Nancy Backus (listed in Progressive Voters Guide)

Nancy Backus

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Nancy Backus is running unopposed for re-election to be mayor of Auburn. She was first elected in 2014 and previously served on the city council and as deputy mayor. In her time as mayor, Backus has assisted in awarding $200,000 in grants to local businesses and increasing the number of good-paying jobs in Auburn. She is promoting bringing jobs to the area, reducing traffic congestion, and expanding transportation options in her re-election campaign.

Backus is unopposed in the race for mayor of Auburn and deserves your vote.

Nancy Backus is running unopposed for re-election to be mayor of Auburn. She was first elected in 2014 and previously served on the city council and as deputy mayor. In her time as mayor, Backus has assisted in awarding $200,000 in grants to local businesses and increasing the number of good-paying jobs in Auburn. She is promoting bringing jobs to the area, reducing traffic congestion, and expanding transportation options in her re-election campaign.

Backus is unopposed in the race for mayor of Auburn and deserves your vote.

Nancy Backus is running unopposed for re-election to be mayor of Auburn. She was first elected in 2014 and previously served on the city council and as deputy mayor. In her time as mayor, Backus has assisted in awarding $200,000 in grants to local businesses and increasing the number of good-paying jobs in Auburn. She is promoting bringing jobs to the area, reducing traffic congestion, and expanding transportation options in her re-election campaign.

Backus is unopposed in the race for mayor of Auburn and deserves your vote.

Nancy Backus is running unopposed for re-election to be mayor of Auburn. She was first elected in 2014 and previously served on the city council and as deputy mayor. In her time as mayor, Backus has assisted in awarding $200,000 in grants to local businesses and increasing the number of good-paying jobs in Auburn. She is promoting bringing jobs to the area, reducing traffic congestion, and expanding transportation options in her re-election campaign.

Backus is unopposed in the race for mayor of Auburn and deserves your vote.

Endorsed By: Teamsters Joint Council 28

Because of a Tim Eyman initiative, the Legislature is required to submit any bill it passes that closes tax loopholes or raises revenue to a nonbinding advisory vote. The Legislature had a historically productive 2021 session, resulting in several advisory votes appearing on the ballot. We hope the Legislature will change the law to remove these meaningless measures in the future.

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

King County

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

King County Executive

Two good progressives are running for King County Executive: Dow Constantine and Joe Nguyen. We recommend Constantine based on his outstanding track record of leadership and effectiveness as well as his strong support from our Progressive Voters Guide partners.

Non-Partisan
Dow Constantine

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Evergreen Future
King County Executive Dow Constantine has been a strong and effective leader for economic justice, workers, and climate action throughout his career. As a state legislator, on the King County Council, and as King County Executive, Constantine has fought for and delivered transportation and transit solutions, action on climate, improvements in public health, and an efficiently run government.

Under his leadership, King County has expanded Metro transit service, improved oil safety rules, and created one of the best urban forestry programs in the nation. Constantine also led efforts to pass Best Starts for Kids, a model initiative that increases access to healthy food, affordable housing, and public health services for many of King County's most vulnerable children.

Constantine is now running for a fourth term as King County Executive to build on a pandemic recovery that puts people first and creates inclusive communities. If he is re-elected, one of Constantine's priorities will be to reform the King County Sheriff's Office. During our interview, he expressed his frustration at the challenges of getting answers or reforms out of the current independent sheriff's office. As the county shifts to an executive-appointed sheriff, which voters approved last fall, Constantine said he will push for more transparency and demand that officers wear body cameras.

In addition, Constantine is hoping to continue and expand his efforts to open more hotels to house homeless residents of King County. He expressed pride in a new zero-emissions, low-income housing development in Renton and hopes to expand that model across the county.

Constantine has faced some criticism during his tenure around the building of the $242 million King County Youth Detention Center, which voters approved in 2012 and opened in 2018. During the protests for racial justice last summer, Constantine announced his support for transitioning the jail away from holding youth by 2025.

Constantine has earned overwhelming support from our Progressive Voters Guide partner organizations as well as elected and community leaders. He is the best choice in this race.

Dow Constantine

King County Executive Dow Constantine has been a strong and effective leader for economic justice, workers, and climate action throughout his career.

King County Executive Dow Constantine has been a strong and effective leader for economic justice, workers, and climate action throughout his career. As a state legislator, on the King County Council, and as King County Executive, Constantine has fought for and delivered transportation and transit solutions, action on climate, improvements in public health, and an efficiently run government.

Under his leadership, King County has expanded Metro transit service, improved oil safety rules, and created one of the best urban forestry programs in the nation. Constantine also led efforts to pass Best Starts for Kids, a model initiative that increases access to healthy food, affordable housing, and public health services for many of King County's most vulnerable children.

Constantine is now running for a fourth term as King County Executive to build on a pandemic recovery that puts people first and creates inclusive communities. If he is re-elected, one of Constantine's priorities will be to reform the King County Sheriff's Office. During our interview, he expressed his frustration at the challenges of getting answers or reforms out of the current independent sheriff's office. As the county shifts to an executive-appointed sheriff, which voters approved last fall, Constantine said he will push for more transparency and demand that officers wear body cameras.

In addition, Constantine is hoping to continue and expand his efforts to open more hotels to house homeless residents of King County. He expressed pride in a new zero-emissions, low-income housing development in Renton and hopes to expand that model across the county.

Constantine has faced some criticism during his tenure around the building of the $242 million King County Youth Detention Center, which voters approved in 2012 and opened in 2018. During the protests for racial justice last summer, Constantine announced his support for transitioning the jail away from holding youth by 2025.

Constantine has earned overwhelming support from our Progressive Voters Guide partner organizations as well as elected and community leaders. He is the best choice in this race.

Dow Constantine

King County Executive Dow Constantine has been a strong and effective leader for economic justice, workers, and climate action throughout his career.

Endorsed By: M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO , Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates , SEIU Locals 6, 775, 925, and 1199 , Teamsters 117 , UFCW 3000 , Washington Bikes , Washington Conservation Voters , Alliance for Gun Responsibility

Non-Partisan
Dow Constantine

Website Facebook Endorsements Twitter

Evergreen Future
King County Executive Dow Constantine has been a strong and effective leader for economic justice, workers, and climate action throughout his career. As a state legislator, on the King County Council, and as King County Executive, Constantine has fought for and delivered transportation and transit solutions, action on climate, improvements in public health, and an efficiently run government.

Under his leadership, King County has expanded Metro transit service, improved oil safety rules, and created one of the best urban forestry programs in the nation. Constantine also led efforts to pass Best Starts for Kids, a model initiative that increases access to healthy food, affordable housing, and public health services for many of King County's most vulnerable children.

Constantine is now running for a fourth term as King County Executive to build on a pandemic recovery that puts people first and creates inclusive communities. If he is re-elected, one of Constantine's priorities will be to reform the King County Sheriff's Office. During our interview, he expressed his frustration at the challenges of getting answers or reforms out of the current independent sheriff's office. As the county shifts to an executive-appointed sheriff, which voters approved last fall, Constantine said he will push for more transparency and demand that officers wear body cameras.

In addition, Constantine is hoping to continue and expand his efforts to open more hotels to house homeless residents of King County. He expressed pride in a new zero-emissions, low-income housing development in Renton and hopes to expand that model across the county.

Constantine has faced some criticism during his tenure around the building of the $242 million King County Youth Detention Center, which voters approved in 2012 and opened in 2018. During the protests for racial justice last summer, Constantine announced his support for transitioning the jail away from holding youth by 2025.

Constantine has earned overwhelming support from our Progressive Voters Guide partner organizations as well as elected and community leaders. He is the best choice in this race.

Non-Partisan
Joe Nguyen

Website Facebook Endorsements Twitter

Evergreen Future
Sen. Joe Nguyen was elected to the Washington state Senate in 2018 and has worked as a senior program manager at Microsoft since 2013. His parents were refugees from Vietnam who came to White Center, where Nguyen was born and raised.

During Nguyen's time in the Legislature, he has been an advocate for Washington's families and equality, including playing a leadership role in fully funding the Working Families Tax Credit. In addition, he co-sponsored legislation to require anti-racism and equity training in public schools.

Nguyen is running for county executive to implement sweeping actions on the affordable housing crisis, to reform the criminal justice system with deep changes and accountability, and to make the state's economy work for everyone, not just the wealthiest people. In particular, Nguyen has proposed to make all transit services free to improve access and increase ridership. He also wants to leverage the new Regional Homelessness Authority to significantly scale up the building of affordable housing.

Nguyen has the support of elected leaders including state Reps. Kirsten Harris-Talley and David Hackney as well as state Sen. Bob Hasegawa and Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti. Nguyen is a progressive choice if you're looking for new leadership in the executive's office who will prioritize racial justice and systemic change.

Joe Nguyen

Sen. Joe Nguyen was elected to the Washington state Senate in 2018 and has worked as a senior program manager at Microsoft since 2013. His parents were refugees from Vietnam who came to White Center, where Nguyen was born and raised.

Sen. Joe Nguyen was elected to the Washington state Senate in 2018 and has worked as a senior program manager at Microsoft since 2013. His parents were refugees from Vietnam who came to White Center, where Nguyen was born and raised.

During Nguyen's time in the Legislature, he has been an advocate for Washington's families and equality, including playing a leadership role in fully funding the Working Families Tax Credit. In addition, he co-sponsored legislation to require anti-racism and equity training in public schools.

Nguyen is running for county executive to implement sweeping actions on the affordable housing crisis, to reform the criminal justice system with deep changes and accountability, and to make the state's economy work for everyone, not just the wealthiest people. In particular, Nguyen has proposed to make all transit services free to improve access and increase ridership. He also wants to leverage the new Regional Homelessness Authority to significantly scale up the building of affordable housing.

Nguyen has the support of elected leaders including state Reps. Kirsten Harris-Talley and David Hackney as well as state Sen. Bob Hasegawa and Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti. Nguyen is a progressive choice if you're looking for new leadership in the executive's office who will prioritize racial justice and systemic change.

Joe Nguyen

Sen. Joe Nguyen was elected to the Washington state Senate in 2018 and has worked as a senior program manager at Microsoft since 2013. His parents were refugees from Vietnam who came to White Center, where Nguyen was born and raised.

Endorsed By: APACE , Sage Leaders , The Stranger , The Urbanist

Non-Partisan
Joe Nguyen

Website Facebook Endorsements Twitter

Evergreen Future
Sen. Joe Nguyen was elected to the Washington state Senate in 2018 and has worked as a senior program manager at Microsoft since 2013. His parents were refugees from Vietnam who came to White Center, where Nguyen was born and raised.

During Nguyen's time in the Legislature, he has been an advocate for Washington's families and equality, including playing a leadership role in fully funding the Working Families Tax Credit. In addition, he co-sponsored legislation to require anti-racism and equity training in public schools.

Nguyen is running for county executive to implement sweeping actions on the affordable housing crisis, to reform the criminal justice system with deep changes and accountability, and to make the state's economy work for everyone, not just the wealthiest people. In particular, Nguyen has proposed to make all transit services free to improve access and increase ridership. He also wants to leverage the new Regional Homelessness Authority to significantly scale up the building of affordable housing.

Nguyen has the support of elected leaders including state Reps. Kirsten Harris-Talley and David Hackney as well as state Sen. Bob Hasegawa and Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti. Nguyen is a progressive choice if you're looking for new leadership in the executive's office who will prioritize racial justice and systemic change.

Endorsed By: APACE , Sage Leaders , The Stranger , The Urbanist

King County Council

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

King County Council, District #7

No Good Choices

There are no good choices in the race for King County Council in District 7. Incumbent Republican Pete Von Reichbauer has held this seat on the council for 28 years. Reichbauer has remained a conservative voice on the council and mostly focuses on issues of public space such as the construction of the Federal Way Transit Center and the recent Hylebos Wetlands protection project.

His challenger is Kent-based brewery owner Dominique Torgerson. Her limited platform is mostly a sharp critique of business regulations and environmental policies in the county and doesn't speak to most of the wide range of issues faced by the communities in King County.

Write in a progressive candidate of your choice in this race.

No Good Choices - King County Council District #7

There are no good choices in the race for King County Council in District 7. Incumbent Republican Pete Von Reichbauer has held this seat on the council for 28 years.

Port Races

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

Port of Seattle

Port of Seattle, Port Commissioner, Position #1

Ryan Calkins

Website Facebook Endorsements Twitter
Incumbent and businesses consultant Ryan Calkins has successfully pushed the port in a more progressive direction during his first term. The current Port of Seattle commissioners have enacted several crucial reforms over the last few years, including ensuring at least a $15 minimum wage for airline catering workers and starting an accelerator mentorship program aimed at increasing access to contracting jobs for women- and minority-owned businesses.

If re-elected, Calkins states that he will continue to lead on mitigating the environmental impacts of the airport and port operations, promoting living wage jobs, improving immigration policy, and more. He has earned broad support from progressive and Democratic Party organizations.

His opponent is Norman Sigler, the owner of a consulting firm that focuses on finding diverse executive leadership. He serves as a precinct committee officer and is on the executive board of the King County Democrats Central Committee. Sigler wants to focus the port on environmental and economic justice, stating that he would invest port profits into improving neighboring communities. He states that he would promote a green economy, work to end systemic racism and keep the port honest, but does not have as detailed of a policy agenda. For example, in a forum for Port of Seattle candidates, Sigler stated that he would seek "putting mandates" on cruises and airlines, while Calkins specifically stated that he would support electric aviation, cleaner fuels, and high-speed ground transportation over short flights.

Calkins has an excellent record on the port and broad support from the progressive community. Calkins is the best choice for Port of Seattle, Position #1.

Ryan Calkins

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

Incumbent and businesses consultant Ryan Calkins has successfully pushed the port in a more progressive direction during his first term.

Incumbent and businesses consultant Ryan Calkins has successfully pushed the port in a more progressive direction during his first term. The current Port of Seattle commissioners have enacted several crucial reforms over the last few years, including ensuring at least a $15 minimum wage for airline catering workers and starting an accelerator mentorship program aimed at increasing access to contracting jobs for women- and minority-owned businesses.

If re-elected, Calkins states that he will continue to lead on mitigating the environmental impacts of the airport and port operations, promoting living wage jobs, improving immigration policy, and more. He has earned broad support from progressive and Democratic Party organizations.

His opponent is Norman Sigler, the owner of a consulting firm that focuses on finding diverse executive leadership. He serves as a precinct committee officer and is on the executive board of the King County Democrats Central Committee. Sigler wants to focus the port on environmental and economic justice, stating that he would invest port profits into improving neighboring communities. He states that he would promote a green economy, work to end systemic racism and keep the port honest, but does not have as detailed of a policy agenda. For example, in a forum for Port of Seattle candidates, Sigler stated that he would seek "putting mandates" on cruises and airlines, while Calkins specifically stated that he would support electric aviation, cleaner fuels, and high-speed ground transportation over short flights.

Calkins has an excellent record on the port and broad support from the progressive community. Calkins is the best choice for Port of Seattle, Position #1.

Ryan Calkins

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

Incumbent and businesses consultant Ryan Calkins has successfully pushed the port in a more progressive direction during his first term.

Endorsed By: National Organization for Women PAC , M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO , SEIU Local 6 , SEIU 775 , SEIU Local 925 , Sierra Club , The Stranger , Teamsters Joint Council 28 , The Urbanist , UFCW 3000 , Washington Bikes , Washington Conservation Voters

Ryan Calkins

Website Facebook Endorsements Twitter
Incumbent and businesses consultant Ryan Calkins has successfully pushed the port in a more progressive direction during his first term. The current Port of Seattle commissioners have enacted several crucial reforms over the last few years, including ensuring at least a $15 minimum wage for airline catering workers and starting an accelerator mentorship program aimed at increasing access to contracting jobs for women- and minority-owned businesses.

If re-elected, Calkins states that he will continue to lead on mitigating the environmental impacts of the airport and port operations, promoting living wage jobs, improving immigration policy, and more. He has earned broad support from progressive and Democratic Party organizations.

His opponent is Norman Sigler, the owner of a consulting firm that focuses on finding diverse executive leadership. He serves as a precinct committee officer and is on the executive board of the King County Democrats Central Committee. Sigler wants to focus the port on environmental and economic justice, stating that he would invest port profits into improving neighboring communities. He states that he would promote a green economy, work to end systemic racism and keep the port honest, but does not have as detailed of a policy agenda. For example, in a forum for Port of Seattle candidates, Sigler stated that he would seek "putting mandates" on cruises and airlines, while Calkins specifically stated that he would support electric aviation, cleaner fuels, and high-speed ground transportation over short flights.

Calkins has an excellent record on the port and broad support from the progressive community. Calkins is the best choice for Port of Seattle, Position #1.

Port of Seattle, Port Commissioner, Position #3

Hamdi Mohamed

Website Facebook Endorsements Twitter
Hamdi Mohamed is running for Seattle Port Commissioner, Position 3 with a visionary agenda for the port that centers the needs of the workers, the environment, and the broader community. Mohamed's family fled Somalia and settled in the SeaTac region when she was 5 years old, with her mother working in the airport. Mohamed now works in the King County Office of Equity and Social Justice as a policy advisor and has helped manage the millions of dollars in COVID-19 relief funds that went to community-based organizations in King County.

As a resident of SeaTac, Mohamed lives in one of the communities most affected by airport pollution. Given that none of the current commissioners live in South King County, she seeks to bridge the gap between port policy and lived experience. She wants to expand the port's efforts to transition from fossil fuels to clean energy and restore habitats for salmon and orcas. Through greater direct partnership with workers, Mohamed wants to protect unions, provide pandemic relief, and prioritize workplace health.

In our interview with Mohamed, we were incredibly impressed by her drive to improve the lives of those who work and live near the port. One recent example of her accomplishment was her work with Beyoncé and Tina Knowles to provide free coronavirus testing and supplies to local organizations and working with the King County Immigrant and Refugee Commission to center language access in COVID-19 relief.

Mohamed is running against incumbent Stephanie Bowman, who has served on the commission since 2013. Bowman is proud of the port commission's progress on many fronts, including expanding youth job training opportunities in partnership with Seattle Public Schools, making stormwater improvements, and developing a noise insulation program for homes close to the airport. She states that one of her most important accomplishments was tripling the number of interns, many of which were youth of color from marginalized communities. If re-elected, Bowman would focus on improving economic opportunity at the port for all, including union members, women-owned businesses, lower-income workers, and more.

However, we were extremely disappointed when Bowman voted in 2015 to allow Shell Oil to base its arctic drilling operations in Seattle. In addition, she voted to use taxpayer money to file a legal challenge against SeaTac's $15 per hour minimum wage. In our interview with Bowman this year, she stated that she had been on the commission for less than six months before the wage increase vote, and believed that the council did not have the regulatory authority to make the change. On the Shell vote, she said that the commission was not transparent enough about it and that she would rather have ships come to Seattle ports where the environmental standards are the highest.

We believe Mohamed would be a stronger leader for progress at the port and would bring much-needed representation to the commission for South King County communities. We strongly support Hamdi Mohamed for her dedication to the community, her progressive agenda, and her backing by progressive organizations.

Hamdi Mohamed

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

Hamdi Mohamed is running for Seattle Port Commissioner, Position 3 with a visionary agenda for the port that centers the needs of the workers, the environment, and the broader community.

Hamdi Mohamed is running for Seattle Port Commissioner, Position 3 with a visionary agenda for the port that centers the needs of the workers, the environment, and the broader community. Mohamed's family fled Somalia and settled in the SeaTac region when she was 5 years old, with her mother working in the airport. Mohamed now works in the King County Office of Equity and Social Justice as a policy advisor and has helped manage the millions of dollars in COVID-19 relief funds that went to community-based organizations in King County.

As a resident of SeaTac, Mohamed lives in one of the communities most affected by airport pollution. Given that none of the current commissioners live in South King County, she seeks to bridge the gap between port policy and lived experience. She wants to expand the port's efforts to transition from fossil fuels to clean energy and restore habitats for salmon and orcas. Through greater direct partnership with workers, Mohamed wants to protect unions, provide pandemic relief, and prioritize workplace health.

In our interview with Mohamed, we were incredibly impressed by her drive to improve the lives of those who work and live near the port. One recent example of her accomplishment was her work with Beyoncé and Tina Knowles to provide free coronavirus testing and supplies to local organizations and working with the King County Immigrant and Refugee Commission to center language access in COVID-19 relief.

Mohamed is running against incumbent Stephanie Bowman, who has served on the commission since 2013. Bowman is proud of the port commission's progress on many fronts, including expanding youth job training opportunities in partnership with Seattle Public Schools, making stormwater improvements, and developing a noise insulation program for homes close to the airport. She states that one of her most important accomplishments was tripling the number of interns, many of which were youth of color from marginalized communities. If re-elected, Bowman would focus on improving economic opportunity at the port for all, including union members, women-owned businesses, lower-income workers, and more.

However, we were extremely disappointed when Bowman voted in 2015 to allow Shell Oil to base its arctic drilling operations in Seattle. In addition, she voted to use taxpayer money to file a legal challenge against SeaTac's $15 per hour minimum wage. In our interview with Bowman this year, she stated that she had been on the commission for less than six months before the wage increase vote, and believed that the council did not have the regulatory authority to make the change. On the Shell vote, she said that the commission was not transparent enough about it and that she would rather have ships come to Seattle ports where the environmental standards are the highest.

We believe Mohamed would be a stronger leader for progress at the port and would bring much-needed representation to the commission for South King County communities. We strongly support Hamdi Mohamed for her dedication to the community, her progressive agenda, and her backing by progressive organizations.

Hamdi Mohamed

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

Hamdi Mohamed is running for Seattle Port Commissioner, Position 3 with a visionary agenda for the port that centers the needs of the workers, the environment, and the broader community.

Endorsed By: APACE , The Washington Bus , Fuse , National Organization for Women PAC , M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO , OneAmerica Votes , Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates , Sage Leaders , SEIU Locals 6, 775, 925, and 1199 , The Stranger , Teamsters Joint Council 28 , The Urbanist , UFCW 3000 , Washington Bikes , Washington Conservation Voters

Hamdi Mohamed is running for Seattle Port Commissioner, Position 3 with a visionary agenda for the port that centers the needs of the workers, the environment, and the broader community. Mohamed's family fled Somalia and settled in the SeaTac region when she was 5 years old, with her mother working in the airport. Mohamed now works in the King County Office of Equity and Social Justice as a policy advisor and has helped manage the millions of dollars in COVID-19 relief funds that went to community-based organizations in King County.

As a resident of SeaTac, Mohamed lives in one of the communities most affected by airport pollution. Given that none of the current commissioners live in South King County, she seeks to bridge the gap between port policy and lived experience. She wants to expand the port's efforts to transition from fossil fuels to clean energy and restore habitats for salmon and orcas. Through greater direct partnership with workers, Mohamed wants to protect unions, provide pandemic relief, and prioritize workplace health.

In our interview with Mohamed, we were incredibly impressed by her drive to improve the lives of those who work and live near the port. One recent example of her accomplishment was her work with Beyoncé and Tina Knowles to provide free coronavirus testing and supplies to local organizations and working with the King County Immigrant and Refugee Commission to center language access in COVID-19 relief.

Mohamed is running against incumbent Stephanie Bowman, who has served on the commission since 2013. Bowman is proud of the port commission's progress on many fronts, including expanding youth job training opportunities in partnership with Seattle Public Schools, making stormwater improvements, and developing a noise insulation program for homes close to the airport. She states that one of her most important accomplishments was tripling the number of interns, many of which were youth of color from marginalized communities. If re-elected, Bowman would focus on improving economic opportunity at the port for all, including union members, women-owned businesses, lower-income workers, and more.

However, we were extremely disappointed when Bowman voted in 2015 to allow Shell Oil to base its arctic drilling operations in Seattle. In addition, she voted to use taxpayer money to file a legal challenge against SeaTac's $15 per hour minimum wage. In our interview with Bowman this year, she stated that she had been on the commission for less than six months before the wage increase vote, and believed that the council did not have the regulatory authority to make the change. On the Shell vote, she said that the commission was not transparent enough about it and that she would rather have ships come to Seattle ports where the environmental standards are the highest.

We believe Mohamed would be a stronger leader for progress at the port and would bring much-needed representation to the commission for South King County communities. We strongly support Hamdi Mohamed for her dedication to the community, her progressive agenda, and her backing by progressive organizations.

Hamdi Mohamed

Website Facebook Endorsements Twitter
Hamdi Mohamed is running for Seattle Port Commissioner, Position 3 with a visionary agenda for the port that centers the needs of the workers, the environment, and the broader community. Mohamed's family fled Somalia and settled in the SeaTac region when she was 5 years old, with her mother working in the airport. Mohamed now works in the King County Office of Equity and Social Justice as a policy advisor and has helped manage the millions of dollars in COVID-19 relief funds that went to community-based organizations in King County.

As a resident of SeaTac, Mohamed lives in one of the communities most affected by airport pollution. Given that none of the current commissioners live in South King County, she seeks to bridge the gap between port policy and lived experience. She wants to expand the port's efforts to transition from fossil fuels to clean energy and restore habitats for salmon and orcas. Through greater direct partnership with workers, Mohamed wants to protect unions, provide pandemic relief, and prioritize workplace health.

In our interview with Mohamed, we were incredibly impressed by her drive to improve the lives of those who work and live near the port. One recent example of her accomplishment was her work with Beyoncé and Tina Knowles to provide free coronavirus testing and supplies to local organizations and working with the King County Immigrant and Refugee Commission to center language access in COVID-19 relief.

Mohamed is running against incumbent Stephanie Bowman, who has served on the commission since 2013. Bowman is proud of the port commission's progress on many fronts, including expanding youth job training opportunities in partnership with Seattle Public Schools, making stormwater improvements, and developing a noise insulation program for homes close to the airport. She states that one of her most important accomplishments was tripling the number of interns, many of which were youth of color from marginalized communities. If re-elected, Bowman would focus on improving economic opportunity at the port for all, including union members, women-owned businesses, lower-income workers, and more.

However, we were extremely disappointed when Bowman voted in 2015 to allow Shell Oil to base its arctic drilling operations in Seattle. In addition, she voted to use taxpayer money to file a legal challenge against SeaTac's $15 per hour minimum wage. In our interview with Bowman this year, she stated that she had been on the commission for less than six months before the wage increase vote, and believed that the council did not have the regulatory authority to make the change. On the Shell vote, she said that the commission was not transparent enough about it and that she would rather have ships come to Seattle ports where the environmental standards are the highest.

We believe Mohamed would be a stronger leader for progress at the port and would bring much-needed representation to the commission for South King County communities. We strongly support Hamdi Mohamed for her dedication to the community, her progressive agenda, and her backing by progressive organizations.

Port of Seattle, Port Commissioner, Position #4

There are two good candidates in this race: Toshiko Grace Hasegawa and Peter Steinbrueck. We recommend Hasegawa for new leadership at the port because of her strong support from our Progressive Voters Guide partners.

Toshiko Grace Hasegawa

Website Facebook Endorsements Twitter
Toshiko Hasegawa is running for Port of Seattle, Position 4 to center the experiences of port workers and nearby communities in building a more equitable future for the port. She is the executive director of the Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs (CAPAA), which advises the governor, state agencies, and the state legislature on issues affecting Asian American communities. If either she or fellow candidate Hamdi Mohamed are elected, it will be the first time a woman of color has ever served on the Seattle Port Commission.

As executive director of CAPAA, Hasegawa and the rest of the commission helped support small businesses during the pandemic, provide relief to community-based organizations, and create a language access plan so that residents could access critical information. In our interview, Hasegawa spoke to how she wanted to expand and apply those equity processes to the port. She supports mental health care and paid family leave for workers, ongoing training, and apprenticeships programs, especially for women and people of color, who have been historically underrepresented in port employment. Hasegawa also wants to see an airport cities advisory group permanently established as the economy continues to rebuild and recover from the pandemic.

On environmental issues, Hasegawa would be an advocate for the port assisting in the construction of high-speed rail to cut down on short flights to nearby cities like Portland or Bellingham. She also wants to meaningfully engage the community in climate justice, including the tribes, and explore the possibility of using solar and wind at the port.

We join a compelling majority of progressive organizations in recommending Hasegawa to help usher in a new generation of leadership and for her inclusive vision for the future of the port.

Toshiko Grace Hasegawa

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

Toshiko Hasegawa is running for Port of Seattle, Position 4 to center the experiences of port workers and nearby communities in building a more equitable future for the port.

Toshiko Hasegawa is running for Port of Seattle, Position 4 to center the experiences of port workers and nearby communities in building a more equitable future for the port. She is the executive director of the Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs (CAPAA), which advises the governor, state agencies, and the state legislature on issues affecting Asian American communities. If either she or fellow candidate Hamdi Mohamed are elected, it will be the first time a woman of color has ever served on the Seattle Port Commission.

As executive director of CAPAA, Hasegawa and the rest of the commission helped support small businesses during the pandemic, provide relief to community-based organizations, and create a language access plan so that residents could access critical information. In our interview, Hasegawa spoke to how she wanted to expand and apply those equity processes to the port. She supports mental health care and paid family leave for workers, ongoing training, and apprenticeships programs, especially for women and people of color, who have been historically underrepresented in port employment. Hasegawa also wants to see an airport cities advisory group permanently established as the economy continues to rebuild and recover from the pandemic.

On environmental issues, Hasegawa would be an advocate for the port assisting in the construction of high-speed rail to cut down on short flights to nearby cities like Portland or Bellingham. She also wants to meaningfully engage the community in climate justice, including the tribes, and explore the possibility of using solar and wind at the port.

We join a compelling majority of progressive organizations in recommending Hasegawa to help usher in a new generation of leadership and for her inclusive vision for the future of the port.

Toshiko Grace Hasegawa

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

Toshiko Hasegawa is running for Port of Seattle, Position 4 to center the experiences of port workers and nearby communities in building a more equitable future for the port.

Endorsed By: APACE , The Washington Bus , National Organization for Women PAC , M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO , OneAmerica Votes , Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates , Sage Leaders , SEIU Locals 6, 775, 925, and 1199 , Sierra Club , The Stranger , Teamsters Joint Council 28 , The Urbanist , UFCW 3000 , Washington Conservation Voters , Alliance for Gun Responsibility

Toshiko Grace Hasegawa

Website Facebook Endorsements Twitter
Toshiko Hasegawa is running for Port of Seattle, Position 4 to center the experiences of port workers and nearby communities in building a more equitable future for the port. She is the executive director of the Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs (CAPAA), which advises the governor, state agencies, and the state legislature on issues affecting Asian American communities. If either she or fellow candidate Hamdi Mohamed are elected, it will be the first time a woman of color has ever served on the Seattle Port Commission.

As executive director of CAPAA, Hasegawa and the rest of the commission helped support small businesses during the pandemic, provide relief to community-based organizations, and create a language access plan so that residents could access critical information. In our interview, Hasegawa spoke to how she wanted to expand and apply those equity processes to the port. She supports mental health care and paid family leave for workers, ongoing training, and apprenticeships programs, especially for women and people of color, who have been historically underrepresented in port employment. Hasegawa also wants to see an airport cities advisory group permanently established as the economy continues to rebuild and recover from the pandemic.

On environmental issues, Hasegawa would be an advocate for the port assisting in the construction of high-speed rail to cut down on short flights to nearby cities like Portland or Bellingham. She also wants to meaningfully engage the community in climate justice, including the tribes, and explore the possibility of using solar and wind at the port.

We join a compelling majority of progressive organizations in recommending Hasegawa to help usher in a new generation of leadership and for her inclusive vision for the future of the port.

Peter Steinbrueck

Website Endorsements
Incumbent Peter Steinbrueck is running for his second term in Position 4 on the Seattle Port Commission. He is an architect and former Seattle City Council member who has also served on the boards of many organizations in his history of public service, including the Washington Environmental Council, AIA Center for Civic Leadership, and Walkable Livable Communities Institute.

If re-elected, Steinbrueck has vowed to push the status quo on the economic, social, and political issues that matter to everyone in the region. In our interview, he stated that he supports a just and fair transition to clean fuels, one that includes electrification at the port as well as reducing ultrafine particulates and other kinds of pollution. He points to the port's job and apprenticeship programs, many of which offer opportunities to youth of color, women, and others as indicators of the types of policies he wants to continue moving forward. Environmentalism is his great passion, he states, and he believes that as the port recovers from the pandemic and evolves that he would continue to support climate justice at all levels, from workers' health, habitat restoration, and more.

Peter Steinbrueck

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

Incumbent Peter Steinbrueck is running for his second term in Position 4 on the Seattle Port Commission.

Incumbent Peter Steinbrueck is running for his second term in Position 4 on the Seattle Port Commission. He is an architect and former Seattle City Council member who has also served on the boards of many organizations in his history of public service, including the Washington Environmental Council, AIA Center for Civic Leadership, and Walkable Livable Communities Institute.

If re-elected, Steinbrueck has vowed to push the status quo on the economic, social, and political issues that matter to everyone in the region. In our interview, he stated that he supports a just and fair transition to clean fuels, one that includes electrification at the port as well as reducing ultrafine particulates and other kinds of pollution. He points to the port's job and apprenticeship programs, many of which offer opportunities to youth of color, women, and others as indicators of the types of policies he wants to continue moving forward. Environmentalism is his great passion, he states, and he believes that as the port recovers from the pandemic and evolves that he would continue to support climate justice at all levels, from workers' health, habitat restoration, and more.

Peter Steinbrueck

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

Incumbent Peter Steinbrueck is running for his second term in Position 4 on the Seattle Port Commission.

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.

Port of Tacoma, Port Commissioner, Position #2

There are two qualified candidates running for Port of Tacoma, Position 2: Elizabeth Pew and Dick Marzano. We recommend Pew for new progressive leadership at the Port of Tacoma.

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.

Endorsed By: Sierra Club , Washington Conservation Voters

Dick Marzano

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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

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.

Endorsed By: National Organization for Women PAC , Washington Conservation Voters

Auburn Mayor

Nancy Backus

Website Facebook Endorsements Twitter
Nancy Backus is running unopposed for re-election to be mayor of Auburn. She was first elected in 2014 and previously served on the city council and as deputy mayor. In her time as mayor, Backus has assisted in awarding $200,000 in grants to local businesses and increasing the number of good-paying jobs in Auburn. She is promoting bringing jobs to the area, reducing traffic congestion, and expanding transportation options in her re-election campaign.

Backus is unopposed in the race for mayor of Auburn and deserves your vote.

Nancy Backus is running unopposed for re-election to be mayor of Auburn. She was first elected in 2014 and previously served on the city council and as deputy mayor. In her time as mayor, Backus has assisted in awarding $200,000 in grants to local businesses and increasing the number of good-paying jobs in Auburn. She is promoting bringing jobs to the area, reducing traffic congestion, and expanding transportation options in her re-election campaign.

Backus is unopposed in the race for mayor of Auburn and deserves your vote.

Nancy Backus is running unopposed for re-election to be mayor of Auburn. She was first elected in 2014 and previously served on the city council and as deputy mayor. In her time as mayor, Backus has assisted in awarding $200,000 in grants to local businesses and increasing the number of good-paying jobs in Auburn. She is promoting bringing jobs to the area, reducing traffic congestion, and expanding transportation options in her re-election campaign.

Backus is unopposed in the race for mayor of Auburn and deserves your vote.

Nancy Backus is running unopposed for re-election to be mayor of Auburn. She was first elected in 2014 and previously served on the city council and as deputy mayor. In her time as mayor, Backus has assisted in awarding $200,000 in grants to local businesses and increasing the number of good-paying jobs in Auburn. She is promoting bringing jobs to the area, reducing traffic congestion, and expanding transportation options in her re-election campaign.

Backus is unopposed in the race for mayor of Auburn and deserves your vote.

Endorsed By: Teamsters Joint Council 28

Auburn City Council

Auburn City Council, Position #2

Kate Baldwin

Website Facebook Endorsements
Kate Baldwin is running for Auburn City Council, Position 2. She works with IT departments for companies and public entities including REI and the City of Tacoma.

Baldwin's top campaign priorities include leading on a housing-first approach for people experiencing homelessness, supporting a sustainable growth plan, promoting economic development, and ensuring Auburn is a diverse community that brings safety for all, including safety from police violence.

Baldwin faces Wendee Odell, an army veteran, and former correctional officer with the Arizona Department of Corrections. Her platform contains conservative language stoking fear about crime and local public safety.

Baldwin is the best choice in this race for Auburn City Council, Position 2.

Kate Baldwin is running for Auburn City Council, Position 2. She works with IT departments for companies and public entities including REI and the City of Tacoma.

Baldwin's top campaign priorities include leading on a housing-first approach for people experiencing homelessness, supporting a sustainable growth plan, promoting economic development, and ensuring Auburn is a diverse community that brings safety for all, including safety from police violence.

Baldwin faces Wendee Odell, an army veteran, and former correctional officer with the Arizona Department of Corrections. Her platform contains conservative language stoking fear about crime and local public safety.

Baldwin is the best choice in this race for Auburn City Council, Position 2.

Kate Baldwin is running for Auburn City Council, Position 2. She works with IT departments for companies and public entities including REI and the City of Tacoma.

Baldwin's top campaign priorities include leading on a housing-first approach for people experiencing homelessness, supporting a sustainable growth plan, promoting economic development, and ensuring Auburn is a diverse community that brings safety for all, including safety from police violence.

Baldwin faces Wendee Odell, an army veteran, and former correctional officer with the Arizona Department of Corrections. Her platform contains conservative language stoking fear about crime and local public safety.

Baldwin is the best choice in this race for Auburn City Council, Position 2.

Kate Baldwin is running for Auburn City Council, Position 2. She works with IT departments for companies and public entities including REI and the City of Tacoma.

Baldwin's top campaign priorities include leading on a housing-first approach for people experiencing homelessness, supporting a sustainable growth plan, promoting economic development, and ensuring Auburn is a diverse community that brings safety for all, including safety from police violence.

Baldwin faces Wendee Odell, an army veteran, and former correctional officer with the Arizona Department of Corrections. Her platform contains conservative language stoking fear about crime and local public safety.

Baldwin is the best choice in this race for Auburn City Council, Position 2.

Endorsed By: M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO , Teamsters Joint Council 28 , King County Democrats

Auburn City Council, Position #4

Hanan Amer

Website Facebook
Hanan Amer is running for Auburn City Council, Position 4. Amer is a chemist for an aerospace company and has been volunteering locally for years at food banks, the White River Valley Museum, the Auburn and Muckleshoot libraries, and with the police department. She has also volunteered as a tax preparer for United Way of King County in the Auburn and Kent areas. Amer is endorsed by Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus and the 47th Legislative District Democrats and is running to make sure everyone can feel empowered and engaged in their communities.

Amer's opponent in this race is incumbent council member Yolanda Trout. Trout has been on the city council for seven years and previously served as the vice chair of the local Domestic Violence Initiative Regional Task Force from 2014 to 2016 and on Auburn’s Planning Commission from 2010 to 2013. She does not have a campaign website as of mid-October but her re-election platform includes supporting Auburn’s businesses, affordable housing, social justice, and economic growth. Unfortunately, Trout has taken a couple of bad votes including opposing the B&O tax, which would help the city avoid a revenue crisis by 2023, and opposing hazard pay for grocery store workers in the pandemic.

Amer is the best choice for Position 4 on the Auburn City Council.

Hanan Amer

Hanan Amer is running for Auburn City Council, Position 4. Amer is a chemist for an aerospace company and has been volunteering locally for years at food banks, the White River Valley Museum, the Auburn and Muckleshoot libraries, and with the police department.

Hanan Amer is running for Auburn City Council, Position 4. Amer is a chemist for an aerospace company and has been volunteering locally for years at food banks, the White River Valley Museum, the Auburn and Muckleshoot libraries, and with the police department. She has also volunteered as a tax preparer for United Way of King County in the Auburn and Kent areas. Amer is endorsed by Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus and the 47th Legislative District Democrats and is running to make sure everyone can feel empowered and engaged in their communities.

Amer's opponent in this race is incumbent council member Yolanda Trout. Trout has been on the city council for seven years and previously served as the vice chair of the local Domestic Violence Initiative Regional Task Force from 2014 to 2016 and on Auburn’s Planning Commission from 2010 to 2013. She does not have a campaign website as of mid-October but her re-election platform includes supporting Auburn’s businesses, affordable housing, social justice, and economic growth. Unfortunately, Trout has taken a couple of bad votes including opposing the B&O tax, which would help the city avoid a revenue crisis by 2023, and opposing hazard pay for grocery store workers in the pandemic.

Amer is the best choice for Position 4 on the Auburn City Council.

Hanan Amer

Hanan Amer is running for Auburn City Council, Position 4. Amer is a chemist for an aerospace company and has been volunteering locally for years at food banks, the White River Valley Museum, the Auburn and Muckleshoot libraries, and with the police department.

Endorsed By: M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO , OneAmerica Votes , King County Democrats, 30th Legislative District Democrats, 47th Legislative District Democrats, and 31st Legislative District Democrats

Auburn City Council, Position #6

Larry Brown

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Incumbent Larry Brown is running unopposed for re-election to Auburn City Council, Position 6. He is the president of the Washington State Labor Council and serves on the Valley Regional Fire Authority governing board. Brown has been a strong advocate for workers and supports increasing wages in Washington. In his second term, he will advocate for more public transit, transitional housing for people experiencing homelessness, and growing the local manufacturing sector.

Brown deserves your vote for Auburn City Council, Position 6.

Incumbent Larry Brown is running unopposed for re-election to Auburn City Council, Position 6. He is the president of the Washington State Labor Council and serves on the Valley Regional Fire Authority governing board. Brown has been a strong advocate for workers and supports increasing wages in Washington. In his second term, he will advocate for more public transit, transitional housing for people experiencing homelessness, and growing the local manufacturing sector.

Brown deserves your vote for Auburn City Council, Position 6.

Incumbent Larry Brown is running unopposed for re-election to Auburn City Council, Position 6. He is the president of the Washington State Labor Council and serves on the Valley Regional Fire Authority governing board. Brown has been a strong advocate for workers and supports increasing wages in Washington. In his second term, he will advocate for more public transit, transitional housing for people experiencing homelessness, and growing the local manufacturing sector.

Brown deserves your vote for Auburn City Council, Position 6.

Incumbent Larry Brown is running unopposed for re-election to Auburn City Council, Position 6. He is the president of the Washington State Labor Council and serves on the Valley Regional Fire Authority governing board. Brown has been a strong advocate for workers and supports increasing wages in Washington. In his second term, he will advocate for more public transit, transitional housing for people experiencing homelessness, and growing the local manufacturing sector.

Brown deserves your vote for Auburn City Council, Position 6.

Endorsed By: M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO , SEIU 775 , SEIU Local 925 , Teamsters Joint Council 28

Public Hospital District

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

King County, Public Hospital District 1

King County, Public Hospital District 1, Commissioner, District #2

Dustin Lambro

Website Facebook Endorsements
Dustin Lambro, president of the King County Labor Council and political director for Teamsters Local 117, is running for Public Hospital District No. 1 in District 2. Lambro has extensive community leadership experience and is a staunch workers’ rights advocate.

If elected, Lambro wants to restore a balance of power between UW Medicine and both its hospital staff and the community it serves. He would work to bring final decision authority back to the hospital commissioners elected by voters instead of trustees selected by the University of Washington. Additionally, Lambro would fight for the rights of frontline, health care workers to make sure that the hospital district has proper labor conditions.

Lambro is facing incumbent commissioner and veteran Jim Griggs, who currently serves as the president of the board of commissioners as well as the chair of the Finance & Audit Committee. Griggs formerly worked as an audit manager for the state's auditor’s office and is running on a vague platform to serve the valley, in his owns words, as a financial watchdog.

With his demonstrated progressive values and experience organizing for the public good, Dustin Lambro is the best choice for Public Hospital District 1, Commissioner in District 2.

Dustin Lambro

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

Dustin Lambro, president of the King County Labor Council and political director for Teamsters Local 117, is running for Public Hospital District No. 1 in District 2. Lambro has extensive community leadership experience and is a staunch workers’ rights advocate.

If elected, Lambro wants to restore a balance of power between UW Medicine and both its hospital staff and the community it serves. He would work to bring final decision authority back to the hospital commissioners elected by voters instead of trustees selected by the University of Washington. Additionally, Lambro would fight for the rights of frontline, health care workers to make sure that the hospital district has proper labor conditions.

Lambro is facing incumbent commissioner and veteran Jim Griggs, who currently serves as the president of the board of commissioners as well as the chair of the Finance & Audit Committee. Griggs formerly worked as an audit manager for the state's auditor’s office and is running on a vague platform to serve the valley, in his owns words, as a financial watchdog.

With his demonstrated progressive values and experience organizing for the public good, Dustin Lambro is the best choice for Public Hospital District 1, Commissioner in District 2.

Read more about Dustin Lambro

Public Hospital District

King County, Public Hospital District 1

Dustin Lambro, president of the King County Labor Council and political director for Teamsters Local 117, is running for Public Hospital District No. 1 in District 2. Lambro has extensive community leadership experience and is a staunch workers’ rights advocate.

If elected, Lambro wants to restore a balance of power between UW Medicine and both its hospital staff and the community it serves. He would work to bring final decision authority back to the hospital commissioners elected by voters instead of trustees selected by the University of Washington. Additionally, Lambro would fight for the rights of frontline, health care workers to make sure that the hospital district has proper labor conditions.

Lambro is facing incumbent commissioner and veteran Jim Griggs, who currently serves as the president of the board of commissioners as well as the chair of the Finance & Audit Committee. Griggs formerly worked as an audit manager for the state's auditor’s office and is running on a vague platform to serve the valley, in his owns words, as a financial watchdog.

With his demonstrated progressive values and experience organizing for the public good, Dustin Lambro is the best choice for Public Hospital District 1, Commissioner in District 2.

Dustin Lambro

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

Dustin Lambro, president of the King County Labor Council and political director for Teamsters Local 117, is running for Public Hospital District No. 1 in District 2. Lambro has extensive community leadership experience and is a staunch workers’ rights advocate.

If elected, Lambro wants to restore a balance of power between UW Medicine and both its hospital staff and the community it serves. He would work to bring final decision authority back to the hospital commissioners elected by voters instead of trustees selected by the University of Washington. Additionally, Lambro would fight for the rights of frontline, health care workers to make sure that the hospital district has proper labor conditions.

Lambro is facing incumbent commissioner and veteran Jim Griggs, who currently serves as the president of the board of commissioners as well as the chair of the Finance & Audit Committee. Griggs formerly worked as an audit manager for the state's auditor’s office and is running on a vague platform to serve the valley, in his owns words, as a financial watchdog.

With his demonstrated progressive values and experience organizing for the public good, Dustin Lambro is the best choice for Public Hospital District 1, Commissioner in District 2.

Read more about Dustin Lambro

Public Hospital District

King County, Public Hospital District 1

Endorsed By: M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO , SEIU Locals 775, 925, and 1199 , Teamsters Joint Council 28 , UFCW 3000

King County, Public Hospital District 1, Commissioner, Position #4

Monique Taylor-Swan
Monique Taylor-Swan is running for King County Hospital District 1, Commissioner Position 4. Taylor-Swan is a community leader who serves as a board member of the caregivers union SEIU 775 and a member of the Renton Inclusion Task Force. She currently works as a home care aide with Washington's Department of Social and Health Services.

Taylor-Swan is running for commissioner to work towards more accessible, quality care in Renton. She wants to focus on proper staffing and making pay more equitable between the highest-paid executives and underpaid nurses and staff. If elected, Taylor-Swan will use an inclusion and equity lens to make sure that everyone who needs it can access culturally competent care at Valley Medical Center.

Taylor-Swan is running against Katie Bachand, a birth and postpartum doula. Bachand has been posting extreme conspiracies for months about the pandemic and the COVID-19 vaccine. She has promoted fake treatments, including a horse dewormer, that have been rejected by the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In addition, Bachand participated in the January 6 insurrection in Washington D.C. that sought to overturn the 2020 election results. Bachand's dangerous views are completely disqualifying for elected office, especially as a hospital commissioner.

We recommend Monique Taylor-Swan because of her direct background in health care and her clear, progressive vision for the role.

Monique Taylor-Swan is running for King County Hospital District 1, Commissioner Position 4. Taylor-Swan is a community leader who serves as a board member of the caregivers union SEIU 775 and a member of the Renton Inclusion Task Force. She currently works as a home care aide with Washington's Department of Social and Health Services.

Taylor-Swan is running for commissioner to work towards more accessible, quality care in Renton. She wants to focus on proper staffing and making pay more equitable between the highest-paid executives and underpaid nurses and staff. If elected, Taylor-Swan will use an inclusion and equity lens to make sure that everyone who needs it can access culturally competent care at Valley Medical Center.

Taylor-Swan is running against Katie Bachand, a birth and postpartum doula. Bachand has been posting extreme conspiracies for months about the pandemic and the COVID-19 vaccine. She has promoted fake treatments, including a horse dewormer, that have been rejected by the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In addition, Bachand participated in the January 6 insurrection in Washington D.C. that sought to overturn the 2020 election results. Bachand's dangerous views are completely disqualifying for elected office, especially as a hospital commissioner.

We recommend Monique Taylor-Swan because of her direct background in health care and her clear, progressive vision for the role.

Monique Taylor-Swan is running for King County Hospital District 1, Commissioner Position 4. Taylor-Swan is a community leader who serves as a board member of the caregivers union SEIU 775 and a member of the Renton Inclusion Task Force. She currently works as a home care aide with Washington's Department of Social and Health Services.

Taylor-Swan is running for commissioner to work towards more accessible, quality care in Renton. She wants to focus on proper staffing and making pay more equitable between the highest-paid executives and underpaid nurses and staff. If elected, Taylor-Swan will use an inclusion and equity lens to make sure that everyone who needs it can access culturally competent care at Valley Medical Center.

Taylor-Swan is running against Katie Bachand, a birth and postpartum doula. Bachand has been posting extreme conspiracies for months about the pandemic and the COVID-19 vaccine. She has promoted fake treatments, including a horse dewormer, that have been rejected by the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In addition, Bachand participated in the January 6 insurrection in Washington D.C. that sought to overturn the 2020 election results. Bachand's dangerous views are completely disqualifying for elected office, especially as a hospital commissioner.

We recommend Monique Taylor-Swan because of her direct background in health care and her clear, progressive vision for the role.

Monique Taylor-Swan is running for King County Hospital District 1, Commissioner Position 4. Taylor-Swan is a community leader who serves as a board member of the caregivers union SEIU 775 and a member of the Renton Inclusion Task Force. She currently works as a home care aide with Washington's Department of Social and Health Services.

Taylor-Swan is running for commissioner to work towards more accessible, quality care in Renton. She wants to focus on proper staffing and making pay more equitable between the highest-paid executives and underpaid nurses and staff. If elected, Taylor-Swan will use an inclusion and equity lens to make sure that everyone who needs it can access culturally competent care at Valley Medical Center.

Taylor-Swan is running against Katie Bachand, a birth and postpartum doula. Bachand has been posting extreme conspiracies for months about the pandemic and the COVID-19 vaccine. She has promoted fake treatments, including a horse dewormer, that have been rejected by the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In addition, Bachand participated in the January 6 insurrection in Washington D.C. that sought to overturn the 2020 election results. Bachand's dangerous views are completely disqualifying for elected office, especially as a hospital commissioner.

We recommend Monique Taylor-Swan because of her direct background in health care and her clear, progressive vision for the role.

Endorsed By: M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO , SEIU Locals 6, 775, 925, and 1199 , UFCW 3000

King County, Public Hospital District 2

King County, Public Hospital District 2, Commissioner, Position #4

Katie Grainger

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Katie Grainger is running for King County Public Hospital District 2, Commissioner Position 4. Grainger works as a communications consultant with Clinical Care at Providence. She was the first in her family to receive a college degree and went on to earn a master's at the University of Washington. Additionally, Grainger serves as an ambassador with the Sjogren's Syndrome Foundation.

Grainger believes her experience living with an autoimmune disease paired with her work at a health care nonprofit makes her well-poised to bridge hospital administration and patient needs while bringing a community focus. If elected, she wants to work on health care reform at the local level in the service of the health and wellbeing of all district residents.

Grainger is facing retired emergency doctor Charles Pilcher. He was elected to Commissioner Position 4 in 2010 and is running to cut funding for services. While Pilcher is the only physician on the board, he does not appear to be a progressive choice.

Katie Grainger is the best candidate for King County Public Hospital District 2, Commissioner Position 4.

Katie Grainger

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

Katie Grainger is running for King County Public Hospital District 2, Commissioner Position 4. Grainger works as a communications consultant with Clinical Care at Providence. She was the first in her family to receive a college degree and went on to earn a master's at the University of Washington. Additionally, Grainger serves as an ambassador with the Sjogren's Syndrome Foundation.

Grainger believes her experience living with an autoimmune disease paired with her work at a health care nonprofit makes her well-poised to bridge hospital administration and patient needs while bringing a community focus. If elected, she wants to work on health care reform at the local level in the service of the health and wellbeing of all district residents.

Grainger is facing retired emergency doctor Charles Pilcher. He was elected to Commissioner Position 4 in 2010 and is running to cut funding for services. While Pilcher is the only physician on the board, he does not appear to be a progressive choice.

Katie Grainger is the best candidate for King County Public Hospital District 2, Commissioner Position 4.

Read more about Katie Grainger

Public Hospital District

King County, Public Hospital District 2

Katie Grainger is running for King County Public Hospital District 2, Commissioner Position 4. Grainger works as a communications consultant with Clinical Care at Providence. She was the first in her family to receive a college degree and went on to earn a master's at the University of Washington. Additionally, Grainger serves as an ambassador with the Sjogren's Syndrome Foundation.

Grainger believes her experience living with an autoimmune disease paired with her work at a health care nonprofit makes her well-poised to bridge hospital administration and patient needs while bringing a community focus. If elected, she wants to work on health care reform at the local level in the service of the health and wellbeing of all district residents.

Grainger is facing retired emergency doctor Charles Pilcher. He was elected to Commissioner Position 4 in 2010 and is running to cut funding for services. While Pilcher is the only physician on the board, he does not appear to be a progressive choice.

Katie Grainger is the best candidate for King County Public Hospital District 2, Commissioner Position 4.

Katie Grainger

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

Katie Grainger is running for King County Public Hospital District 2, Commissioner Position 4. Grainger works as a communications consultant with Clinical Care at Providence. She was the first in her family to receive a college degree and went on to earn a master's at the University of Washington. Additionally, Grainger serves as an ambassador with the Sjogren's Syndrome Foundation.

Grainger believes her experience living with an autoimmune disease paired with her work at a health care nonprofit makes her well-poised to bridge hospital administration and patient needs while bringing a community focus. If elected, she wants to work on health care reform at the local level in the service of the health and wellbeing of all district residents.

Grainger is facing retired emergency doctor Charles Pilcher. He was elected to Commissioner Position 4 in 2010 and is running to cut funding for services. While Pilcher is the only physician on the board, he does not appear to be a progressive choice.

Katie Grainger is the best candidate for King County Public Hospital District 2, Commissioner Position 4.

Read more about Katie Grainger

Public Hospital District

King County, Public Hospital District 2

Endorsed By: 48th Legislative District Democrats

Nancy Backus

Nancy Backus

Nancy Backus

Vote Maintained to strengthen mental health crisis support

Advisory Vote 36

Vote Maintained to balance our tax code

Advisory Vote 37

Vote Maintained to close a tax loophole for insurance companies

Advisory Vote 38

Dow Constantine

Joe Nguyen

No Good Choices - King County Council District #7

Port Races

Ryan Calkins

Hamdi Mohamed

Toshiko Grace Hasegawa

Peter Steinbrueck

No Recommendation - Port of Tacoma

Elizabeth Pew

Dick Marzano

Mary Bacon

Nancy Backus

Kate Baldwin

Hanan Amer

Larry Brown

Public Hospital District

Dustin Lambro

Monique Taylor-Swan

Katie Grainger

Thanks for voting!