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  • Democrat

    Alex Ramel

  • Rep. Alex Ramel is running for re-election to Position 2 in the 40th Legislative District. Ramel has been a strong progressive leader in the Legislature. The incumbent and environmental organizer previously served on the board of the Whatcom chapter of Washington Conservation Voters and now works as a climate policy advisor for an environmental nonprofit.

    Ramel’s top legislative priorities include fighting climate change, making housing more affordable, preventing gun violence, investing in community-first economic recovery, and making sure all Washingtonians can afford the health care they need. One of his environmental accomplishments this session was helping to pass the Move Ahead Washington transportation package that will invest in accessible and climate-friendly transit infrastructure like electric vehicle charging stations and zero-emissions ferry technology.

    Beyond the transportation package, Ramel prioritized keeping our communities safe by restricting ghost guns, banning carrying guns in places like school board meetings, and creating an alert system for missing Indigenous people. He also sponsored important policies that we hope will move forward in the years to come, including a wealth tax on extraordinarily high earners and expanding housing options near transit.

    Ramel faces a challenge from Trevor Smith, a moderate Democrat and the political director of a labor union whose workers install and manage natural gas infrastructure. Unfortunately, Smith's challenge represents a push by conservative corporations and fossil fuel interests to stop Ramel from fighting carbon pollution by promoting alternatives to natural gas like electrification. Corporate and conservative PACs and people have spent more than $140,000 backing Smith's campaign to oust Ramel.

    Ramel has been a champion for fighting climate change and protecting our clean air and water. We hope the Legislature follows his lead and continues to fund training for workers to pivot to cleaner sources of fuel. But with the recent attempts of a conservative Supreme Court hobbling the EPA's ability to regulate pollution, this is no time to stop climate action.

    Ramel has been an outstanding advocate for progressive causes and is the clear choice to continue serving the 40th Legislative District.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Alex Ramel

    Rep. Alex Ramel is running for re-election to Position 2 in the 40th Legislative District. Ramel has been a strong progressive leader in the Legislature.
    Rep. Alex Ramel is running for re-election to Position 2 in the 40th Legislative District. Ramel has been a strong progressive leader in the Legislature. The incumbent and environmental organizer previously served on the board of the Whatcom chapter of Washington Conservation Voters and now works as a climate policy advisor for an environmental nonprofit.

    Ramel’s top legislative priorities include fighting climate change, making housing more affordable, preventing gun violence, investing in community-first economic recovery, and making sure all Washingtonians can afford the health care they need. One of his environmental accomplishments this session was helping to pass the Move Ahead Washington transportation package that will invest in accessible and climate-friendly transit infrastructure like electric vehicle charging stations and zero-emissions ferry technology.

    Beyond the transportation package, Ramel prioritized keeping our communities safe by restricting ghost guns, banning carrying guns in places like school board meetings, and creating an alert system for missing Indigenous people. He also sponsored important policies that we hope will move forward in the years to come, including a wealth tax on extraordinarily high earners and expanding housing options near transit.

    Ramel faces a challenge from Trevor Smith, a moderate Democrat and the political director of a labor union whose workers install and manage natural gas infrastructure. Unfortunately, Smith's challenge represents a push by conservative corporations and fossil fuel interests to stop Ramel from fighting carbon pollution by promoting alternatives to natural gas like electrification. Corporate and conservative PACs and people have spent more than $140,000 backing Smith's campaign to oust Ramel.

    Ramel has been a champion for fighting climate change and protecting our clean air and water. We hope the Legislature follows his lead and continues to fund training for workers to pivot to cleaner sources of fuel. But with the recent attempts of a conservative Supreme Court hobbling the EPA's ability to regulate pollution, this is no time to stop climate action.

    Ramel has been an outstanding advocate for progressive causes and is the clear choice to continue serving the 40th Legislative District.

    Alex Ramel

    Rep. Alex Ramel is running for re-election to Position 2 in the 40th Legislative District. Ramel has been a strong progressive leader in the Legislature.
  • VOTE MAINTAINED

    Vote Maintained for a sustainable climate future

  • This spring, Democrats in Olympia passed Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5974, which included a small increase in aircraft fuel taxes. This change would raise an estimated $14 million in public revenue and help our state achieve its climate goals.

    This bill was sponsored by some of Washington’s most progressive lawmakers and passed with a clear majority in the session. The legislation will help our state create a sustainable future where generations can thrive with clean air and water.

    Vote “Maintained” on State Advisory Vote 39.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    This spring, Democrats in Olympia passed Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5974, which included a small increase in aircraft fuel taxes. This change would raise an estimated $14 million in public revenue and help our state achieve its climate goals.

    This bill was sponsored by some of Washington’s most progressive lawmakers and passed with a clear majority in the session. The legislation will help our state create a sustainable future where generations can thrive with clean air and water.

    Vote “Maintained” on State Advisory Vote 39.

    This spring, Democrats in Olympia passed Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5974, which included a small increase in aircraft fuel taxes. This change would raise an estimated $14 million in public revenue and help our state achieve its climate goals.

    This bill was sponsored by some of Washington’s most progressive lawmakers and passed with a clear majority in the session. The legislation will help our state create a sustainable future where generations can thrive with clean air and water.

    Vote “Maintained” on State Advisory Vote 39.

    Advisory Vote 39

    This spring, Democrats in Olympia passed Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5974, which included a small increase in aircraft fuel taxes. This change would raise an estimated $14 million in public revenue and help our state achieve its climate goals.

    This bill was sponsored by some of Washington’s most progressive lawmakers and passed with a clear majority in the session. The legislation will help our state create a sustainable future where generations can thrive with clean air and water.

    Vote “Maintained” on State Advisory Vote 39.

  • Endorsed By The Stranger
  • VOTE MAINTAINED

    Vote Maintained for rideshare worker protections

  • Last session, lawmakers passed Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2076 which increases worker protections and rights for rideshare drivers.

    The legislation, which had bipartisan support, requires that rideshare companies pay their drivers a minimum amount per trip, offer paid sick leave, and give compensation benefits. It is a positive step in the direction of protecting workers’ rights in the growing gig economy so that we all can afford the basics, be treated fairly in our place of work, and have the chance to succeed.

    Vote “Maintained” on State Advisory Vote 40.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Last session, lawmakers passed Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2076 which increases worker protections and rights for rideshare drivers.

    The legislation, which had bipartisan support, requires that rideshare companies pay their drivers a minimum amount per trip, offer paid sick leave, and give compensation benefits. It is a positive step in the direction of protecting workers’ rights in the growing gig economy so that we all can afford the basics, be treated fairly in our place of work, and have the chance to succeed.

    Vote “Maintained” on State Advisory Vote 40.
    Last session, lawmakers passed Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2076 which increases worker protections and rights for rideshare drivers.

    The legislation, which had bipartisan support, requires that rideshare companies pay their drivers a minimum amount per trip, offer paid sick leave, and give compensation benefits. It is a positive step in the direction of protecting workers’ rights in the growing gig economy so that we all can afford the basics, be treated fairly in our place of work, and have the chance to succeed.

    Vote “Maintained” on State Advisory Vote 40.

    Advisory Vote 40

    Last session, lawmakers passed Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2076 which increases worker protections and rights for rideshare drivers.

    The legislation, which had bipartisan support, requires that rideshare companies pay their drivers a minimum amount per trip, offer paid sick leave, and give compensation benefits. It is a positive step in the direction of protecting workers’ rights in the growing gig economy so that we all can afford the basics, be treated fairly in our place of work, and have the chance to succeed.

    Vote “Maintained” on State Advisory Vote 40.
  • Endorsed By The Stranger

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

  • VOTE APPROVED

    Vote Yes for child care and early learning for Whatcom County

  • Building a resilient and sustainable community means making sure that all children can access the resources and services they need to thrive. Whatcom County Proposition 5, adopted by the county council earlier this year, represents a major investment in our children’s wellbeing and future.

    The measure proposes to create a Healthy Children's Fund to support and expand early learning programs and child care countywide, and to provide additional services for kids who are vulnerable and at-risk, covered by a small property tax increase. These services are proposed in direct response to the growing needs in the county to increase affordable child care options, alleviate homelessness and the cycle of poverty, and ensure all our children are healthy and safe. The owner of a median $595,000 home in Whatcom county would pay approximately $9 per month to support these important services.

    By giving our children the tools and support they need now, we reduce the need for other social supports later in life while building a stronger community for all. Vote “Yes” for Proposition 5 in Whatcom County.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Building a resilient and sustainable community means making sure that all children can access the resources and services they need to thrive. Whatcom County Proposition 5, adopted by the county council earlier this year, represents a major investment in our children’s wellbeing and future.

    The measure proposes to create a Healthy Children's Fund to support and expand early learning programs and child care countywide, and to provide additional services for kids who are vulnerable and at-risk, covered by a small property tax increase. These services are proposed in direct response to the growing needs in the county to increase affordable child care options, alleviate homelessness and the cycle of poverty, and ensure all our children are healthy and safe. The owner of a median $595,000 home in Whatcom county would pay approximately $9 per month to support these important services.

    By giving our children the tools and support they need now, we reduce the need for other social supports later in life while building a stronger community for all. Vote “Yes” for Proposition 5 in Whatcom County.
    Building a resilient and sustainable community means making sure that all children can access the resources and services they need to thrive. Whatcom County Proposition 5, adopted by the county council earlier this year, represents a major investment in our children’s wellbeing and future.

    The measure proposes to create a Healthy Children's Fund to support and expand early learning programs and child care countywide, and to provide additional services for kids who are vulnerable and at-risk, covered by a small property tax increase. These services are proposed in direct response to the growing needs in the county to increase affordable child care options, alleviate homelessness and the cycle of poverty, and ensure all our children are healthy and safe. The owner of a median $595,000 home in Whatcom county would pay approximately $9 per month to support these important services.

    By giving our children the tools and support they need now, we reduce the need for other social supports later in life while building a stronger community for all. Vote “Yes” for Proposition 5 in Whatcom County.

    Whatcom County Childcare and early learning Levy Lift

    Building a resilient and sustainable community means making sure that all children can access the resources and services they need to thrive. Whatcom County Proposition 5, adopted by the county council earlier this year, represents a major investment in our children’s wellbeing and future.
  • VOTE APPROVED

    Vote Approved to maintain local fire and emergency medical services

  • When a loved one is experiencing a health crisis, the last thing to worry about should be whether or not our firefighters and ambulance services have the funding they need to help. Whatcom County Proposition 6 proposes to renew funding for the county’s emergency services network to ensure that crisis response is there when we need it most.

    In Whatcom, emergency responses have grown more than 24% since the funding was first introduced. Emergency medical help that we can all access is essential to making our community safer.

    Vote “Yes” to approve Proposition 6 for a critical investment in public safety in the county.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    When a loved one is experiencing a health crisis, the last thing to worry about should be whether or not our firefighters and ambulance services have the funding they need to help. Whatcom County Proposition 6 proposes to renew funding for the county’s emergency services network to ensure that crisis response is there when we need it most.

    In Whatcom, emergency responses have grown more than 24% since the funding was first introduced. Emergency medical help that we can all access is essential to making our community safer.

    Vote “Yes” to approve Proposition 6 for a critical investment in public safety in the county.
    When a loved one is experiencing a health crisis, the last thing to worry about should be whether or not our firefighters and ambulance services have the funding they need to help. Whatcom County Proposition 6 proposes to renew funding for the county’s emergency services network to ensure that crisis response is there when we need it most.

    In Whatcom, emergency responses have grown more than 24% since the funding was first introduced. Emergency medical help that we can all access is essential to making our community safer.

    Vote “Yes” to approve Proposition 6 for a critical investment in public safety in the county.

    Whatcom County EMS Levy Lift Proposition 6

    When a loved one is experiencing a health crisis, the last thing to worry about should be whether or not our firefighters and ambulance services have the funding they need to help.

  • Sen. Patty Murray has been a consistent and strong progressive voice in the U.S. Senate. She's seeking re-election to continue fighting for our basic rights and a better quality of life in Washington and beyond.

    Murray was first elected in 1992 and has been a champion for veterans, working families, women, and economic opportunities for all. Before her tenure in the Senate, Murray worked as a preschool teacher, on the Shoreline School Board, and in the Washington state Senate.

    During her time in Congress, Sen. Murray has worked hard to keep our communities safe from gun violence, protect abortion access at the federal level so that everyone has reproductive freedom, and expand access to affordable childcare. This year, she voted in support of the Women’s Health Protection Act, the Freedom to Vote Act, and a slate of other progressive bills that invest in working communities so that our country is a place where everyone can thrive. Murray has earned an impressive and diverse coalition of endorsements from local and national organizations, elected leaders, and unions.

    Sen. Murray faces Tiffany Smiley, a triage nurse running on a MAGA Republican platform. Smiley has never held public office but she previously worked on Capitol Hill. Her Trump-inspired agenda aims to divide us while she seeks to cut funding from our most essential services and repurpose it for a needless border wall and more militarized police forces. Working Washingtonians need real solutions so that we can access the basics like gas, groceries, rent, and prescription medicine – not MAGA rhetoric and tax breaks for the wealthy.

    Sen. Patty Murray is a national leader on many of the most important issues facing our country. She has earned your vote for re-election.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Patty Murray

    Sen. Patty Murray has been a consistent and strong progressive voice in the U.S. Senate. She's seeking re-election to continue fighting for our basic rights and a better quality of life in Washington and beyond.

    Sen. Patty Murray has been a consistent and strong progressive voice in the U.S. Senate. She's seeking re-election to continue fighting for our basic rights and a better quality of life in Washington and beyond.

    Murray was first elected in 1992 and has been a champion for veterans, working families, women, and economic opportunities for all. Before her tenure in the Senate, Murray worked as a preschool teacher, on the Shoreline School Board, and in the Washington state Senate.

    During her time in Congress, Sen. Murray has worked hard to keep our communities safe from gun violence, protect abortion access at the federal level so that everyone has reproductive freedom, and expand access to affordable childcare. This year, she voted in support of the Women’s Health Protection Act, the Freedom to Vote Act, and a slate of other progressive bills that invest in working communities so that our country is a place where everyone can thrive. Murray has earned an impressive and diverse coalition of endorsements from local and national organizations, elected leaders, and unions.

    Sen. Murray faces Tiffany Smiley, a triage nurse running on a MAGA Republican platform. Smiley has never held public office but she previously worked on Capitol Hill. Her Trump-inspired agenda aims to divide us while she seeks to cut funding from our most essential services and repurpose it for a needless border wall and more militarized police forces. Working Washingtonians need real solutions so that we can access the basics like gas, groceries, rent, and prescription medicine – not MAGA rhetoric and tax breaks for the wealthy.

    Sen. Patty Murray is a national leader on many of the most important issues facing our country. She has earned your vote for re-election.

    Patty Murray

    Sen. Patty Murray has been a consistent and strong progressive voice in the U.S. Senate. She's seeking re-election to continue fighting for our basic rights and a better quality of life in Washington and beyond.

  • Rep. Rick Larsen is a moderate Democrat who is seeking his eleventh term representing Washington's 2nd Congressional District. Before serving in Congress, he served on the Snohomish County Council and worked on economic development for the City of Everett.

    Larsen has been a reliable vote on House Democrats' priorities. Since his last election, he voted for both the bipartisan infrastructure bill and Build Back Better, President Biden's more ambitious effort to fund clean energy, child tax credits, and other progressive priorities. In past years, Larsen supported the Lower Drug Costs Now Act to give Medicare the power to negotiate directly with the drug companies and pass on the lower drug prices to all Americans. He also voted for the Voting Rights Advancement Act, supported the coronavirus pandemic relief packages, and sought to reform student loans.

    Republican Dan Matthews, a veteran and retired commercial airline pilot, is challenging incumbent Larsen in this race. Matthews lists dozens of "areas of concern" on his website with an invitation to "let the dialogue begin" but does not list any actual policy positions. However, some of the topics he lists are consistent with the MAGA Republican agenda we see across the country this year including dangerous rhetoric about voter fraud and border policies that echo Trump's 2016 talking points.

    Larsen is the clear choice for Congress from Washington's 2nd Congressional District.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Rick Larsen

    Rep. Rick Larsen is a moderate Democrat who is seeking his eleventh term representing Washington's 2nd Congressional District. Before serving in Congress, he served on the Snohomish County Council and worked on economic development for the City of Everett.
    Rep. Rick Larsen is a moderate Democrat who is seeking his eleventh term representing Washington's 2nd Congressional District. Before serving in Congress, he served on the Snohomish County Council and worked on economic development for the City of Everett.

    Larsen has been a reliable vote on House Democrats' priorities. Since his last election, he voted for both the bipartisan infrastructure bill and Build Back Better, President Biden's more ambitious effort to fund clean energy, child tax credits, and other progressive priorities. In past years, Larsen supported the Lower Drug Costs Now Act to give Medicare the power to negotiate directly with the drug companies and pass on the lower drug prices to all Americans. He also voted for the Voting Rights Advancement Act, supported the coronavirus pandemic relief packages, and sought to reform student loans.

    Republican Dan Matthews, a veteran and retired commercial airline pilot, is challenging incumbent Larsen in this race. Matthews lists dozens of "areas of concern" on his website with an invitation to "let the dialogue begin" but does not list any actual policy positions. However, some of the topics he lists are consistent with the MAGA Republican agenda we see across the country this year including dangerous rhetoric about voter fraud and border policies that echo Trump's 2016 talking points.

    Larsen is the clear choice for Congress from Washington's 2nd Congressional District.

    Rick Larsen

    Rep. Rick Larsen is a moderate Democrat who is seeking his eleventh term representing Washington's 2nd Congressional District. Before serving in Congress, he served on the Snohomish County Council and worked on economic development for the City of Everett.
  • Democrat Steve Hobbs is running to retain his position as secretary of state for the remainder of the two-year term. He is a first-generation Japanese American and a 30-year member of the military, serving tours in Kosovo and Iraq before becoming a Lieutenant Colonel in the Washington Army National Guard.

    Hobbs was appointed as secretary of state in November of last year after Kim Wyman resigned to join the Biden Administration. Prior to his appointment, he served four terms in the Washington state Senate representing the 44th Legislative District. His voting record was consistently progressive on social issues and leaned more conservative on taxes and workers' rights.

    During his first 8 months in office, Hobbs has been laser-focused on protecting our electoral systems from attacks. He has used his background in national security to partner closely with the Department of Homeland Security to stop digital threats to our voting systems, both foreign and domestic. Hobbs also understands the challenge that misinformation poses to the integrity of our elections. He has been working to set up a division within his office specifically to combat misinformation and wants to work closely with social media companies to ensure they take down dangerous conspiracy theories.

    As the pandemic recedes, Hobbs is committed to restarting his office's voter outreach program. He is very enthusiastic about a trusted messenger program he's launching to utilize community leaders to talk about the importance of voting. He also wants to improve outreach to reduce the racial disparities in rejected ballots because of signature mismatches.

    The only issue of concern with Hobbs is his personal opposition to ranked choice voting. During our interview, he shared that he's concerned about implementing a complicated new voting system at a moment of low trust in our elections. In addition, he is concerned that voters like his mother, who speaks English as a second language, will have a difficult time learning and participating in the new system. Experts have reiterated that ranked choice voting is simple for all voters and has been used successfully on ballots in multiple languages.

    Hobbs made a compelling case that the secretary of state must adapt to the new and complex challenges of running modern elections. Hobbs is a good choice if you're looking for someone with broad Democratic endorsements and with national security experience to safeguard and rebuild trust in our electoral system.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Steve Hobbs

    Democrat Steve Hobbs is running to retain his position as secretary of state for the remainder of the two-year term.

    Democrat Steve Hobbs is running to retain his position as secretary of state for the remainder of the two-year term. He is a first-generation Japanese American and a 30-year member of the military, serving tours in Kosovo and Iraq before becoming a Lieutenant Colonel in the Washington Army National Guard.

    Hobbs was appointed as secretary of state in November of last year after Kim Wyman resigned to join the Biden Administration. Prior to his appointment, he served four terms in the Washington state Senate representing the 44th Legislative District. His voting record was consistently progressive on social issues and leaned more conservative on taxes and workers' rights.

    During his first 8 months in office, Hobbs has been laser-focused on protecting our electoral systems from attacks. He has used his background in national security to partner closely with the Department of Homeland Security to stop digital threats to our voting systems, both foreign and domestic. Hobbs also understands the challenge that misinformation poses to the integrity of our elections. He has been working to set up a division within his office specifically to combat misinformation and wants to work closely with social media companies to ensure they take down dangerous conspiracy theories.

    As the pandemic recedes, Hobbs is committed to restarting his office's voter outreach program. He is very enthusiastic about a trusted messenger program he's launching to utilize community leaders to talk about the importance of voting. He also wants to improve outreach to reduce the racial disparities in rejected ballots because of signature mismatches.

    The only issue of concern with Hobbs is his personal opposition to ranked choice voting. During our interview, he shared that he's concerned about implementing a complicated new voting system at a moment of low trust in our elections. In addition, he is concerned that voters like his mother, who speaks English as a second language, will have a difficult time learning and participating in the new system. Experts have reiterated that ranked choice voting is simple for all voters and has been used successfully on ballots in multiple languages.

    Hobbs made a compelling case that the secretary of state must adapt to the new and complex challenges of running modern elections. Hobbs is a good choice if you're looking for someone with broad Democratic endorsements and with national security experience to safeguard and rebuild trust in our electoral system.

    Steve Hobbs

    Democrat Steve Hobbs is running to retain his position as secretary of state for the remainder of the two-year term.

  • Pierce County Auditor Julie Anderson is running as an independent to bring a non-partisan voice to the secretary of state's office. Anderson served on the Tacoma City Council before running for county auditor in 2009 and winning re-election three times. As Pierce County auditor, which is a nonpartisan position, she has administered dozens of elections while also overseeing licensing and public record-keeping.

    Anderson is running because she believes political parties shouldn't be involved in running elections they are simultaneously trying to win. Her campaign priorities include supporting more local races becoming non-partisan, increasing access to voting and election information, and improving election security. She wants to translate the voters' pamphlet into 10 languages, going beyond what is mandated by the Voting Rights Act. She also wants to conduct risk-limiting audits in all 39 Washington counties and "pre-bunk" rumors to increase confidence in our state's election systems.

    During our interview, Anderson expressed support for ranked choice voting because she believes it will allow candidates to break through our two-party political system. This is one of the biggest points of difference between Anderson and Hobbs.

    Anderson offers voters an experienced option if they are looking for a nonpartisan administrator to manage our state's elections and support ranked choice voting.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Julie Anderson

    Pierce County Auditor Julie Anderson is running as an independent to bring a non-partisan voice to the secretary of state's office. Anderson served on the Tacoma City Council before running for county auditor in 2009 and winning re-election three times.

    Pierce County Auditor Julie Anderson is running as an independent to bring a non-partisan voice to the secretary of state's office. Anderson served on the Tacoma City Council before running for county auditor in 2009 and winning re-election three times. As Pierce County auditor, which is a nonpartisan position, she has administered dozens of elections while also overseeing licensing and public record-keeping.

    Anderson is running because she believes political parties shouldn't be involved in running elections they are simultaneously trying to win. Her campaign priorities include supporting more local races becoming non-partisan, increasing access to voting and election information, and improving election security. She wants to translate the voters' pamphlet into 10 languages, going beyond what is mandated by the Voting Rights Act. She also wants to conduct risk-limiting audits in all 39 Washington counties and "pre-bunk" rumors to increase confidence in our state's election systems.

    During our interview, Anderson expressed support for ranked choice voting because she believes it will allow candidates to break through our two-party political system. This is one of the biggest points of difference between Anderson and Hobbs.

    Anderson offers voters an experienced option if they are looking for a nonpartisan administrator to manage our state's elections and support ranked choice voting.

    Julie Anderson

    Pierce County Auditor Julie Anderson is running as an independent to bring a non-partisan voice to the secretary of state's office. Anderson served on the Tacoma City Council before running for county auditor in 2009 and winning re-election three times.

  • Endorsed By: Teamsters Joint Council 28, Teamsters 117, UFCW 3000, Washington Alliance for Gun Responsibility
  • Evergreen Future
  • Rep. Debra Lekanoff is running for re-election to Legislative District 40, Position 1. Lekanoff is currently the only Native American woman in the Washington Legislature. She formerly worked for the Swinomish Tribe as the governmental affairs director and now serves as vice chair of the House State Government & Tribal Relations Committee.

    Lekanoff is running to keep fighting to protect our ecosystems for future generations while advocating for investments in public infrastructure and economic recovery. This session, she was the prime sponsor of historic legislation that created the country’s first alert system for missing Indigenous women. Lekanoff also supported the historic Move Ahead Washington transportation bill that will make public transit in Washington more accessible and environmentally friendly.

    Republican Shannon Perkes faces Lekanoff on the November ballot after receiving sufficient votes as a write-in candidate during the primary. Perkes has worked in logging, agriculture, and construction, and is now running on a very conservative platform that opposes Gov. Inslee’s progressive efforts. If elected, Perkes wants to reduce access to health care, increase militarized policing in our neighborhoods, reduce workplace protections and other regulations that keep businesses accountable, and sow doubts about election security.

    Lekanoff is a strong progressive who will prioritize the environment, tribal representation, and community economic security. Lekanoff deserves your vote for re-election so she can continue building a future where all Washingtonians can prosper.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Debra Lekanoff

    Rep. Debra Lekanoff is running for re-election to Legislative District 40, Position 1. Lekanoff is currently the only Native American woman in the Washington Legislature.
    Rep. Debra Lekanoff is running for re-election to Legislative District 40, Position 1. Lekanoff is currently the only Native American woman in the Washington Legislature. She formerly worked for the Swinomish Tribe as the governmental affairs director and now serves as vice chair of the House State Government & Tribal Relations Committee.

    Lekanoff is running to keep fighting to protect our ecosystems for future generations while advocating for investments in public infrastructure and economic recovery. This session, she was the prime sponsor of historic legislation that created the country’s first alert system for missing Indigenous women. Lekanoff also supported the historic Move Ahead Washington transportation bill that will make public transit in Washington more accessible and environmentally friendly.

    Republican Shannon Perkes faces Lekanoff on the November ballot after receiving sufficient votes as a write-in candidate during the primary. Perkes has worked in logging, agriculture, and construction, and is now running on a very conservative platform that opposes Gov. Inslee’s progressive efforts. If elected, Perkes wants to reduce access to health care, increase militarized policing in our neighborhoods, reduce workplace protections and other regulations that keep businesses accountable, and sow doubts about election security.

    Lekanoff is a strong progressive who will prioritize the environment, tribal representation, and community economic security. Lekanoff deserves your vote for re-election so she can continue building a future where all Washingtonians can prosper.

    Debra Lekanoff

    Rep. Debra Lekanoff is running for re-election to Legislative District 40, Position 1. Lekanoff is currently the only Native American woman in the Washington Legislature.
  • Rep. Alex Ramel is running for re-election to Position 2 in the 40th Legislative District. Ramel has been a strong progressive leader in the Legislature. The incumbent and environmental organizer previously served on the board of the Whatcom chapter of Washington Conservation Voters and now works as a climate policy advisor for an environmental nonprofit.

    Ramel’s top legislative priorities include fighting climate change, making housing more affordable, preventing gun violence, investing in community-first economic recovery, and making sure all Washingtonians can afford the health care they need. One of his environmental accomplishments this session was helping to pass the Move Ahead Washington transportation package that will invest in accessible and climate-friendly transit infrastructure like electric vehicle charging stations and zero-emissions ferry technology.

    Beyond the transportation package, Ramel prioritized keeping our communities safe by restricting ghost guns, banning carrying guns in places like school board meetings, and creating an alert system for missing Indigenous people. He also sponsored important policies that we hope will move forward in the years to come, including a wealth tax on extraordinarily high earners and expanding housing options near transit.

    Ramel faces a challenge from Trevor Smith, a moderate Democrat and the political director of a labor union whose workers install and manage natural gas infrastructure. Unfortunately, Smith's challenge represents a push by conservative corporations and fossil fuel interests to stop Ramel from fighting carbon pollution by promoting alternatives to natural gas like electrification. Corporate and conservative PACs and people have spent more than $140,000 backing Smith's campaign to oust Ramel.

    Ramel has been a champion for fighting climate change and protecting our clean air and water. We hope the Legislature follows his lead and continues to fund training for workers to pivot to cleaner sources of fuel. But with the recent attempts of a conservative Supreme Court hobbling the EPA's ability to regulate pollution, this is no time to stop climate action.

    Ramel has been an outstanding advocate for progressive causes and is the clear choice to continue serving the 40th Legislative District.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Alex Ramel

    Rep. Alex Ramel is running for re-election to Position 2 in the 40th Legislative District. Ramel has been a strong progressive leader in the Legislature.
    Rep. Alex Ramel is running for re-election to Position 2 in the 40th Legislative District. Ramel has been a strong progressive leader in the Legislature. The incumbent and environmental organizer previously served on the board of the Whatcom chapter of Washington Conservation Voters and now works as a climate policy advisor for an environmental nonprofit.

    Ramel’s top legislative priorities include fighting climate change, making housing more affordable, preventing gun violence, investing in community-first economic recovery, and making sure all Washingtonians can afford the health care they need. One of his environmental accomplishments this session was helping to pass the Move Ahead Washington transportation package that will invest in accessible and climate-friendly transit infrastructure like electric vehicle charging stations and zero-emissions ferry technology.

    Beyond the transportation package, Ramel prioritized keeping our communities safe by restricting ghost guns, banning carrying guns in places like school board meetings, and creating an alert system for missing Indigenous people. He also sponsored important policies that we hope will move forward in the years to come, including a wealth tax on extraordinarily high earners and expanding housing options near transit.

    Ramel faces a challenge from Trevor Smith, a moderate Democrat and the political director of a labor union whose workers install and manage natural gas infrastructure. Unfortunately, Smith's challenge represents a push by conservative corporations and fossil fuel interests to stop Ramel from fighting carbon pollution by promoting alternatives to natural gas like electrification. Corporate and conservative PACs and people have spent more than $140,000 backing Smith's campaign to oust Ramel.

    Ramel has been a champion for fighting climate change and protecting our clean air and water. We hope the Legislature follows his lead and continues to fund training for workers to pivot to cleaner sources of fuel. But with the recent attempts of a conservative Supreme Court hobbling the EPA's ability to regulate pollution, this is no time to stop climate action.

    Ramel has been an outstanding advocate for progressive causes and is the clear choice to continue serving the 40th Legislative District.

    Alex Ramel

    Rep. Alex Ramel is running for re-election to Position 2 in the 40th Legislative District. Ramel has been a strong progressive leader in the Legislature.

County Races

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

  • Amy Vira is running unopposed for San Juan County prosecuting attorney. Since 2011, Vira has served as a deputy prosecutor with the county’s prosecuting office and she also works as the county’s deputy coroner. She volunteers as a board member for The Whale Museum and as the board secretary for the San Juan County Textile Guild. Vira is running on a platform to bring fair and equal justice to the county while leading with integrity and respect.

    She deserves your vote for prosecuting attorney to bring her experience and vision to San Juan County.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Amy Vira

    Amy Vira is running unopposed for San Juan County prosecuting attorney. Since 2011, Vira has served as a deputy prosecutor with the county’s prosecuting office and she also works as the county’s deputy coroner.
    Amy Vira is running unopposed for San Juan County prosecuting attorney. Since 2011, Vira has served as a deputy prosecutor with the county’s prosecuting office and she also works as the county’s deputy coroner. She volunteers as a board member for The Whale Museum and as the board secretary for the San Juan County Textile Guild. Vira is running on a platform to bring fair and equal justice to the county while leading with integrity and respect.

    She deserves your vote for prosecuting attorney to bring her experience and vision to San Juan County.

    Amy Vira

    Amy Vira is running unopposed for San Juan County prosecuting attorney. Since 2011, Vira has served as a deputy prosecutor with the county’s prosecuting office and she also works as the county’s deputy coroner.
  • Danny Hagen is running for the Skagit County assessor’s seat left vacant by Dave Thomas’ retirement. Hagen currently works for Thomas in the county assessor’s office and is also involved with the International Association of Assessing Officers. He is working towards earning a Mass Appraisal Specialist designation, a qualification only one other Washingtonian has earned.

    Hagen believes that Skagit County is strongest when we have a fair and equitable tax code that is stewarded by trusted, elected leaders. He wants to make sure that the assessor’s office operates transparently so that the community has confidence in the administration of public revenue that benefits us all. He is running as an Independent in this race because he believes the assessor’s office should be nonpartisan.

    Republican Karie Storle, an Army veteran, school district bus driver, and employee of the assessor’s office, is the other candidate in this race. Storle lacks a campaign website and a well-defined platform. Her goals for office include maintaining the status quo and opposing legislation that would enable community investments to improve life in Skagit County.

    Danny Hagen is the best choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Danny Hagen

    Danny Hagen is running for the Skagit County assessor’s seat left vacant by Dave Thomas’ retirement. Hagen currently works for Thomas in the county assessor’s office and is also involved with the International Association of Assessing Officers.
    Danny Hagen is running for the Skagit County assessor’s seat left vacant by Dave Thomas’ retirement. Hagen currently works for Thomas in the county assessor’s office and is also involved with the International Association of Assessing Officers. He is working towards earning a Mass Appraisal Specialist designation, a qualification only one other Washingtonian has earned.

    Hagen believes that Skagit County is strongest when we have a fair and equitable tax code that is stewarded by trusted, elected leaders. He wants to make sure that the assessor’s office operates transparently so that the community has confidence in the administration of public revenue that benefits us all. He is running as an Independent in this race because he believes the assessor’s office should be nonpartisan.

    Republican Karie Storle, an Army veteran, school district bus driver, and employee of the assessor’s office, is the other candidate in this race. Storle lacks a campaign website and a well-defined platform. Her goals for office include maintaining the status quo and opposing legislation that would enable community investments to improve life in Skagit County.

    Danny Hagen is the best choice in this race.

    Danny Hagen

    Danny Hagen is running for the Skagit County assessor’s seat left vacant by Dave Thomas’ retirement. Hagen currently works for Thomas in the county assessor’s office and is also involved with the International Association of Assessing Officers.
  • Democrat Sandy Perkins is running for re-election for Skagit County auditor, a position she has held for six years. Before that, Perkins spent two decades as a certified fraud examiner. She also formerly chaired the Skagit Elder Alliance and offers community education about fraud protection.

    Perkins is running to strengthen public trust in local election proceedings and to build on her successes in making the office run more efficiently. She will leverage her knowledge of the office, her 15 years of cyber security experience, and her community leadership to make our elections safer while discrediting misinformation about election fraud coming from MAGA Republicans like her opponent. She is by far the more qualified candidate in this race and her candidacy has support from local elected progressives.

    Eric Hull is a former Boeing engineer and scientist for Hitachi who is running on a vague conservative platform. Hull has never held public office and says he learned about the county auditor’s responsibilities during this campaign.

    Sandy Perkins has done an impressive job in the county auditor’s office and she deserves your vote for another term serving Skagit County.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Sandy Perkins

    Democrat Sandy Perkins is running for re-election for Skagit County auditor, a position she has held for six years. Before that, Perkins spent two decades as a certified fraud examiner. She also formerly chaired the Skagit Elder Alliance and offers community education about fraud protection.
    Democrat Sandy Perkins is running for re-election for Skagit County auditor, a position she has held for six years. Before that, Perkins spent two decades as a certified fraud examiner. She also formerly chaired the Skagit Elder Alliance and offers community education about fraud protection.

    Perkins is running to strengthen public trust in local election proceedings and to build on her successes in making the office run more efficiently. She will leverage her knowledge of the office, her 15 years of cyber security experience, and her community leadership to make our elections safer while discrediting misinformation about election fraud coming from MAGA Republicans like her opponent. She is by far the more qualified candidate in this race and her candidacy has support from local elected progressives.

    Eric Hull is a former Boeing engineer and scientist for Hitachi who is running on a vague conservative platform. Hull has never held public office and says he learned about the county auditor’s responsibilities during this campaign.

    Sandy Perkins has done an impressive job in the county auditor’s office and she deserves your vote for another term serving Skagit County.

    Sandy Perkins

    Democrat Sandy Perkins is running for re-election for Skagit County auditor, a position she has held for six years. Before that, Perkins spent two decades as a certified fraud examiner. She also formerly chaired the Skagit Elder Alliance and offers community education about fraud protection.
  • Mount Vernon City Council member and incumbent county clerk Melissa Beaton is running unopposed to continue serving in the Skagit County clerk’s office. Beaton has a long track record of public service in Skagit County, starting with an administrative position with the Skagit County Superior Court and including her work as a city council member since 2018. Beaton also became the Skagit Rotary Club’s first woman president in 2018 and has served in a multitude of other volunteer community leadership positions as well.

    If re-elected to the clerk’s office, Beaton wants to continue bringing quality financial and administrative support to the Superior Court. With her strong community ties and her prior experience as clerk and in county government, Beaton believes she is perfectly positioned to work collaboratively and bring trusted leadership to the role.

    Melissa Beaton deserves your vote for Skagit County clerk.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Melissa Beaton

    Mount Vernon City Council member and incumbent county clerk Melissa Beaton is running unopposed to continue serving in the Skagit County clerk’s office.
    Mount Vernon City Council member and incumbent county clerk Melissa Beaton is running unopposed to continue serving in the Skagit County clerk’s office. Beaton has a long track record of public service in Skagit County, starting with an administrative position with the Skagit County Superior Court and including her work as a city council member since 2018. Beaton also became the Skagit Rotary Club’s first woman president in 2018 and has served in a multitude of other volunteer community leadership positions as well.

    If re-elected to the clerk’s office, Beaton wants to continue bringing quality financial and administrative support to the Superior Court. With her strong community ties and her prior experience as clerk and in county government, Beaton believes she is perfectly positioned to work collaboratively and bring trusted leadership to the role.

    Melissa Beaton deserves your vote for Skagit County clerk.

    Melissa Beaton

    Mount Vernon City Council member and incumbent county clerk Melissa Beaton is running unopposed to continue serving in the Skagit County clerk’s office.
  • Democrat Don McDermott is running for re-election for another term as Skagit County sheriff. McDermott has served the county for the last four years and he worked as the undersheriff for the county before that. He currently serves as the chair of the Skagit County Chiefs and Sheriff Executive Board.

    In this race, McDermott is running to make Skagit County safer through de-escalation, accountability, prevention, and partnerships between the police and the community. Under his leadership, the county sheriff’s office implemented a policing model that embeds mental health professionals with law enforcement to provide crisis support that can address a wider set of needs. McDermott’s re-election has earned the support of a number of local county leaders as well as the county Democrats.

    Kevin Ewing is challenging McDermott without a party affiliation but his platform indicates that he is a conservative. Ewing lists a number of jobs under his career experience including rancher, contractor, and businessman. Now, he is running for public office to be a “constitutional sheriff” and wants to focus office dollars and time on attacking sanctuary cities and our neighbors without documentation.

    McDermott is the clear choice in this race and deserves your vote for another term as sheriff of Skagit County.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Don McDermott

    Democrat Don McDermott is running for re-election for another term as Skagit County sheriff. McDermott has served the county for the last four years and he worked as the undersheriff for the county before that.
    Democrat Don McDermott is running for re-election for another term as Skagit County sheriff. McDermott has served the county for the last four years and he worked as the undersheriff for the county before that. He currently serves as the chair of the Skagit County Chiefs and Sheriff Executive Board.

    In this race, McDermott is running to make Skagit County safer through de-escalation, accountability, prevention, and partnerships between the police and the community. Under his leadership, the county sheriff’s office implemented a policing model that embeds mental health professionals with law enforcement to provide crisis support that can address a wider set of needs. McDermott’s re-election has earned the support of a number of local county leaders as well as the county Democrats.

    Kevin Ewing is challenging McDermott without a party affiliation but his platform indicates that he is a conservative. Ewing lists a number of jobs under his career experience including rancher, contractor, and businessman. Now, he is running for public office to be a “constitutional sheriff” and wants to focus office dollars and time on attacking sanctuary cities and our neighbors without documentation.

    McDermott is the clear choice in this race and deserves your vote for another term as sheriff of Skagit County.

    Don McDermott

    Democrat Don McDermott is running for re-election for another term as Skagit County sheriff. McDermott has served the county for the last four years and he worked as the undersheriff for the county before that.
  • Skagit County Treasurer Jackie Brunson is running unopposed for re-election. Brunson is a Democrat who was first elected to the role in 2018. Before that, she worked for the county sheriff’s office for more than a decade in administrative services, ending her tenure as the chief.

    Brunson is running for a second term to bring her experience, professionalism, and institutional knowledge to the residents of Skagit County. If re-elected, one of her goals is to continually improve the customer service offered by the office. In this race, Brunson has earned a range of support including from local unions and community leaders.

    Brunson deserves your vote for another term as Skagit County treasurer.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Jackie Brunson

    Skagit County Treasurer Jackie Brunson is running unopposed for re-election. Brunson is a Democrat who was first elected to the role in 2018. Before that, she worked for the county sheriff’s office for more than a decade in administrative services, ending her tenure as the chief.
    Skagit County Treasurer Jackie Brunson is running unopposed for re-election. Brunson is a Democrat who was first elected to the role in 2018. Before that, she worked for the county sheriff’s office for more than a decade in administrative services, ending her tenure as the chief.

    Brunson is running for a second term to bring her experience, professionalism, and institutional knowledge to the residents of Skagit County. If re-elected, one of her goals is to continually improve the customer service offered by the office. In this race, Brunson has earned a range of support including from local unions and community leaders.

    Brunson deserves your vote for another term as Skagit County treasurer.

    Jackie Brunson

    Skagit County Treasurer Jackie Brunson is running unopposed for re-election. Brunson is a Democrat who was first elected to the role in 2018. Before that, she worked for the county sheriff’s office for more than a decade in administrative services, ending her tenure as the chief.
  • Eric Richey is the incumbent prosecuting attorney in Whatcom County and he is running unopposed for re-election. Richey was elected to the prosecutor’s office in 2018. Before that, he served as a deputy prosecutor for more than two decades. Richey also works for the community in a number of volunteer positions including the Brigid Collins Foundation and Whatcom County Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services.

    As prosecutor, Richey has led reform efforts to reduce incarceration in cases of low-level crimes, including founding the county’s Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion program. His other primary goal in office has been to address racial injustice in the criminal legal system, and he joined community members in creating the Racial Equity Commission. If re-elected he wants to continue approaching the office with an equity lens while working to address expensive overcrowding in our prisons and invest in crime prevention and alternatives to incarceration.

    Richey has a good track record and proven commitment to progress. He deserves your vote to remain the Whatcom County prosecutor.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Eric Richey

    Eric Richey is the incumbent prosecuting attorney in Whatcom County and he is running unopposed for re-election. Richey was elected to the prosecutor’s office in 2018. Before that, he served as a deputy prosecutor for more than two decades.
    Eric Richey is the incumbent prosecuting attorney in Whatcom County and he is running unopposed for re-election. Richey was elected to the prosecutor’s office in 2018. Before that, he served as a deputy prosecutor for more than two decades. Richey also works for the community in a number of volunteer positions including the Brigid Collins Foundation and Whatcom County Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services.

    As prosecutor, Richey has led reform efforts to reduce incarceration in cases of low-level crimes, including founding the county’s Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion program. His other primary goal in office has been to address racial injustice in the criminal legal system, and he joined community members in creating the Racial Equity Commission. If re-elected he wants to continue approaching the office with an equity lens while working to address expensive overcrowding in our prisons and invest in crime prevention and alternatives to incarceration.

    Richey has a good track record and proven commitment to progress. He deserves your vote to remain the Whatcom County prosecutor.

    Eric Richey

    Eric Richey is the incumbent prosecuting attorney in Whatcom County and he is running unopposed for re-election. Richey was elected to the prosecutor’s office in 2018. Before that, he served as a deputy prosecutor for more than two decades.
  • Justice Mary Yu is running unopposed to continue serving on the state Supreme Court. Yu was appointed to the Supreme Court in 2014, elected by voters to the seat later that year, and re-elected in 2016. Before joining Washington’s highest court, she spent 14 years as a trial court judge in King County Superior Court and earlier as the deputy chief of staff to former King County prosecutor Norm Maleng.

    Yu has an unimpeachable reputation and has been rated “exceptionally well qualified” by a number of key bar associations. On the court, she has been a voice for equal justice and upholding the rights of all. Now, she is running with endorsements from all of her fellow justices as well as a number of retired justices from the court.

    Justice Yu deserves your vote to continue serving as one of Washington’s state Supreme Court justices.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Mary Yu

    Justice Mary Yu is running unopposed to continue serving on the state Supreme Court. Yu was appointed to the Supreme Court in 2014, elected by voters to the seat later that year, and re-elected in 2016.
    Justice Mary Yu is running unopposed to continue serving on the state Supreme Court. Yu was appointed to the Supreme Court in 2014, elected by voters to the seat later that year, and re-elected in 2016. Before joining Washington’s highest court, she spent 14 years as a trial court judge in King County Superior Court and earlier as the deputy chief of staff to former King County prosecutor Norm Maleng.

    Yu has an unimpeachable reputation and has been rated “exceptionally well qualified” by a number of key bar associations. On the court, she has been a voice for equal justice and upholding the rights of all. Now, she is running with endorsements from all of her fellow justices as well as a number of retired justices from the court.

    Justice Yu deserves your vote to continue serving as one of Washington’s state Supreme Court justices.

    Mary Yu

    Justice Mary Yu is running unopposed to continue serving on the state Supreme Court. Yu was appointed to the Supreme Court in 2014, elected by voters to the seat later that year, and re-elected in 2016.
  • Justice Barbara Madsen has served on the state Supreme Court for 30 years and is running unopposed for re-election this year. She was only the third woman to serve on the court when she was first elected in 1992. During her time on the court, her fellow justices elected her the 55th chief justice of the court – a position she held for 7 years.

    Having spent her career in both prosecution and public defense, Madsen has extensive knowledge of the criminal legal system and a passion for serving her community. Her re-election has been endorsed by each of her fellow justices and a wide range of other judicial leaders and community organizations.

    Justice Madsen has served the state with fair and equal justice. She deserves your vote to remain in her seat on Washington’s Supreme Court.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Barbara Madsen

    Justice Barbara Madsen has served on the state Supreme Court for 30 years and is running unopposed for re-election this year. She was only the third woman to serve on the court when she was first elected in 1992.

    Justice Barbara Madsen has served on the state Supreme Court for 30 years and is running unopposed for re-election this year. She was only the third woman to serve on the court when she was first elected in 1992. During her time on the court, her fellow justices elected her the 55th chief justice of the court – a position she held for 7 years.

    Having spent her career in both prosecution and public defense, Madsen has extensive knowledge of the criminal legal system and a passion for serving her community. Her re-election has been endorsed by each of her fellow justices and a wide range of other judicial leaders and community organizations.

    Justice Madsen has served the state with fair and equal justice. She deserves your vote to remain in her seat on Washington’s Supreme Court.

    Barbara Madsen

    Justice Barbara Madsen has served on the state Supreme Court for 30 years and is running unopposed for re-election this year. She was only the third woman to serve on the court when she was first elected in 1992.

  • Justice G. Helen Whitener is running unopposed for re-election to Position 6 on Washington’s Supreme Court. Whitener became the first Black woman to serve on the state’s Supreme Court in April 2020 when she was appointed to fill a vacancy by Gov. Inslee. Later that year, she won her election to fill the remainder of the term. Prior to joining the Washington Supreme Court, Whitener served on the Pierce County Superior Court and worked as both a prosecutor and a defense attorney before becoming a judge.

    Justice Whitener is both a Trinidadian immigrant and openly gay, and has worked to be a representative voice for justice for all in the state’s highest court. In this race, she has earned the endorsement of each one of her fellow justices as well as some retired justices. Whitener has been rated as "exceptionally well-qualified" by a number of bar associations and has done an exceptional job since joining the court.

    Whitener is an important voice on the State Supreme Court and deserves your voice to continue serving as a justice in Position 6.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    G. Helen Whitener

    Justice G. Helen Whitener is running unopposed for re-election to Position 6 on Washington’s Supreme Court. Whitener became the first Black woman to serve on the state’s Supreme Court in April 2020 when she was appointed to fill a vacancy by Gov. Inslee.
    Justice G. Helen Whitener is running unopposed for re-election to Position 6 on Washington’s Supreme Court. Whitener became the first Black woman to serve on the state’s Supreme Court in April 2020 when she was appointed to fill a vacancy by Gov. Inslee. Later that year, she won her election to fill the remainder of the term. Prior to joining the Washington Supreme Court, Whitener served on the Pierce County Superior Court and worked as both a prosecutor and a defense attorney before becoming a judge.

    Justice Whitener is both a Trinidadian immigrant and openly gay, and has worked to be a representative voice for justice for all in the state’s highest court. In this race, she has earned the endorsement of each one of her fellow justices as well as some retired justices. Whitener has been rated as "exceptionally well-qualified" by a number of bar associations and has done an exceptional job since joining the court.

    Whitener is an important voice on the State Supreme Court and deserves your voice to continue serving as a justice in Position 6.

    G. Helen Whitener

    Justice G. Helen Whitener is running unopposed for re-election to Position 6 on Washington’s Supreme Court. Whitener became the first Black woman to serve on the state’s Supreme Court in April 2020 when she was appointed to fill a vacancy by Gov. Inslee.

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below court races on your ballot. The Progressive Voters Guide may skip recommendations for unopposed judicial races.

  • Jonathan Rands is running for Whatcom County District Court, Position 2 to fill the seat vacated by Judge Matthew Elich. Rands is a criminal defense lawyer who has spent more than two decades as a trial lawyer in local district and municipal courts. He already has four years of judicial experience through his work as a pro tem judge in local courts and he previously served as the president of the Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice.

    Rands wants to bring nonpartisan, community-centric judicial leadership to the court. His goals are to reduce recidivism and seek out restorative justice approaches where possible while fighting for accountability and safety for all. In this race, Rands has received widespread and bipartisan endorsements including from key judicial leaders in the area.

    Also in this race is Gordon Jenkins, a Whatcom County deputy prosecutor. Jenkins previously also worked in defense and he represents the state in Whatcom’s Drug Court. However, he has spent far less time in local courts than Rands and has no judicial experience.

    We recommend Jonathan Rands for Judge Position 2 on the Whatcom County District Court because of his broad community support and his extensive local court experience.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Jonathan Rands

    Jonathan Rands is running for Whatcom County District Court, Position 2 to fill the seat vacated by Judge Matthew Elich. Rands is a criminal defense lawyer who has spent more than two decades as a trial lawyer in local district and municipal courts.

    Jonathan Rands is running for Whatcom County District Court, Position 2 to fill the seat vacated by Judge Matthew Elich. Rands is a criminal defense lawyer who has spent more than two decades as a trial lawyer in local district and municipal courts. He already has four years of judicial experience through his work as a pro tem judge in local courts and he previously served as the president of the Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice.

    Rands wants to bring nonpartisan, community-centric judicial leadership to the court. His goals are to reduce recidivism and seek out restorative justice approaches where possible while fighting for accountability and safety for all. In this race, Rands has received widespread and bipartisan endorsements including from key judicial leaders in the area.

    Also in this race is Gordon Jenkins, a Whatcom County deputy prosecutor. Jenkins previously also worked in defense and he represents the state in Whatcom’s Drug Court. However, he has spent far less time in local courts than Rands and has no judicial experience.

    We recommend Jonathan Rands for Judge Position 2 on the Whatcom County District Court because of his broad community support and his extensive local court experience.

    Jonathan Rands

    Jonathan Rands is running for Whatcom County District Court, Position 2 to fill the seat vacated by Judge Matthew Elich. Rands is a criminal defense lawyer who has spent more than two decades as a trial lawyer in local district and municipal courts.

Public Utilities District

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

  • Former Blaine City Councilmember Jaime Arnett is running for Whatcom County Public Utility District (PUD) in the commissioner 3 seat. Arnett runs a local company that connects people with animals as a form of mental and behavioral therapy. She also works on community housing issues through Habitat for Humanity and previously worked in the local commercial fishing industry.

    If elected, Arnett would represent a progressive voice on the PUD. Her impressive goals for office include bringing free broadband to the county, safeguarding our clean air and water, ensuring responsible and sustainable fishing, and protecting the Nooksack River. With her commercial fishing background and her proven track record of community leadership, Arnett is equipped to advocate for these community issues effectively and collaboratively, while building good communication with the public.

    Also in this race is Eric Davidson, a current Blaine City Council member and registered nurse. Davidson is running on a more vague platform to safeguard Whatcom’s public utilities and he lacks a campaign website as of late September.

    We recommend Jaime Arnett in this race to bring a strong, progressive voice to the Whatcom County PUD as commissioner 3.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Jaime Arnett

    Submitted by stephanie on

    Former Blaine City Councilmember Jaime Arnett is running for Whatcom County Public Utility District (PUD) in the commissioner 3 seat. Arnett runs a local company that connects people with animals as a form of mental and behavioral therapy. She also works on community housing issues through Habitat for Humanity and previously worked in the local commercial fishing industry.

    If elected, Arnett would represent a progressive voice on the PUD. Her impressive goals for office include bringing free broadband to the county, safeguarding our clean air and water, ensuring responsible and sustainable fishing, and protecting the Nooksack River. With her commercial fishing background and her proven track record of community leadership, Arnett is equipped to advocate for these community issues effectively and collaboratively, while building good communication with the public.

    Also in this race is Eric Davidson, a current Blaine City Council member and registered nurse. Davidson is running on a more vague platform to safeguard Whatcom’s public utilities and he lacks a campaign website as of late September.

    We recommend Jaime Arnett in this race to bring a strong, progressive voice to the Whatcom County PUD as commissioner 3.

    Former Blaine City Councilmember Jaime Arnett is running for Whatcom County Public Utility District (PUD) in the commissioner 3 seat. Arnett runs a local company that connects people with animals as a form of mental and behavioral therapy. She also works on community housing issues through Habitat for Humanity and previously worked in the local commercial fishing industry.

    If elected, Arnett would represent a progressive voice on the PUD. Her impressive goals for office include bringing free broadband to the county, safeguarding our clean air and water, ensuring responsible and sustainable fishing, and protecting the Nooksack River. With her commercial fishing background and her proven track record of community leadership, Arnett is equipped to advocate for these community issues effectively and collaboratively, while building good communication with the public.

    Also in this race is Eric Davidson, a current Blaine City Council member and registered nurse. Davidson is running on a more vague platform to safeguard Whatcom’s public utilities and he lacks a campaign website as of late September.

    We recommend Jaime Arnett in this race to bring a strong, progressive voice to the Whatcom County PUD as commissioner 3.

    Jaime Arnett

    Submitted by stephanie on

    Former Blaine City Councilmember Jaime Arnett is running for Whatcom County Public Utility District (PUD) in the commissioner 3 seat. Arnett runs a local company that connects people with animals as a form of mental and behavioral therapy. She also works on community housing issues through Habitat for Humanity and previously worked in the local commercial fishing industry.

    If elected, Arnett would represent a progressive voice on the PUD. Her impressive goals for office include bringing free broadband to the county, safeguarding our clean air and water, ensuring responsible and sustainable fishing, and protecting the Nooksack River. With her commercial fishing background and her proven track record of community leadership, Arnett is equipped to advocate for these community issues effectively and collaboratively, while building good communication with the public.

    Also in this race is Eric Davidson, a current Blaine City Council member and registered nurse. Davidson is running on a more vague platform to safeguard Whatcom’s public utilities and he lacks a campaign website as of late September.

    We recommend Jaime Arnett in this race to bring a strong, progressive voice to the Whatcom County PUD as commissioner 3.

  • Incumbent commissioner Germaine Kornegay is running to retain her seat in District 3 on the Skagit County Public Utilities District. She was originally appointed to this position in 2020 to fill the vacancy left by Eron Berg. Before joining the PUD, Kornegay served on the Sedro-Wooley City Council for seven years and was mayor pro tem during that time. Outside of public service, she runs her own local pet grooming small business and is a community leader, volunteering with multiple local groups including the Oasis Teen Shelter.

    Kornegay’s priorities are an extension of the work she has already begun on the PUD to protect the Snake River and ensure clean drinking water for the district. If elected back to the seat, she also wants to focus on utility worker protections and investments in infrastructure to deliver the best service possible to Skagit County residents. In this race, Kornegay has received endorsements from an impressive number of elected leaders and progressive organizations.

    Corrin Hamburg is challenging Kornegay for the District 3 seat in this race. Hamburg currently works for Skagit Valley College doing classroom and instruction support and she has worked for the City of Anacortes Wastewater Treatment Plant. Hamburg’s campaign has earned the support of the county Republicans in this race.

    We recommend Germaine Kornegay for District 3 commissioner on the Skagit County Public Utility District because of her strong record of community leadership and progressive support.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Germaine Kornegay

    Submitted by alexwhite on
    Incumbent commissioner Germaine Kornegay is running to retain her seat in District 3 on the Skagit County Public Utilities District. She was originally appointed to this position in 2020 to fill the vacancy left by Eron Berg. Before joining the PUD, Kornegay served on the Sedro-Wooley City Council for seven years and was mayor pro tem during that time. Outside of public service, she runs her own local pet grooming small business and is a community leader, volunteering with multiple local groups including the Oasis Teen Shelter.

    Kornegay’s priorities are an extension of the work she has already begun on the PUD to protect the Snake River and ensure clean drinking water for the district. If elected back to the seat, she also wants to focus on utility worker protections and investments in infrastructure to deliver the best service possible to Skagit County residents. In this race, Kornegay has received endorsements from an impressive number of elected leaders and progressive organizations.

    Corrin Hamburg is challenging Kornegay for the District 3 seat in this race. Hamburg currently works for Skagit Valley College doing classroom and instruction support and she has worked for the City of Anacortes Wastewater Treatment Plant. Hamburg’s campaign has earned the support of the county Republicans in this race.

    We recommend Germaine Kornegay for District 3 commissioner on the Skagit County Public Utility District because of her strong record of community leadership and progressive support.
    Public Utilities District
    Incumbent commissioner Germaine Kornegay is running to retain her seat in District 3 on the Skagit County Public Utilities District. She was originally appointed to this position in 2020 to fill the vacancy left by Eron Berg. Before joining the PUD, Kornegay served on the Sedro-Wooley City Council for seven years and was mayor pro tem during that time. Outside of public service, she runs her own local pet grooming small business and is a community leader, volunteering with multiple local groups including the Oasis Teen Shelter.

    Kornegay’s priorities are an extension of the work she has already begun on the PUD to protect the Snake River and ensure clean drinking water for the district. If elected back to the seat, she also wants to focus on utility worker protections and investments in infrastructure to deliver the best service possible to Skagit County residents. In this race, Kornegay has received endorsements from an impressive number of elected leaders and progressive organizations.

    Corrin Hamburg is challenging Kornegay for the District 3 seat in this race. Hamburg currently works for Skagit Valley College doing classroom and instruction support and she has worked for the City of Anacortes Wastewater Treatment Plant. Hamburg’s campaign has earned the support of the county Republicans in this race.

    We recommend Germaine Kornegay for District 3 commissioner on the Skagit County Public Utility District because of her strong record of community leadership and progressive support.

    Germaine Kornegay

    Submitted by alexwhite on
    Incumbent commissioner Germaine Kornegay is running to retain her seat in District 3 on the Skagit County Public Utilities District. She was originally appointed to this position in 2020 to fill the vacancy left by Eron Berg. Before joining the PUD, Kornegay served on the Sedro-Wooley City Council for seven years and was mayor pro tem during that time. Outside of public service, she runs her own local pet grooming small business and is a community leader, volunteering with multiple local groups including the Oasis Teen Shelter.

    Kornegay’s priorities are an extension of the work she has already begun on the PUD to protect the Snake River and ensure clean drinking water for the district. If elected back to the seat, she also wants to focus on utility worker protections and investments in infrastructure to deliver the best service possible to Skagit County residents. In this race, Kornegay has received endorsements from an impressive number of elected leaders and progressive organizations.

    Corrin Hamburg is challenging Kornegay for the District 3 seat in this race. Hamburg currently works for Skagit Valley College doing classroom and instruction support and she has worked for the City of Anacortes Wastewater Treatment Plant. Hamburg’s campaign has earned the support of the county Republicans in this race.

    We recommend Germaine Kornegay for District 3 commissioner on the Skagit County Public Utility District because of her strong record of community leadership and progressive support.
    Public Utilities District

School Districts

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

  • VOTE YES

    Vote Approved for rebuilding Renton schools

  • Our students deserve modern and safe facilities where they can learn and grow. Proposition 1 for the Highline School District 401 would invest in critical upgrades to school infrastructure so that our students can equitably access a quality education.

    If passed, the proposition would provide $518 million to rebuild three aging schools: Evergreen High School, Tyee High School, and Pacific Middle School. It would also allow general capital improvements for the entire school district. The owner of a median $600,000 home in the Highline school district would pay about $396 per year to support local classrooms through these bonds.

    Vote “Approved” on Highline School District 401, Proposition 1 to invest in our students by giving them a safe and well-resourced place to learn.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Our students deserve modern and safe facilities where they can learn and grow. Proposition 1 for the Highline School District 401 would invest in critical upgrades to school infrastructure so that our students can equitably access a quality education.

    If passed, the proposition would provide $518 million to rebuild three aging schools: Evergreen High School, Tyee High School, and Pacific Middle School. It would also allow general capital improvements for the entire school district. The owner of a median $600,000 home in the Highline school district would pay about $396 per year to support local classrooms through these bonds.

    Vote “Approved” on Highline School District 401, Proposition 1 to invest in our students by giving them a safe and well-resourced place to learn.
    Our students deserve modern and safe facilities where they can learn and grow. Proposition 1 for the Highline School District 401 would invest in critical upgrades to school infrastructure so that our students can equitably access a quality education.

    If passed, the proposition would provide $518 million to rebuild three aging schools: Evergreen High School, Tyee High School, and Pacific Middle School. It would also allow general capital improvements for the entire school district. The owner of a median $600,000 home in the Highline school district would pay about $396 per year to support local classrooms through these bonds.

    Vote “Approved” on Highline School District 401, Proposition 1 to invest in our students by giving them a safe and well-resourced place to learn.

    Bonds to Replace and Improve Deteriorating Schools

    Our students deserve modern and safe facilities where they can learn and grow. Proposition 1 for the Highline School District 401 would invest in critical upgrades to school infrastructure so that our students can equitably access a quality education.
  • VOTE YES

    Vote Approved for new Nooksack Valley school districts

  • The Nooksack Valley School District Board wants to adapt the board structure to best serve the diverse needs of the district and ensure everyone is represented. Prompted by demographic changes and new data for the school district, the school board directors have agreed on a plan to reapportion the director districts.

    The Nooksack Valley School District Proposition 7 proposes to dissolve the five director districts into three distinct director districts and two new at-large seats, keeping the total number of seats at five. This new arrangement would give voters more of a say for who sits on the board.

    Vote “Approved” on Nooksack Valley School District Proposition 7.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    The Nooksack Valley School District Board wants to adapt the board structure to best serve the diverse needs of the district and ensure everyone is represented. Prompted by demographic changes and new data for the school district, the school board directors have agreed on a plan to reapportion the director districts.

    The Nooksack Valley School District Proposition 7 proposes to dissolve the five director districts into three distinct director districts and two new at-large seats, keeping the total number of seats at five. This new arrangement would give voters more of a say for who sits on the board.

    Vote “Approved” on Nooksack Valley School District Proposition 7.
    The Nooksack Valley School District Board wants to adapt the board structure to best serve the diverse needs of the district and ensure everyone is represented. Prompted by demographic changes and new data for the school district, the school board directors have agreed on a plan to reapportion the director districts.

    The Nooksack Valley School District Proposition 7 proposes to dissolve the five director districts into three distinct director districts and two new at-large seats, keeping the total number of seats at five. This new arrangement would give voters more of a say for who sits on the board.

    Vote “Approved” on Nooksack Valley School District Proposition 7.
  • VOTE YES

    Vote Approved for Renton school infrastructure updates

  • Renton students need safe, secure, and well-resourced schools in order to succeed. Proposition 1 for Renton School District 403 would provide much-needed investments in capital improvements and critical upgrades for district schools.

    The $676 million measure proposes to replace the aging Renton High School and make safety, security, and seismic infrastructure updates across the district. The proposition will go a long way toward ensuring our students have the best environments to learn in.

    Vote “Approved” to Proposition 1 in Renton School District 403.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Renton students need safe, secure, and well-resourced schools in order to succeed. Proposition 1 for Renton School District 403 would provide much-needed investments in capital improvements and critical upgrades for district schools.

    The $676 million measure proposes to replace the aging Renton High School and make safety, security, and seismic infrastructure updates across the district. The proposition will go a long way toward ensuring our students have the best environments to learn in.

    Vote “Approved” to Proposition 1 in Renton School District 403.
    Renton students need safe, secure, and well-resourced schools in order to succeed. Proposition 1 for Renton School District 403 would provide much-needed investments in capital improvements and critical upgrades for district schools.

    The $676 million measure proposes to replace the aging Renton High School and make safety, security, and seismic infrastructure updates across the district. The proposition will go a long way toward ensuring our students have the best environments to learn in.

    Vote “Approved” to Proposition 1 in Renton School District 403.

    Bonds to Improve Safety and Replace Renton High School

    Renton students need safe, secure, and well-resourced schools in order to succeed. Proposition 1 for Renton School District 403 would provide much-needed investments in capital improvements and critical upgrades for district schools.