations pay their share is an important step toward balancing our state's tax code. Vote “Maintained” on State Advisory Vote 38.

    • Endorsed By The Stranger

Pierce County Ballot Measures

Pierce County Charter Amendment #51

  • No Position

    Read more below to make your decision

  • Pierce County Charter Amendment 51 concerns Section 4.10 in the county charter which lists prosecuting attorney as a partisan office. If passed, this amendment would instead change the elected prosecuting attorney position to a nonpartisan office where candidates can't list a party affiliation.

    Support for this amendment doesn't fall along traditional partisan lines, with both Democrats and Republicans on each side.

    Supporters say making the office nonpartisan reflects the office’s role to administer justice fairly for all.

    Opponents say maintaining partisan labels provides greater transparency in elections and - given the stark, far-right trends in today’s Republican party - helps voters make an informed choice based on their values.

     

    While not clear-cut, we lean against this ballot measure to maximize transparency on the ballot.

    Pierce County Charter Amendment 51 concerns Section 4.10 in the county charter which lists prosecuting attorney as a partisan office. If passed, this amendment would instead change the elected prosecuting attorney position to a nonpartisan office where candidates can't list a party affiliation.

    Support for this amendment doesn't fall along traditional partisan lines, with both Democrats and Republicans on each side.

    Supporters say making the office nonpartisan reflects the office’s role to administer justice fairly for all.

    Opponents say maintaining partisan labels provides greater transparency in elections and - given the stark, far-right trends in today’s Republican party - helps voters make an informed choice based on their values.

     

    While not clear-cut, we lean against this ballot measure to maximize transparency on the ballot.

Port of Tacoma

Port of Tacoma, Port Commissioner, Position #1

No Recommendation

We do not have a recommendation in this very low information race.

Navy veteran Laura Gilbert appears to be the more progressive candidate in this race but is not running an active campaign. She is challenging incumbent John McCarthy for Port of Tacoma, Commissioner Position 1. Gilbert works in mail service but was previously an electronics technician and nuclear reactor operator. In this race, she wants to focus on science-based environmental protections so that the Port of Tacoma can benefit the local economy without negatively impacting the surrounding ecosystem. Gilbert would also prioritize tribal sovereignty and strong community relationships in order to best serve the port.

McCarthy is a moderate who first joined the Port of Tacoma in 1983 and left in 1992 before rejoining in 2018 for a total of 13 years serving as a commissioner. A former longshore worker, McCarthy has been consistently moderate and is prioritizing environmental stewardship and job creation in this race. Outside of his work on the Port, he volunteers with the Mount Rainier National Park and the Tacoma General Hospital.
We do not have a recommendation in this very low information race.

Navy veteran Laura Gilbert appears to be the more progressive candidate in this race but is not running an active campaign. She is challenging incumbent John McCarthy for Port of Tacoma, Commissioner Position 1. Gilbert works in mail service but was previously an electronics technician and nuclear reactor operator. In this race, she wants to focus on science-based environmental protections so that the Port of Tacoma can benefit the local economy without negatively impacting the surrounding ecosystem. Gilbert would also prioritize tribal sovereignty and strong community relationships in order to best serve the port.

McCarthy is a moderate who first joined the Port of Tacoma in 1983 and left in 1992 before rejoining in 2018 for a total of 13 years serving as a commissioner. A former longshore worker, McCarthy has been consistently moderate and is prioritizing environmental stewardship and job creation in this race. Outside of his work on the Port, he volunteers with the Mount Rainier National Park and the Tacoma General Hospital.

Port of Tacoma, Port Commissioner, Position #2

  • Elizabeth Pew photo

    Elizabeth Pew

    Website Facebook Endorsements Twitter

  • Employment specialist Elizabeth Pew is running for Port of Tacoma, Position 2. Pew serves the community as a legislative district caucus delegate, a precinct committee officer, and a member of the Tacoma Arts Commission. She has pledged not to accept any fossil fuel money during her campaign and has earned an impressive roster of community endorsements.

    Pew has a progressive vision that includes responsible environmental stewardship, economic development that doesn’t leave anyone behind, and a collaborative, efficient, and reliable working port. She wants to make sure that the port is responsive to community members and voters first and foremost, as opposed to corporate interests.

    We recommend Pew for new leadership that will prioritize sustainability at the Port of Tacoma.

    Elizabeth Pew

    Submitted by alexwhite on Mon, 09/27/2021 - 17:20

    Employment specialist Elizabeth Pew is running for Port of Tacoma, Position 2. Pew serves the community as a legislative district caucus delegate, a precinct committee officer, and a member of the Tacoma Arts Commission.

    Employment specialist Elizabeth Pew is running for Port of Tacoma, Position 2. Pew serves the community as a legislative district caucus delegate, a precinct committee officer, and a member of the Tacoma Arts Commission. She has pledged not to accept any fossil fuel money during her campaign and has earned an impressive roster of community endorsements.

    Pew has a progressive vision that includes responsible environmental stewardship, economic development that doesn’t leave anyone behind, and a collaborative, efficient, and reliable working port. She wants to make sure that the port is responsive to community members and voters first and foremost, as opposed to corporate interests.

    We recommend Pew for new leadership that will prioritize sustainability at the Port of Tacoma.

    Elizabeth Pew

    Submitted by alexwhite on Mon, 09/27/2021 - 17:20

    Employment specialist Elizabeth Pew is running for Port of Tacoma, Position 2. Pew serves the community as a legislative district caucus delegate, a precinct committee officer, and a member of the Tacoma Arts Commission.

  • Dick Marzano photo

    Dick Marzano

    Facebook

  • Incumbent Commissioner Dick Marzano is running to retain Port of Tacoma, Position 2. Marzano was first elected commissioner in 1995 and serves on the executive committee for the Puget Sound Regional Council. Before his career in public service, Marzano spent 52 years working in Tacoma as a longshoreman and was also the president of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 23.

    If re-elected, Marzano wants to prioritize environmental protections and job creation. With his background as a longshoreman, Marzano knows that the two issues are connected and that those who live and work near the port are directly affected by its environmental impact. However, Marzano has not been supportive of protecting our communities from pollution from the proposed LNG facility.

    Dick Marzano

    Submitted by alexwhite on Mon, 09/27/2021 - 17:20

    Incumbent Commissioner Dick Marzano is running to retain Port of Tacoma, Position 2. Marzano was first elected commissioner in 1995 and serves on the executive committee for the Puget Sound Regional Council.

    Incumbent Commissioner Dick Marzano is running to retain Port of Tacoma, Position 2. Marzano was first elected commissioner in 1995 and serves on the executive committee for the Puget Sound Regional Council. Before his career in public service, Marzano spent 52 years working in Tacoma as a longshoreman and was also the president of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 23.

    If re-elected, Marzano wants to prioritize environmental protections and job creation. With his background as a longshoreman, Marzano knows that the two issues are connected and that those who live and work near the port are directly affected by its environmental impact. However, Marzano has not been supportive of protecting our communities from pollution from the proposed LNG facility.

    Dick Marzano

    Submitted by alexwhite on Mon, 09/27/2021 - 17:20

    Incumbent Commissioner Dick Marzano is running to retain Port of Tacoma, Position 2. Marzano was first elected commissioner in 1995 and serves on the executive committee for the Puget Sound Regional Council.

    • Endorsed By: Teamsters Joint Council 28 , Pierce County Central Labor Council

Port of Tacoma, Port Commissioner, Position #4

  • Mary Bacon photo

    Mary Bacon

    Website Endorsements

  • Mary Bacon is running for Port of Tacoma, Commissioner Position 4. Bacon is an environmental scientist, health physicist, and veteran. She served as the elected president of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE) Local 12 where she advocated for workers’ rights during multiple successful contract negotiations.

    If elected, Bacon hopes to address traffic congestion in and around the port, help foster greater economic growth, and ensure environmental stewardship that protects the unique estuarine ecosystem. She would prioritize science-backed climate policy and wants to see ports along the coast working together. Bacon has been endorsed by the Washington Conservation Voters, which sets her apart from her opponent despite listing similar platforms on their websites.

    Incumbent commissioner Don Meyer is running to retain the Position 4 seat he assumed after first being elected in 2010. Before that, Meyer served as the deputy director of the Port of Tacoma and the executive director of the Foss Waterway Development Authority. If re-elected, he wants to continue pursuing a more conservative agenda focused on modernizing terminals and waterways, but also intends to limit revenue, putting many improvements beyond reach.

    Mary Bacon is the best choice in this race to improve the port’s environment policies and advocate for the workers who keep Tacoma’s port running.

    Mary Bacon

    Submitted by alexwhite on Tue, 09/28/2021 - 12:40

    Mary Bacon is running for Port of Tacoma, Commissioner Position 4. Bacon is an environmental scientist, health physicist, and veteran.

    Mary Bacon is running for Port of Tacoma, Commissioner Position 4. Bacon is an environmental scientist, health physicist, and veteran. She served as the elected president of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE) Local 12 where she advocated for workers’ rights during multiple successful contract negotiations.

    If elected, Bacon hopes to address traffic congestion in and around the port, help foster greater economic growth, and ensure environmental stewardship that protects the unique estuarine ecosystem. She would prioritize science-backed climate policy and wants to see ports along the coast working together. Bacon has been endorsed by the Washington Conservation Voters, which sets her apart from her opponent despite listing similar platforms on their websites.

    Incumbent commissioner Don Meyer is running to retain the Position 4 seat he assumed after first being elected in 2010. Before that, Meyer served as the deputy director of the Port of Tacoma and the executive director of the Foss Waterway Development Authority. If re-elected, he wants to continue pursuing a more conservative agenda focused on modernizing terminals and waterways, but also intends to limit revenue, putting many improvements beyond reach.

    Mary Bacon is the best choice in this race to improve the port’s environment policies and advocate for the workers who keep Tacoma’s port running.

    Mary Bacon

    Submitted by alexwhite on Tue, 09/28/2021 - 12:40

    Mary Bacon is running for Port of Tacoma, Commissioner Position 4. Bacon is an environmental scientist, health physicist, and veteran.

Tacoma Mayor

Tacoma Mayor

  • Victoria Woodards photo

    Victoria Woodards

    Website Facebook Twitter

  • Victoria Woodards is running for re-election to be the mayor of Tacoma. She had a long track record of public service before becoming mayor in 2017. Woodards supports working families and is committed to maintaining safe and healthy neighborhoods across Tacoma. She also crucially understands the importance of addressing institutional racism and has a demonstrated history of working within communities of color and building diverse coalitions to address the problems facing Tacoma. In her time on the Tacoma City Council, Woodards worked on establishing Tacoma’s Office of Equity and Human Rights.

    While Woodards previously supported the proposal to build a highly polluting liquefied natural gas facility in Tacoma because it would have created jobs, she has since emphasized she does not support any new fossil fuel facilities in the Tideflats.

    Woodards faces a challenge from Steve Haverly, a first-time candidate who works in construction and land management. Haverly does not have a detailed campaign platform. While he claims to be nonpartisan, what little campaign information he does have available demonstrates his priorities would not align with what Tacoma's communities need as we come together to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Woodards has earned broad support from our Progressive Voters Guide partner organizations and numerous elected officials. Woodards is the best choice for mayor of Tacoma.

    Victoria Woodards

    Victoria Woodards is running for re-election to be the mayor of Tacoma. She had a long track record of public service before becoming mayor in 2017. Woodards supports working families and is committed to maintaining safe and healthy neighborhoods across Tacoma.

    Victoria Woodards is running for re-election to be the mayor of Tacoma. She had a long track record of public service before becoming mayor in 2017. Woodards supports working families and is committed to maintaining safe and healthy neighborhoods across Tacoma. She also crucially understands the importance of addressing institutional racism and has a demonstrated history of working within communities of color and building diverse coalitions to address the problems facing Tacoma. In her time on the Tacoma City Council, Woodards worked on establishing Tacoma’s Office of Equity and Human Rights.

    While Woodards previously supported the proposal to build a highly polluting liquefied natural gas facility in Tacoma because it would have created jobs, she has since emphasized she does not support any new fossil fuel facilities in the Tideflats.

    Woodards faces a challenge from Steve Haverly, a first-time candidate who works in construction and land management. Haverly does not have a detailed campaign platform. While he claims to be nonpartisan, what little campaign information he does have available demonstrates his priorities would not align with what Tacoma's communities need as we come together to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Woodards has earned broad support from our Progressive Voters Guide partner organizations and numerous elected officials. Woodards is the best choice for mayor of Tacoma.

    Victoria Woodards

    Victoria Woodards is running for re-election to be the mayor of Tacoma. She had a long track record of public service before becoming mayor in 2017. Woodards supports working families and is committed to maintaining safe and healthy neighborhoods across Tacoma.

Tacoma City Council

Tacoma City Council, Position #2

  • Kelly Blucher photo

    Kelly Blucher

    Website Facebook Endorsements

  • Kelly Blucher works in community outreach and engagement for the Olympics & Rainier Region Goodwill and previously worked for AmeriCorps and Habitat for Humanity. Blucher is also a co-founder of Hire 253, a local organization that has helped over 2,500 people in vulnerable positions find jobs. In 2019, she was named the Advocate of the Year by the Children's Alliance for her work to expand child care and early learning.

    Kelly Blucher is running for Tacoma City Council, Position 2 to improve access to affordable housing and child care. Blucher is running on a strong progressive platform that includes ending the homelessness crisis, increasing access to affordable housing, and connecting community members with well-paying jobs that will bring them economic stability. Blucher wants Tacoma to continue reducing its carbon footprint and implement green building practices. She also wants to provide child care subsidies for essential workers and provide greater training and a living wage for child care providers. 

    Blucher's deep community connections from years of volunteer and professional work have given her a strong sense of what Tacomans need to thrive. Blucher is a good choice for Tacoma City Council, Position 2 if you are looking for a progressive advocate with a proven track record of making change.

    Kelly Blucher

    Kelly Blucher works in community outreach and engagement for the Olympics & Rainier Region Goodwill and previously worked for AmeriCorps and Habitat for Humanity.

    Kelly Blucher works in community outreach and engagement for the Olympics & Rainier Region Goodwill and previously worked for AmeriCorps and Habitat for Humanity. Blucher is also a co-founder of Hire 253, a local organization that has helped over 2,500 people in vulnerable positions find jobs. In 2019, she was named the Advocate of the Year by the Children's Alliance for her work to expand child care and early learning.

    Kelly Blucher is running for Tacoma City Council, Position 2 to improve access to affordable housing and child care. Blucher is running on a strong progressive platform that includes ending the homelessness crisis, increasing access to affordable housing, and connecting community members with well-paying jobs that will bring them economic stability. Blucher wants Tacoma to continue reducing its carbon footprint and implement green building practices. She also wants to provide child care subsidies for essential workers and provide greater training and a living wage for child care providers. 

    Blucher's deep community connections from years of volunteer and professional work have given her a strong sense of what Tacomans need to thrive. Blucher is a good choice for Tacoma City Council, Position 2 if you are looking for a progressive advocate with a proven track record of making change.

    Kelly Blucher

    Kelly Blucher works in community outreach and engagement for the Olympics & Rainier Region Goodwill and previously worked for AmeriCorps and Habitat for Humanity.

  • Sarah Rumbaugh photo

    Sarah Rumbaugh

    Website Facebook Endorsements

  • Sarah Rumbaugh owns a consulting business and serves on the Tacoma Human Rights Commission. She previously worked as a city planner for Kent and with the Housing Equity Task Force helping to develop the Home in Tacoma Project.

    Rumbaugh wants to tackle challenges like air and water pollution and decrease our reliance on fossil fuels without impacting the local economy or jobs in the area. Her campaign is emphasizing resetting the economy as the COVID-19 pandemic continues, bringing more affordable housing to Tacoma, and prioritizing frontline workers and their families. Rumbaugh is also a passionate advocate for people with disabilities and has pledged to listen and push the city to become inclusive. Her platform includes a commitment to public education and ensuring that all schools receive equitable funding, regardless of neighborhood or zip code. 

    Rumbaugh is a good choice for Tacoma City Council, Position 2 if you are looking for a moderate candidate who is focused on boosting the local economy.

    Sarah Rumbaugh

    Sarah Rumbaugh owns a consulting business and serves on the Tacoma Human Rights Commission. She previously worked as a city planner for Kent and with the Housing Equity Task Force helping to develop the Home in Tacoma Project.

    Sarah Rumbaugh owns a consulting business and serves on the Tacoma Human Rights Commission. She previously worked as a city planner for Kent and with the Housing Equity Task Force helping to develop the Home in Tacoma Project.

    Rumbaugh wants to tackle challenges like air and water pollution and decrease our reliance on fossil fuels without impacting the local economy or jobs in the area. Her campaign is emphasizing resetting the economy as the COVID-19 pandemic continues, bringing more affordable housing to Tacoma, and prioritizing frontline workers and their families. Rumbaugh is also a passionate advocate for people with disabilities and has pledged to listen and push the city to become inclusive. Her platform includes a commitment to public education and ensuring that all schools receive equitable funding, regardless of neighborhood or zip code. 

    Rumbaugh is a good choice for Tacoma City Council, Position 2 if you are looking for a moderate candidate who is focused on boosting the local economy.

    Sarah Rumbaugh

    Sarah Rumbaugh owns a consulting business and serves on the Tacoma Human Rights Commission. She previously worked as a city planner for Kent and with the Housing Equity Task Force helping to develop the Home in Tacoma Project.

Tacoma City Council, Position #4

  • Catherine Ushka photo

    Catherine Ushka

    Website Endorsements
    Evergreen Future

  • Catherine Ushka is running for re-election to Tacoma City Council, Position 4. Ushka was first elected to the council in 2017 and previously served on the Tacoma School Board for eight years. She chairs the Community Vitality and Safety Committee and is a member of groups including the Parks Policy Board and Opioid Prevention Taskforce.

    In her time on the council, Ushka supported apprenticeship programs by changing labor codes to make these programs more accessible. If she's re-elected, Ushka wants to do more to fight racial inequalities in health, housing, education, employment, and law enforcement. She states that she will continue to work for more flexible federal funding for housing and shelters, including low-barrier shelters with fewer barriers to entry for the city's unhoused population. Ushka also feels the city needs to increase zoning density where suitable to address the housing deficit and provide additional resources for responding to mental health crises.

    Also in this race is Israel James McKinney. McKinney has worked for Boeing and Xfinity and currently works for Washington’s Department of Social and Health Services. His platform includes prioritizing education, supporting police reform and accountability, and reducing the gap in affordable housing.

    Our local council was disappointed with some of Ushka's interview answers, including her support for moving the migrant detention center to the Nalley Valley. However, Ushka’s support from local progressive groups and our partner organizations makes her the best choice in the race for Tacoma City Council, Position 4.

    Catherine Ushka

    Catherine Ushka is running for re-election to Tacoma City Council, Position 4. Ushka was first elected to the council in 2017 and previously served on the Tacoma School Board for eight years.

    Catherine Ushka is running for re-election to Tacoma City Council, Position 4. Ushka was first elected to the council in 2017 and previously served on the Tacoma School Board for eight years. She chairs the Community Vitality and Safety Committee and is a member of groups including the Parks Policy Board and Opioid Prevention Taskforce.

    In her time on the council, Ushka supported apprenticeship programs by changing labor codes to make these programs more accessible. If she's re-elected, Ushka wants to do more to fight racial inequalities in health, housing, education, employment, and law enforcement. She states that she will continue to work for more flexible federal funding for housing and shelters, including low-barrier shelters with fewer barriers to entry for the city's unhoused population. Ushka also feels the city needs to increase zoning density where suitable to address the housing deficit and provide additional resources for responding to mental health crises.

    Also in this race is Israel James McKinney. McKinney has worked for Boeing and Xfinity and currently works for Washington’s Department of Social and Health Services. His platform includes prioritizing education, supporting police reform and accountability, and reducing the gap in affordable housing.

    Our local council was disappointed with some of Ushka's interview answers, including her support for moving the migrant detention center to the Nalley Valley. However, Ushka’s support from local progressive groups and our partner organizations makes her the best choice in the race for Tacoma City Council, Position 4.

    Catherine Ushka

    Catherine Ushka is running for re-election to Tacoma City Council, Position 4. Ushka was first elected to the council in 2017 and previously served on the Tacoma School Board for eight years.

Tacoma City Council, Position #5

  • Anne Artman photo

    Anne Artman

    Website Facebook Endorsements
    Evergreen Future

  • Anne Artman is running for Tacoma City Council, Position 5. She is the founder and executive director of the Tacoma Recovery Center and previously served as the program manager of the Multicultural Child and Family Hope Center.

    Artman's campaign priorities include dealing with the affordable housing and homelessness crises, increasing behavioral health and social services, bringing more women-, Black-, brown-, and Indigenous-owned businesses to the community, and supporting Tacoma’s existing small businesses. She is also emphasizing social and racial justice and will work for more accountability, transparency, and equitable opportunities for all communities. Artman has been endorsed by progressive leaders like House Speaker Laurie Jinkins and Rep. Melanie Morgan and groups including the Stonewall Democrats and the National Women’s Political Caucus.

    Artman is an exciting leader who has earned strong support from our Progressive Voters Guide partners, as well as progressive elected and community leaders. Artman is the best choice in the race for Tacoma City Council, Position 5.

    Anne Artman

    Anne Artman is running for Tacoma City Council, Position 5. She is the founder and executive director of the Tacoma Recovery Center and previously served as the program manager of the Multicultural Child and Family Hope Center.

    Anne Artman is running for Tacoma City Council, Position 5. She is the founder and executive director of the Tacoma Recovery Center and previously served as the program manager of the Multicultural Child and Family Hope Center.

    Artman's campaign priorities include dealing with the affordable housing and homelessness crises, increasing behavioral health and social services, bringing more women-, Black-, brown-, and Indigenous-owned businesses to the community, and supporting Tacoma’s existing small businesses. She is also emphasizing social and racial justice and will work for more accountability, transparency, and equitable opportunities for all communities. Artman has been endorsed by progressive leaders like House Speaker Laurie Jinkins and Rep. Melanie Morgan and groups including the Stonewall Democrats and the National Women’s Political Caucus.

    Artman is an exciting leader who has earned strong support from our Progressive Voters Guide partners, as well as progressive elected and community leaders. Artman is the best choice in the race for Tacoma City Council, Position 5.

    Anne Artman

    Anne Artman is running for Tacoma City Council, Position 5. She is the founder and executive director of the Tacoma Recovery Center and previously served as the program manager of the Multicultural Child and Family Hope Center.

  • Joe Bushnell photo

    Joe Bushnell

    Website Facebook Endorsements Twitter
    Evergreen Future

  • Joe Bushnell is a Tacoma Public Utilities board member and Marine Corps veteran. He is running on a platform that focuses on addressing homelessness and creating jobs.

    Bushnell is a moderate candidate whose orientation toward prioritizing downtown businesses has raised concerns among local labor unions. In addition, he is more focused on superficial discussions about law enforcement than making meaningful reforms and investments that will actually keep our communities safe.

    Joe Bushnell

    Joe Bushnell is a Tacoma Public Utilities board member and Marine Corps veteran. He is running on a platform that focuses on addressing homelessness and creating jobs.

    Joe Bushnell is a Tacoma Public Utilities board member and Marine Corps veteran. He is running on a platform that focuses on addressing homelessness and creating jobs.

    Bushnell is a moderate candidate whose orientation toward prioritizing downtown businesses has raised concerns among local labor unions. In addition, he is more focused on superficial discussions about law enforcement than making meaningful reforms and investments that will actually keep our communities safe.

    Joe Bushnell

    Joe Bushnell is a Tacoma Public Utilities board member and Marine Corps veteran. He is running on a platform that focuses on addressing homelessness and creating jobs.

Tacoma City Council, Position #6

  • Kiara Daniels photo

    Kiara Daniels

    Website Facebook Endorsements Twitter

  • Kiara Daniels is running for Tacoma City Council, Position 6. She is a small business owner and former Fuse fellow with strong progressive values. Daniels' campaign platform includes a holistic response to public health emergencies like COVID-19 by providing financial support to vulnerable families, workers, small businesses, and all others who have been severely impacted. She wants to invest in after-school programs for students and fight for seniors and other community members to have the stable housing and resources they need. Daniels is very involved in the Tacoma community and would bring a great progressive perspective to the city council.

    Also in this race is Brett Johnson, a business owner and member of the Sound Transit Citizen Oversight Panel. He previously ran for city council in 2019 and has expressed support for a radical policy of "gifting" everyone a single "lifetime discretionary abortion." Johnson is neither progressive nor qualified for this role.

    Daniels is the clear choice for Tacoma City Council, Position 6.

    Kiara Daniels

    Kiara Daniels is running for Tacoma City Council, Position 6. She is a small business owner and former Fuse fellow with strong progressive values.

    Kiara Daniels is running for Tacoma City Council, Position 6. She is a small business owner and former Fuse fellow with strong progressive values. Daniels' campaign platform includes a holistic response to public health emergencies like COVID-19 by providing financial support to vulnerable families, workers, small businesses, and all others who have been severely impacted. She wants to invest in after-school programs for students and fight for seniors and other community members to have the stable housing and resources they need. Daniels is very involved in the Tacoma community and would bring a great progressive perspective to the city council.

    Also in this race is Brett Johnson, a business owner and member of the Sound Transit Citizen Oversight Panel. He previously ran for city council in 2019 and has expressed support for a radical policy of "gifting" everyone a single "lifetime discretionary abortion." Johnson is neither progressive nor qualified for this role.

    Daniels is the clear choice for Tacoma City Council, Position 6.

    Kiara Daniels

    Kiara Daniels is running for Tacoma City Council, Position 6. She is a small business owner and former Fuse fellow with strong progressive values.

City of Tacoma

Tacoma Civil Service Board, Position 1

  • Eric Hansen photo

    Eric Hansen

  • Incumbent commissioner Eric Hansen is running for re-election to Position 1 on the Tacoma Civil Service Commission. Hansen is a lawyer and has worked for the Washington Education Association to defend teachers and other school employees in employment cases for more than 35 years. He first joined the commission in 2014 and also serves as a Democratic precinct committee officer. Hansen is running to bring his legal experience advocating for workers and his demonstrated commission track record to continue ensuring that all employees are treated fairly and justly.
     
    Femi Adeleke is also in this race. Originally from Nigeria, Adeleke is passionate about representing marginalized communities within Pierce County and serving his home. He works as a clinical data analyst in health care, though he has not listed either community service or leadership in the local voters' pamphlet. In this race, Adeleke is prioritizing equity, representation, and accessibility for all residents.

    We recommend Eric Hansen in this race because of his support from progressive organizations in the area.
     

    Eric Hansen

    Incumbent commissioner Eric Hansen is running for re-election to Position 1 on the Tacoma Civil Service Commission. Hansen is a lawyer and has worked for the Washington Education Association to defend teachers and other school employees in employment cases for more than 35 years.

    Incumbent commissioner Eric Hansen is running for re-election to Position 1 on the Tacoma Civil Service Commission. Hansen is a lawyer and has worked for the Washington Education Association to defend teachers and other school employees in employment cases for more than 35 years. He first joined the commission in 2014 and also serves as a Democratic precinct committee officer. Hansen is running to bring his legal experience advocating for workers and his demonstrated commission track record to continue ensuring that all employees are treated fairly and justly.
     
    Femi Adeleke is also in this race. Originally from Nigeria, Adeleke is passionate about representing marginalized communities within Pierce County and serving his home. He works as a clinical data analyst in health care, though he has not listed either community service or leadership in the local voters' pamphlet. In this race, Adeleke is prioritizing equity, representation, and accessibility for all residents.

    We recommend Eric Hansen in this race because of his support from progressive organizations in the area.
     

    Eric Hansen

    Incumbent commissioner Eric Hansen is running for re-election to Position 1 on the Tacoma Civil Service Commission. Hansen is a lawyer and has worked for the Washington Education Association to defend teachers and other school employees in employment cases for more than 35 years.

    • Endorsed By: Teamsters Joint Council 28 , Pierce County Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO

Tacoma School Board

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

Tacoma School Board, Director, Position #2

  • Enrique Leon photo

    Enrique Leon

    Facebook

  • Enrique Leon is running for re-election to Tacoma School Board, Director Position 2. He has served on the school board since 2018. Along with his position on the board, Dr. Leon works at MultiCare Tacoma Family Medicine and volunteers as a team physician for Lincoln and Stadium High schools. His re-election campaign prioritizes enhancing partnerships with local community groups, expanding social-emotional curriculum, and providing great resources to students and teachers.

    His opponent in this race is Sarah Hendrix, the co-owner of a contracting company. Hendrix has served as PTA treasurer and president. Her platform is dismissive of teaching students healthy social and emotional skills like self-awareness and self-control, and is equally against teaching kids honest and complete history.

    Leon is the clear choice in the race for Tacoma School Board, Director, Position 2.

    Enrique Leon is running for re-election to Tacoma School Board, Director Position 2. He has served on the school board since 2018. Along with his position on the board, Dr. Leon works at MultiCare Tacoma Family Medicine and volunteers as a team physician for Lincoln and Stadium High schools. His re-election campaign prioritizes enhancing partnerships with local community groups, expanding social-emotional curriculum, and providing great resources to students and teachers.

    His opponent in this race is Sarah Hendrix, the co-owner of a contracting company. Hendrix has served as PTA treasurer and president. Her platform is dismissive of teaching students healthy social and emotional skills like self-awareness and self-control, and is equally against teaching kids honest and complete history.

    Leon is the clear choice in the race for Tacoma School Board, Director, Position 2.

    Enrique Leon is running for re-election to Tacoma School Board, Director Position 2. He has served on the school board since 2018. Along with his position on the board, Dr. Leon works at MultiCare Tacoma Family Medicine and volunteers as a team physician for Lincoln and Stadium High schools. His re-election campaign prioritizes enhancing partnerships with local community groups, expanding social-emotional curriculum, and providing great resources to students and teachers.

    His opponent in this race is Sarah Hendrix, the co-owner of a contracting company. Hendrix has served as PTA treasurer and president. Her platform is dismissive of teaching students healthy social and emotional skills like self-awareness and self-control, and is equally against teaching kids honest and complete history.

    Leon is the clear choice in the race for Tacoma School Board, Director, Position 2.

    Enrique Leon is running for re-election to Tacoma School Board, Director Position 2. He has served on the school board since 2018. Along with his position on the board, Dr. Leon works at MultiCare Tacoma Family Medicine and volunteers as a team physician for Lincoln and Stadium High schools. His re-election campaign prioritizes enhancing partnerships with local community groups, expanding social-emotional curriculum, and providing great resources to students and teachers.

    His opponent in this race is Sarah Hendrix, the co-owner of a contracting company. Hendrix has served as PTA treasurer and president. Her platform is dismissive of teaching students healthy social and emotional skills like self-awareness and self-control, and is equally against teaching kids honest and complete history.

    Leon is the clear choice in the race for Tacoma School Board, Director, Position 2.

Tacoma School Board, Director, Position #3

  • Korey Strozier photo

    Korey Strozier

    Website Facebook Endorsements
  • Korey Strozier is running to retain Tacoma School District, Director Position 3. He works as a program manager overseeing King County's vocational rehabilitation program for young people and was appointed to this seat in 2020. Strozier has focused on ensuring equity has been centered in the decisions of the school board as well as being a voice for disenfranchised students. If elected, he will continue his work on closing access, opportunity, and achievement gaps in the district.

    Strozier is unopposed in the race for Tacoma School District, Director Position 3, and deserves your vote.
    Korey Strozier is running to retain Tacoma School District, Director Position 3. He works as a program manager overseeing King County's vocational rehabilitation program for young people and was appointed to this seat in 2020. Strozier has focused on ensuring equity has been centered in the decisions of the school board as well as being a voice for disenfranchised students. If elected, he will continue his work on closing access, opportunity, and achievement gaps in the district.

    Strozier is unopposed in the race for Tacoma School District, Director Position 3, and deserves your vote.
    Korey Strozier is running to retain Tacoma School District, Director Position 3. He works as a program manager overseeing King County's vocational rehabilitation program for young people and was appointed to this seat in 2020. Strozier has focused on ensuring equity has been centered in the decisions of the school board as well as being a voice for disenfranchised students. If elected, he will continue his work on closing access, opportunity, and achievement gaps in the district.

    Strozier is unopposed in the race for Tacoma School District, Director Position 3, and deserves your vote.
    Korey Strozier is running to retain Tacoma School District, Director Position 3. He works as a program manager overseeing King County's vocational rehabilitation program for young people and was appointed to this seat in 2020. Strozier has focused on ensuring equity has been centered in the decisions of the school board as well as being a voice for disenfranchised students. If elected, he will continue his work on closing access, opportunity, and achievement gaps in the district.

    Strozier is unopposed in the race for Tacoma School District, Director Position 3, and deserves your vote.
    • Endorsed By: SEIU Local 925 , SEIU 775

Tacoma School Board, Director, Position #4

  • Chelsea McElroy photo

    Chelsea McElroy

    Website Facebook

  • Chelsea McElroy is running unopposed for Tacoma School District, Director Position 4. McElroy is the vice-chair of the South Tacoma Neighborhood Council and the assistant treasurer of the Pierce County Democrats. She has spent 10 years as a pre-school teacher and launched her own program, Vision Step Team, in 2016. McElroy's priorities for the school board include transparency, consideration of all students and parents when making decisions, and increasing accessibility including bringing translators to meetings.

    McElroy is running unopposed for Tacoma School District, Director Position 4, and deserves your vote.

    Chelsea McElroy is running unopposed for Tacoma School District, Director Position 4. McElroy is the vice-chair of the South Tacoma Neighborhood Council and the assistant treasurer of the Pierce County Democrats. She has spent 10 years as a pre-school teacher and launched her own program, Vision Step Team, in 2016. McElroy's priorities for the school board include transparency, consideration of all students and parents when making decisions, and increasing accessibility including bringing translators to meetings.

    McElroy is running unopposed for Tacoma School District, Director Position 4, and deserves your vote.

    Chelsea McElroy is running unopposed for Tacoma School District, Director Position 4. McElroy is the vice-chair of the South Tacoma Neighborhood Council and the assistant treasurer of the Pierce County Democrats. She has spent 10 years as a pre-school teacher and launched her own program, Vision Step Team, in 2016. McElroy's priorities for the school board include transparency, consideration of all students and parents when making decisions, and increasing accessibility including bringing translators to meetings.

    McElroy is running unopposed for Tacoma School District, Director Position 4, and deserves your vote.

    Chelsea McElroy is running unopposed for Tacoma School District, Director Position 4. McElroy is the vice-chair of the South Tacoma Neighborhood Council and the assistant treasurer of the Pierce County Democrats. She has spent 10 years as a pre-school teacher and launched her own program, Vision Step Team, in 2016. McElroy's priorities for the school board include transparency, consideration of all students and parents when making decisions, and increasing accessibility including bringing translators to meetings.

    McElroy is running unopposed for Tacoma School District, Director Position 4, and deserves your vote.

    • Endorsed By: SEIU 775 , SEIU Local 925 , Alliance for Gun Responsibility

Tacoma School Board, Director, Position #5

  • Elizabeth Bonbright photo

    Elizabeth Bonbright

    Website Facebook Endorsements Twitter

  • Elizabeth Bonbright is running for re-election to Tacoma School Board, Director 5. She was elected to this position in 2019 and has served as vice president of the school board since 2020. Before joining the school board, Bonbright served as the executive director of the Child Care Aware of Washington and on the advisory committee of organizations including the National Women's Law Center and Strengthening Families United Way. She is proud of her record of delivering meals, internet access, and needed technology to students during the COVID-19 pandemic and implementing safe in-person education ahead of the Washington state schedule. If re-elected, Bonbright wants to improve equity in the district by expanding early childhood education and addressing disparities in disciplinary actions against Black and brown students.

    Bonbright is facing Bill Hanawalt, the development director of a local nonprofit organization. Hanawalt was the initial executive director of Peace Community Center and been involved with the Peace Lutheran Church. He also served on the Expanded Learning Statewide Council for over five years, and was a founding member of the Vibrant School Coalition. His platform is not particularly detailed but does mention accessibility, listening to the perspective of all community members, and ensuring students are equipped with all the tools they need to be successful.


    Bonbright is the best choice in the race for Tacoma School Board, Position 5 because of her community support and her track record in office of serving youth and children with data-driven solutions.

    Elizabeth Bonbright is running for re-election to Tacoma School Board, Director 5. She was elected to this position in 2019 and has served as vice president of the school board since 2020. Before joining the school board, Bonbright served as the executive director of the Child Care Aware of Washington and on the advisory committee of organizations including the National Women's Law Center and Strengthening Families United Way. She is proud of her record of delivering meals, internet access, and needed technology to students during the COVID-19 pandemic and implementing safe in-person education ahead of the Washington state schedule. If re-elected, Bonbright wants to improve equity in the district by expanding early childhood education and addressing disparities in disciplinary actions against Black and brown students.

    Bonbright is facing Bill Hanawalt, the development director of a local nonprofit organization. Hanawalt was the initial executive director of Peace Community Center and been involved with the Peace Lutheran Church. He also served on the Expanded Learning Statewide Council for over five years, and was a founding member of the Vibrant School Coalition. His platform is not particularly detailed but does mention accessibility, listening to the perspective of all community members, and ensuring students are equipped with all the tools they need to be successful.


    Bonbright is the best choice in the race for Tacoma School Board, Position 5 because of her community support and her track record in office of serving youth and children with data-driven solutions.

    Elizabeth Bonbright is running for re-election to Tacoma School Board, Director 5. She was elected to this position in 2019 and has served as vice president of the school board since 2020. Before joining the school board, Bonbright served as the executive director of the Child Care Aware of Washington and on the advisory committee of organizations including the National Women's Law Center and Strengthening Families United Way. She is proud of her record of delivering meals, internet access, and needed technology to students during the COVID-19 pandemic and implementing safe in-person education ahead of the Washington state schedule. If re-elected, Bonbright wants to improve equity in the district by expanding early childhood education and addressing disparities in disciplinary actions against Black and brown students.

    Bonbright is facing Bill Hanawalt, the development director of a local nonprofit organization. Hanawalt was the initial executive director of Peace Community Center and been involved with the Peace Lutheran Church. He also served on the Expanded Learning Statewide Council for over five years, and was a founding member of the Vibrant School Coalition. His platform is not particularly detailed but does mention accessibility, listening to the perspective of all community members, and ensuring students are equipped with all the tools they need to be successful.


    Bonbright is the best choice in the race for Tacoma School Board, Position 5 because of her community support and her track record in office of serving youth and children with data-driven solutions.

    Elizabeth Bonbright is running for re-election to Tacoma School Board, Director 5. She was elected to this position in 2019 and has served as vice president of the school board since 2020. Before joining the school board, Bonbright served as the executive director of the Child Care Aware of Washington and on the advisory committee of organizations including the National Women's Law Center and Strengthening Families United Way. She is proud of her record of delivering meals, internet access, and needed technology to students during the COVID-19 pandemic and implementing safe in-person education ahead of the Washington state schedule. If re-elected, Bonbright wants to improve equity in the district by expanding early childhood education and addressing disparities in disciplinary actions against Black and brown students.

    Bonbright is facing Bill Hanawalt, the development director of a local nonprofit organization. Hanawalt was the initial executive director of Peace Community Center and been involved with the Peace Lutheran Church. He also served on the Expanded Learning Statewide Council for over five years, and was a founding member of the Vibrant School Coalition. His platform is not particularly detailed but does mention accessibility, listening to the perspective of all community members, and ensuring students are equipped with all the tools they need to be successful.


    Bonbright is the best choice in the race for Tacoma School Board, Position 5 because of her community support and her track record in office of serving youth and children with data-driven solutions.

    • Endorsed By: UFCW 3000 , Alliance for Gun Responsibility