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  • Tola Marts

  • Tola Marts is running unopposed for re-election to Issaquah City Council, Position 7. Councilmember Marts has served in this seat since 2009 and as council president in 2012, 2018, and 2019. He is also the director of engineering at an aerospace research company.

    On the council, he supported the distribution of funds to help local businesses make it through the COVID-19 pandemic. Marts' priorities if re-elected include attracting good-paying jobs and more housing for the community's workers and working families.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Tola Marts is running unopposed for re-election to Issaquah City Council, Position 7. Councilmember Marts has served in this seat since 2009 and as council president in 2012, 2018, and 2019. He is also the director of engineering at an aerospace research company.

    On the council, he supported the distribution of funds to help local businesses make it through the COVID-19 pandemic. Marts' priorities if re-elected include attracting good-paying jobs and more housing for the community's workers and working families.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Tola Marts is running unopposed for re-election to Issaquah City Council, Position 7. Councilmember Marts has served in this seat since 2009 and as council president in 2012, 2018, and 2019. He is also the director of engineering at an aerospace research company.

    On the council, he supported the distribution of funds to help local businesses make it through the COVID-19 pandemic. Marts' priorities if re-elected include attracting good-paying jobs and more housing for the community's workers and working families.
    Tola Marts is running unopposed for re-election to Issaquah City Council, Position 7. Councilmember Marts has served in this seat since 2009 and as council president in 2012, 2018, and 2019. He is also the director of engineering at an aerospace research company.

    On the council, he supported the distribution of funds to help local businesses make it through the COVID-19 pandemic. Marts' priorities if re-elected include attracting good-paying jobs and more housing for the community's workers and working families.
  • 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.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    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.

    State Advisory Vote No. 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.

  • Endorsed By The Stranger
  • 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.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    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.

    State Advisory Vote No. 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.

  • Endorsed By The Stranger
  • 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.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    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.

    State Advisory Vote No. 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.

  • Endorsed By The Stranger
  • VOTE APPROVED

    Vote YES for equity and inclusion

  • King County Charter Amendment 1 proposes a revision to fix a grammatical error and to update the language to better reflect the values and community of King County. Specifically, the amendment would add “for all” and “equitable” into the county charter's preamble in order to demonstrate the county’s commitment to serving all residents. It would also include the addition of “protect and enhance” and “promote a superior quality of life” which further emphasize the county government’s purpose to meet community needs and strengthen regional services so that residents can thrive.

    The King County Charter defines the responsibilities of county government and the relationship it has to voters. With the proposed language updates to the preamble, the charter will better reflect its role as a service provider focused on improving the quality of life for all residents in an equitable manner.

    Vote “Yes” to approve Amendment 1 to the King County Charter.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    King County Charter Amendment 1 proposes a revision to fix a grammatical error and to update the language to better reflect the values and community of King County. Specifically, the amendment would add “for all” and “equitable” into the county charter's preamble in order to demonstrate the county’s commitment to serving all residents. It would also include the addition of “protect and enhance” and “promote a superior quality of life” which further emphasize the county government’s purpose to meet community needs and strengthen regional services so that residents can thrive.

    The King County Charter defines the responsibilities of county government and the relationship it has to voters. With the proposed language updates to the preamble, the charter will better reflect its role as a service provider focused on improving the quality of life for all residents in an equitable manner.

    Vote “Yes” to approve Amendment 1 to the King County Charter.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    King County Charter Amendment 1 proposes a revision to fix a grammatical error and to update the language to better reflect the values and community of King County. Specifically, the amendment would add “for all” and “equitable” into the county charter's preamble in order to demonstrate the county’s commitment to serving all residents. It would also include the addition of “protect and enhance” and “promote a superior quality of life” which further emphasize the county government’s purpose to meet community needs and strengthen regional services so that residents can thrive.

    The King County Charter defines the responsibilities of county government and the relationship it has to voters. With the proposed language updates to the preamble, the charter will better reflect its role as a service provider focused on improving the quality of life for all residents in an equitable manner.

    Vote “Yes” to approve Amendment 1 to the King County Charter.

    King County Charter Amendment 1 proposes a revision to fix a grammatical error and to update the language to better reflect the values and community of King County. Specifically, the amendment would add “for all” and “equitable” into the county charter's preamble in order to demonstrate the county’s commitment to serving all residents. It would also include the addition of “protect and enhance” and “promote a superior quality of life” which further emphasize the county government’s purpose to meet community needs and strengthen regional services so that residents can thrive.

    The King County Charter defines the responsibilities of county government and the relationship it has to voters. With the proposed language updates to the preamble, the charter will better reflect its role as a service provider focused on improving the quality of life for all residents in an equitable manner.

    Vote “Yes” to approve Amendment 1 to the King County Charter.

  • Endorsed By The Stranger
  • VOTE APPROVED

    Vote YES to clarify rules for county intitiatives

  • King County Charter Amendment 2 would bring the county into compliance with state law on timelines for initiatives, referenda, and charter ballot measures. The amendment would also provide greater clarity around the terms associated with, and process for, measures.

    Currently, the charter allows for voters to submit initiatives and referenda to the King County Council that may be adopted or put on the ballot. With this update to the language of the charter, voters will better understand the rules around submission and those rules will be in clearer alignment on state and county levels.

    Vote “Yes” to “Approve” Amendment 2 to the King County Charter which will improve the initiatives, referenda, and ballot measure process for voters and county government.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    King County Charter Amendment 2 would bring the county into compliance with state law on timelines for initiatives, referenda, and charter ballot measures. The amendment would also provide greater clarity around the terms associated with, and process for, measures.

    Currently, the charter allows for voters to submit initiatives and referenda to the King County Council that may be adopted or put on the ballot. With this update to the language of the charter, voters will better understand the rules around submission and those rules will be in clearer alignment on state and county levels.

    Vote “Yes” to “Approve” Amendment 2 to the King County Charter which will improve the initiatives, referenda, and ballot measure process for voters and county government.

    King County Charter Amendment 2 would bring the county into compliance with state law on timelines for initiatives, referenda, and charter ballot measures. The amendment would also provide greater clarity around the terms associated with, and process for, measures.

    Currently, the charter allows for voters to submit initiatives and referenda to the King County Council that may be adopted or put on the ballot. With this update to the language of the charter, voters will better understand the rules around submission and those rules will be in clearer alignment on state and county levels.

    Vote “Yes” to “Approve” Amendment 2 to the King County Charter which will improve the initiatives, referenda, and ballot measure process for voters and county government.

    King County Charter Amendment No. 2

    King County Charter Amendment 2 would bring the county into compliance with state law on timelines for initiatives, referenda, and charter ballot measures. The amendment would also provide greater clarity around the terms associated with, and process for, measures.

  • Endorsed By The Stranger
  • 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.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    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.

  • 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.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    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.

County Council District Races

Depending on the county district you live in, you may have the following races on your ballot.

  • Evergreen Future
  • Sarah Perry is a small business owner, nonprofit fundraiser, and Democratic activist who is challenging incumbent Kathy Lambert for King County Council in District 3. Perry has years of experience building financial support for nonprofits and universities in the Puget Sound area.

    Perry is running on a platform of supporting small businesses, protecting farmlands and the environment, and improving transportation. In particular, she wants to provide more support for the 40% of the district in unincorporated King County that can't rely on city leadership for investments and infrastructure. In our interview with Perry, she presented a detailed overview of her campaign as a strong advocate for growth management. She wants to promote urban forests, preserve the district's natural areas, usher in alternative energy sources, and improve wastewater and storm runoff in open spaces. Perry also wants to see an equity lens brought to COVID recovery, ensuring that new modes of transit are brought to the district, supporting behavioral health, and assisting those struggling with affordable housing.

    While the King County Council is officially non-partisan, Perry's opponent, longtime Republican Kathy Lambert, has lost touch with this diverse and rapidly changing district. Lambert has voted against transit access for years, including voting to end Seattle's downtown free-ride zone. She also voted against making the county sheriff an appointed position, which was proposed to give the council and county executive more oversight in the wake of protests against police brutality. Lambert was the only "no" vote on the 2019 bill to use state money to fund early learning, post-secondary education, and in-home care providers.

     

    Lambert received broad criticism in early October for a mail piece from her campaign that singled out the only Black member of the King County Council with fear-mongering and divisive language. All six Democrats on the council, as well as King County Executive Dow Constantine, denounced the attack and said it has no place in our public discourse. 

     

    We need to elect leaders who will bring people together to create meaningful change, not tear each other down and divide us with hateful rhetoric. Perry's extensive civic engagement and track record of collaboration has earned her overwhelming support from community leaders and progressive organizations. Vote for Perry for new progressive leadership on the King County Council from District 3.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Sarah Perry

    Sarah Perry is a small business owner, nonprofit fundraiser, and Democratic activist who is challenging incumbent Kathy Lambert for King County Council in District 3. Perry has years of experience building financial support for nonprofits and universities in the Puget Sound area.

    Sarah Perry is a small business owner, nonprofit fundraiser, and Democratic activist who is challenging incumbent Kathy Lambert for King County Council in District 3. Perry has years of experience building financial support for nonprofits and universities in the Puget Sound area.

    Perry is running on a platform of supporting small businesses, protecting farmlands and the environment, and improving transportation. In particular, she wants to provide more support for the 40% of the district in unincorporated King County that can't rely on city leadership for investments and infrastructure. In our interview with Perry, she presented a detailed overview of her campaign as a strong advocate for growth management. She wants to promote urban forests, preserve the district's natural areas, usher in alternative energy sources, and improve wastewater and storm runoff in open spaces. Perry also wants to see an equity lens brought to COVID recovery, ensuring that new modes of transit are brought to the district, supporting behavioral health, and assisting those struggling with affordable housing.

    While the King County Council is officially non-partisan, Perry's opponent, longtime Republican Kathy Lambert, has lost touch with this diverse and rapidly changing district. Lambert has voted against transit access for years, including voting to end Seattle's downtown free-ride zone. She also voted against making the county sheriff an appointed position, which was proposed to give the council and county executive more oversight in the wake of protests against police brutality. Lambert was the only "no" vote on the 2019 bill to use state money to fund early learning, post-secondary education, and in-home care providers.

     

    Lambert received broad criticism in early October for a mail piece from her campaign that singled out the only Black member of the King County Council with fear-mongering and divisive language. All six Democrats on the council, as well as King County Executive Dow Constantine, denounced the attack and said it has no place in our public discourse. 

     

    We need to elect leaders who will bring people together to create meaningful change, not tear each other down and divide us with hateful rhetoric. Perry's extensive civic engagement and track record of collaboration has earned her overwhelming support from community leaders and progressive organizations. Vote for Perry for new progressive leadership on the King County Council from District 3.

    Sarah Perry

    Sarah Perry is a small business owner, nonprofit fundraiser, and Democratic activist who is challenging incumbent Kathy Lambert for King County Council in District 3. Perry has years of experience building financial support for nonprofits and universities in the Puget Sound area.

  • Evergreen Future
  • Kim-Khanh Van is a current Renton City Council member who is running for King County Council in District 9 to bring her experience and dedication to the county. After her family escaped Vietnam as refugees and settled in King County, she went on to earn her doctorate and become an attorney. Van credits the community for her successes and wants to provide families and residents with healthy, livable communities that include child care access and infrastructure maintenance. Outside of her work on the city council, Van serves in a multitude of organizations, including as a PTA president, a volunteer attorney with the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project, and the co-founder of AAPI Against Hate.

    Van has demonstrated that she is willing to take tough public votes on behalf of the most vulnerable in the community. She was one of only two members of the Renton City Council who voted to maintain the Red Lion Hotel as a source of housing for residents experiencing homelessness. In our interview, we were impressed with her in-depth knowledge about the issue and her desire to lead as a consensus and coalition builder at the county level. She wants to do more to educate voters on the economic and social benefits of providing supportive, stable housing early, rather than jailing people experiencing homelessness.

    Van has done much advocacy work for marginalized communities. She understands the struggles that the Black, Latino, and Asian-Pacific Islander communities have faced historically and in the present, and vows to continue to stand with residents to make the county a place of opportunity for all.

    Her opponent is Republican incumbent Reagan Dunn, who has served on the council since he was appointed and later elected to the position in 2005. Before that, he worked as a federal prosecutor appointed by President George W. Bush and was the national coordinator of a Department of Justice program that increases policing in neighborhoods. Dunn challenged Bob Ferguson in the 2012 race for attorney general and lost.

    On the council, Dunn has been a consistent voice opposing the progressive reforms proposed by the rest of the council. In March, Dunn was the lone vote against giving grocery store workers $4 per hour hazard pay for their service on the front lines of the pandemic. In addition, Dunn was a vocal opponent of streamlining homelessness services between Seattle and King County. Instead, he proposed spending $1 million of taxpayer money on bus tickets to send people experiencing homelessness to other states, another shortsighted proposal that failed to address the root causes of the issue. In this campaign, he has emphasized his prosecutorial background and longstanding support of law enforcement without talking about how to increase accountability for law enforcement.

    Van's strong experience and progressive values make her the best choice for King County Council in District 9.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Kim-Khanh Van

    Kim-Khanh Van is a current Renton City Council member who is running for King County Council in District 9 to bring her experience and dedication to the county. After her family escaped Vietnam as refugees and settled in King County, she went on to earn her doctorate and become an attorney.

    Kim-Khanh Van is a current Renton City Council member who is running for King County Council in District 9 to bring her experience and dedication to the county. After her family escaped Vietnam as refugees and settled in King County, she went on to earn her doctorate and become an attorney. Van credits the community for her successes and wants to provide families and residents with healthy, livable communities that include child care access and infrastructure maintenance. Outside of her work on the city council, Van serves in a multitude of organizations, including as a PTA president, a volunteer attorney with the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project, and the co-founder of AAPI Against Hate.

    Van has demonstrated that she is willing to take tough public votes on behalf of the most vulnerable in the community. She was one of only two members of the Renton City Council who voted to maintain the Red Lion Hotel as a source of housing for residents experiencing homelessness. In our interview, we were impressed with her in-depth knowledge about the issue and her desire to lead as a consensus and coalition builder at the county level. She wants to do more to educate voters on the economic and social benefits of providing supportive, stable housing early, rather than jailing people experiencing homelessness.

    Van has done much advocacy work for marginalized communities. She understands the struggles that the Black, Latino, and Asian-Pacific Islander communities have faced historically and in the present, and vows to continue to stand with residents to make the county a place of opportunity for all.

    Her opponent is Republican incumbent Reagan Dunn, who has served on the council since he was appointed and later elected to the position in 2005. Before that, he worked as a federal prosecutor appointed by President George W. Bush and was the national coordinator of a Department of Justice program that increases policing in neighborhoods. Dunn challenged Bob Ferguson in the 2012 race for attorney general and lost.

    On the council, Dunn has been a consistent voice opposing the progressive reforms proposed by the rest of the council. In March, Dunn was the lone vote against giving grocery store workers $4 per hour hazard pay for their service on the front lines of the pandemic. In addition, Dunn was a vocal opponent of streamlining homelessness services between Seattle and King County. Instead, he proposed spending $1 million of taxpayer money on bus tickets to send people experiencing homelessness to other states, another shortsighted proposal that failed to address the root causes of the issue. In this campaign, he has emphasized his prosecutorial background and longstanding support of law enforcement without talking about how to increase accountability for law enforcement.

    Van's strong experience and progressive values make her the best choice for King County Council in District 9.

    Kim-Khanh Van

    Kim-Khanh Van is a current Renton City Council member who is running for King County Council in District 9 to bring her experience and dedication to the county. After her family escaped Vietnam as refugees and settled in King County, she went on to earn her doctorate and become an attorney.

  • 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.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    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.

  • 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.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    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.

  • 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. 

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    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.

  • 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.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    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.

  • Mary Lou Pauly is running unopposed for re-election to be mayor of Issaquah. Pauly was elected mayor in 2018 and previously served as deputy city council president and as vice-chair of the Eastside Fire and Rescue Board. As mayor, she has worked to balance growth with protecting Issaquah's environment and championed vaccine accessibility for everyone. Pauly's top priorities for her re-election campaign are increased transportation and mobility, as well as environmentally-friendly practices and public safety.

    Pauly has earned another term as mayor of Issaquah.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Mary Lou Pauly is running unopposed for re-election to be mayor of Issaquah. Pauly was elected mayor in 2018 and previously served as deputy city council president and as vice-chair of the Eastside Fire and Rescue Board. As mayor, she has worked to balance growth with protecting Issaquah's environment and championed vaccine accessibility for everyone. Pauly's top priorities for her re-election campaign are increased transportation and mobility, as well as environmentally-friendly practices and public safety.

    Pauly has earned another term as mayor of Issaquah.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Mary Lou Pauly is running unopposed for re-election to be mayor of Issaquah. Pauly was elected mayor in 2018 and previously served as deputy city council president and as vice-chair of the Eastside Fire and Rescue Board. As mayor, she has worked to balance growth with protecting Issaquah's environment and championed vaccine accessibility for everyone. Pauly's top priorities for her re-election campaign are increased transportation and mobility, as well as environmentally-friendly practices and public safety.

    Pauly has earned another term as mayor of Issaquah.

    Mary Lou Pauly is running unopposed for re-election to be mayor of Issaquah. Pauly was elected mayor in 2018 and previously served as deputy city council president and as vice-chair of the Eastside Fire and Rescue Board. As mayor, she has worked to balance growth with protecting Issaquah's environment and championed vaccine accessibility for everyone. Pauly's top priorities for her re-election campaign are increased transportation and mobility, as well as environmentally-friendly practices and public safety.

    Pauly has earned another term as mayor of Issaquah.

  • Endorsed By: Sierra Club
  • Chris Reh is running unopposed for re-election to Issaquah City Council, Position 1. He was elected to the city council in 2018 and serves as deputy council president. In his time on the council, Reh has worked to improve mobility in Issaquah and create conditions for both people and local businesses to thrive. Reh's campaign is emphasizing transparent communication between city council members and the community and improving services that align with the needs of people in Issaquah.

    Reh is unopposed in this race and is a solid choice for Issaquah City Council, Position 1.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Chris Reh is running unopposed for re-election to Issaquah City Council, Position 1. He was elected to the city council in 2018 and serves as deputy council president. In his time on the council, Reh has worked to improve mobility in Issaquah and create conditions for both people and local businesses to thrive. Reh's campaign is emphasizing transparent communication between city council members and the community and improving services that align with the needs of people in Issaquah.

    Reh is unopposed in this race and is a solid choice for Issaquah City Council, Position 1.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Chris Reh is running unopposed for re-election to Issaquah City Council, Position 1. He was elected to the city council in 2018 and serves as deputy council president. In his time on the council, Reh has worked to improve mobility in Issaquah and create conditions for both people and local businesses to thrive. Reh's campaign is emphasizing transparent communication between city council members and the community and improving services that align with the needs of people in Issaquah.

    Reh is unopposed in this race and is a solid choice for Issaquah City Council, Position 1.
    Chris Reh is running unopposed for re-election to Issaquah City Council, Position 1. He was elected to the city council in 2018 and serves as deputy council president. In his time on the council, Reh has worked to improve mobility in Issaquah and create conditions for both people and local businesses to thrive. Reh's campaign is emphasizing transparent communication between city council members and the community and improving services that align with the needs of people in Issaquah.

    Reh is unopposed in this race and is a solid choice for Issaquah City Council, Position 1.
  • Barbara de Michele is running for re-election to Issaquah City Council, Position 3. She was elected to the city council in 2019. De Michele previously served on the Issaquah School District Board of Directors, including twice as board president, and spent 12 years on the Issaquah Arts Commission. In her time on the council, de Michele has focused her efforts on increasing affordability in the area, improving transit and roads, and helping local human service providers and nonprofits handle community needs. De Michele's detailed campaign platform prioritizes affordable housing, increased mobility options for residents and workers, and recognizing Issaquah as a welcoming community.

    De Michele is running unopposed and deserves your vote for Issaquah City Council, Position 3.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Barbara de Michele is running for re-election to Issaquah City Council, Position 3. She was elected to the city council in 2019. De Michele previously served on the Issaquah School District Board of Directors, including twice as board president, and spent 12 years on the Issaquah Arts Commission. In her time on the council, de Michele has focused her efforts on increasing affordability in the area, improving transit and roads, and helping local human service providers and nonprofits handle community needs. De Michele's detailed campaign platform prioritizes affordable housing, increased mobility options for residents and workers, and recognizing Issaquah as a welcoming community.

    De Michele is running unopposed and deserves your vote for Issaquah City Council, Position 3.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Barbara de Michele is running for re-election to Issaquah City Council, Position 3. She was elected to the city council in 2019. De Michele previously served on the Issaquah School District Board of Directors, including twice as board president, and spent 12 years on the Issaquah Arts Commission. In her time on the council, de Michele has focused her efforts on increasing affordability in the area, improving transit and roads, and helping local human service providers and nonprofits handle community needs. De Michele's detailed campaign platform prioritizes affordable housing, increased mobility options for residents and workers, and recognizing Issaquah as a welcoming community.

    De Michele is running unopposed and deserves your vote for Issaquah City Council, Position 3.

    Barbara de Michele is running for re-election to Issaquah City Council, Position 3. She was elected to the city council in 2019. De Michele previously served on the Issaquah School District Board of Directors, including twice as board president, and spent 12 years on the Issaquah Arts Commission. In her time on the council, de Michele has focused her efforts on increasing affordability in the area, improving transit and roads, and helping local human service providers and nonprofits handle community needs. De Michele's detailed campaign platform prioritizes affordable housing, increased mobility options for residents and workers, and recognizing Issaquah as a welcoming community.

    De Michele is running unopposed and deserves your vote for Issaquah City Council, Position 3.

  • Endorsed By: SEIU Local 925, Sierra Club
  • Software developer Rose Zibrat is running on a very progressive platform that includes tenant rights, police reform, workers’ rights, public transportation, and social equity. She wants to see Eastside residents receive more hours of King County Metro service and supports rewriting land-use codes to reflect the importance of environmental conservation. She has never held elected office but notes herself as a volunteer in the King County voters' pamphlet.

    Zibrat is a good choice for Issaquah City Council, Position 5 if you are looking for a candidate with an exceptionally progressive platform.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Rose Zibrat

    Software developer Rose Zibrat is running on a very progressive platform that includes tenant rights, police reform, workers’ rights, public transportation, and social equity.

    Software developer Rose Zibrat is running on a very progressive platform that includes tenant rights, police reform, workers’ rights, public transportation, and social equity. She wants to see Eastside residents receive more hours of King County Metro service and supports rewriting land-use codes to reflect the importance of environmental conservation. She has never held elected office but notes herself as a volunteer in the King County voters' pamphlet.

    Zibrat is a good choice for Issaquah City Council, Position 5 if you are looking for a candidate with an exceptionally progressive platform.

    Rose Zibrat

    Software developer Rose Zibrat is running on a very progressive platform that includes tenant rights, police reform, workers’ rights, public transportation, and social equity.

  • Russell Joe, a municipal relationship manager, is seeking to fill Position 5 on the Issaquah City Council, which was left vacant by Stacy Goodman. Joe is an attorney who has served as a prosecutor for Eastside cities as well as a former council member for the city of Issaquah from 2000 to 2007. Previously, Joe was the chief administrative officer of the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Washington. While Joe hasn't released a detailed platform, he has earned the endorsements of local leaders including Rep. Bill Ramos.

    Joe is a good choice for Issaquah City Council, Position 5 if you are looking for a candidate with support from local elected officials.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Russell Joe

    Russell Joe, a municipal relationship manager, is seeking to fill Position 5 on the Issaquah City Council, which was left vacant by Stacy Goodman. Joe is an attorney who has served as a prosecutor for Eastside cities as well as a former council member for the city of Issaquah from 2000 to 2007.

    Russell Joe, a municipal relationship manager, is seeking to fill Position 5 on the Issaquah City Council, which was left vacant by Stacy Goodman. Joe is an attorney who has served as a prosecutor for Eastside cities as well as a former council member for the city of Issaquah from 2000 to 2007. Previously, Joe was the chief administrative officer of the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Washington. While Joe hasn't released a detailed platform, he has earned the endorsements of local leaders including Rep. Bill Ramos.

    Joe is a good choice for Issaquah City Council, Position 5 if you are looking for a candidate with support from local elected officials.

    Russell Joe

    Russell Joe, a municipal relationship manager, is seeking to fill Position 5 on the Issaquah City Council, which was left vacant by Stacy Goodman. Joe is an attorney who has served as a prosecutor for Eastside cities as well as a former council member for the city of Issaquah from 2000 to 2007.

  • Tola Marts is running unopposed for re-election to Issaquah City Council, Position 7. Councilmember Marts has served in this seat since 2009 and as council president in 2012, 2018, and 2019. He is also the director of engineering at an aerospace research company.

    On the council, he supported the distribution of funds to help local businesses make it through the COVID-19 pandemic. Marts' priorities if re-elected include attracting good-paying jobs and more housing for the community's workers and working families.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Tola Marts is running unopposed for re-election to Issaquah City Council, Position 7. Councilmember Marts has served in this seat since 2009 and as council president in 2012, 2018, and 2019. He is also the director of engineering at an aerospace research company.

    On the council, he supported the distribution of funds to help local businesses make it through the COVID-19 pandemic. Marts' priorities if re-elected include attracting good-paying jobs and more housing for the community's workers and working families.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Tola Marts is running unopposed for re-election to Issaquah City Council, Position 7. Councilmember Marts has served in this seat since 2009 and as council president in 2012, 2018, and 2019. He is also the director of engineering at an aerospace research company.

    On the council, he supported the distribution of funds to help local businesses make it through the COVID-19 pandemic. Marts' priorities if re-elected include attracting good-paying jobs and more housing for the community's workers and working families.
    Tola Marts is running unopposed for re-election to Issaquah City Council, Position 7. Councilmember Marts has served in this seat since 2009 and as council president in 2012, 2018, and 2019. He is also the director of engineering at an aerospace research company.

    On the council, he supported the distribution of funds to help local businesses make it through the COVID-19 pandemic. Marts' priorities if re-elected include attracting good-paying jobs and more housing for the community's workers and working families.
  • Sydne Mullings is running for re-election to Issaquah School Board, Position 4. Mullings was elected to the school board in 2019 and has worked at Microsoft since 2008. She is also a board member of After-School All-Stars Puget Sound. In her time on the school board Mullings has worked to support the social, emotional, and mental health of students, foster a welcoming environment for all, and engage different voices from the community. If re-elected Mullings will prioritize facilities that serve all students and enhance learning environments using environmentally sustainable strategies.

    Also in this race is Dr. Wendy Ghiora, a retired public school principal who has worked in both public and charter schools. She also authored, "Unleashing the Student's 'I Can'" a personal account of her time as a teacher and administrator. If elected, Ghiora would prioritize supporting students who struggled with online learning during the pandemic and pushing the district to set high goals for student achievement.

    Mullings is the best choice in the race for Issaquah School Board, Position 4.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Sydne Mullings is running for re-election to Issaquah School Board, Position 4. Mullings was elected to the school board in 2019 and has worked at Microsoft since 2008. She is also a board member of After-School All-Stars Puget Sound. In her time on the school board Mullings has worked to support the social, emotional, and mental health of students, foster a welcoming environment for all, and engage different voices from the community. If re-elected Mullings will prioritize facilities that serve all students and enhance learning environments using environmentally sustainable strategies.

    Also in this race is Dr. Wendy Ghiora, a retired public school principal who has worked in both public and charter schools. She also authored, "Unleashing the Student's 'I Can'" a personal account of her time as a teacher and administrator. If elected, Ghiora would prioritize supporting students who struggled with online learning during the pandemic and pushing the district to set high goals for student achievement.

    Mullings is the best choice in the race for Issaquah School Board, Position 4.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Sydne Mullings is running for re-election to Issaquah School Board, Position 4. Mullings was elected to the school board in 2019 and has worked at Microsoft since 2008. She is also a board member of After-School All-Stars Puget Sound. In her time on the school board Mullings has worked to support the social, emotional, and mental health of students, foster a welcoming environment for all, and engage different voices from the community. If re-elected Mullings will prioritize facilities that serve all students and enhance learning environments using environmentally sustainable strategies.

    Also in this race is Dr. Wendy Ghiora, a retired public school principal who has worked in both public and charter schools. She also authored, "Unleashing the Student's 'I Can'" a personal account of her time as a teacher and administrator. If elected, Ghiora would prioritize supporting students who struggled with online learning during the pandemic and pushing the district to set high goals for student achievement.

    Mullings is the best choice in the race for Issaquah School Board, Position 4.

    Sydne Mullings is running for re-election to Issaquah School Board, Position 4. Mullings was elected to the school board in 2019 and has worked at Microsoft since 2008. She is also a board member of After-School All-Stars Puget Sound. In her time on the school board Mullings has worked to support the social, emotional, and mental health of students, foster a welcoming environment for all, and engage different voices from the community. If re-elected Mullings will prioritize facilities that serve all students and enhance learning environments using environmentally sustainable strategies.

    Also in this race is Dr. Wendy Ghiora, a retired public school principal who has worked in both public and charter schools. She also authored, "Unleashing the Student's 'I Can'" a personal account of her time as a teacher and administrator. If elected, Ghiora would prioritize supporting students who struggled with online learning during the pandemic and pushing the district to set high goals for student achievement.

    Mullings is the best choice in the race for Issaquah School Board, Position 4.

  • Endorsed By: Washington Education Association

Public Hospital District

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

  • 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.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    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.

    Public Hospital District

    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.

    Public Hospital District
  • 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.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    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.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    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.

  • 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.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    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.

    Public Hospital District

    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.

    Public Hospital District
  • Endorsed By: 48th Legislative District Democrats