With unwavering integrity, Joint Council of Teamsters No. 28 empowers and supports our Local Unions and their membership across Washington, Alaska, and Northern Idaho. Through organizing, education, and political action we will expand the rights, wages, and benefits of working families. Moving forward, united as one.
Teamsters Joint Council 28 Endorsements
Snohomish County
Depending on where you live, you may have the below county races on your ballot.
Incumbent Dave Somers is running for re-election for Snohomish County Executive. A former member of the Snohomish County Council, Somers has served as executive since 2016, where he manages twelve county offices, including Human Services, Medical Examiner, and Emergency Management.
In his previous term, Somers has supported measures to create parks and open spaces, invest in alternative fuels, aid salmon recovery, and develop the Snohomish County Housing Task Force to help meet the affordable housing needs of the community. More recently, Somers announced the Snohomish County Outreach Team (SCOUT) to pair social workers with law enforcement on behavioral health calls. Somers has also awarded $500,000 in federal recovery dollars for two new youth and family resource centers in the South County Korean Community Service Center and The Clearwater School. These two centers will help advance culturally-appropriate health services, community workshops, food access, and support for LGBTQ youth and families.
Somers faces challenges from Republican Bob Hagglund and Democrat Christopher Garnett. Hagglund has served as the Snohomish County Republican Legislative District committee chairman since 2020 and he ran for secretary of state in 2022. In an interview with the Everett Herald, Hagglund said that he voted for Trump in 2020 and hopes more Republicans will run on new ideas. Despite that, he touts tired old ideas like “get treatment or go to jail” policies that have failed to address the root causes of homelessness and often end in cycling people through jail who may simply need affordable housing or small amounts of support.
The other challenger, Democrat Christopher Garnett, has yet to raise any money or launch a campaign website with a platform as of early July. A brief line from an interview in a local paper quotes Garnett as promising 'rational' affordability and careful consideration of mental health resources.
Somers is by far the best choice for Snohomish County Executive.
Incumbent Dave Somers is running for re-election for Snohomish County Executive. A former member of the Snohomish County Council, Somers has served as executive since 2016, where he manages twelve county offices, including Human Services, Medical Examiner, and Emergency Management.
In his previous term, Somers has supported measures to create parks and open spaces, invest in alternative fuels, aid salmon recovery, and develop the Snohomish County Housing Task Force to help meet the affordable housing needs of the community. More recently, Somers announced the Snohomish County Outreach Team (SCOUT) to pair social workers with law enforcement on behavioral health calls. Somers has also awarded $500,000 in federal recovery dollars for two new youth and family resource centers in the South County Korean Community Service Center and The Clearwater School. These two centers will help advance culturally-appropriate health services, community workshops, food access, and support for LGBTQ youth and families.
Somers faces challenges from Republican Bob Hagglund and Democrat Christopher Garnett. Hagglund has served as the Snohomish County Republican Legislative District committee chairman since 2020 and he ran for secretary of state in 2022. In an interview with the Everett Herald, Hagglund said that he voted for Trump in 2020 and hopes more Republicans will run on new ideas. Despite that, he touts tired old ideas like “get treatment or go to jail” policies that have failed to address the root causes of homelessness and often end in cycling people through jail who may simply need affordable housing or small amounts of support.
The other challenger, Democrat Christopher Garnett, has yet to raise any money or launch a campaign website with a platform as of early July. A brief line from an interview in a local paper quotes Garnett as promising 'rational' affordability and careful consideration of mental health resources.
Somers is by far the best choice for Snohomish County Executive.
Whatcom County Council
Depending on where you live, you may have the below county council races on your ballot.
Democratic Party activist and human rights advocate Jon Scanlon is running for At-Large, Position B on the Whatcom County Council. This seat is open following the retirement of Carol Frazey. Previously, Scanlon worked at the U.S. State Department and with OxFam America doing humanitarian work. In addition, he has been a consistent volunteer and elected leader within the Whatcom County Democrats.
Scanlon is running for office with a focus on affordability and environmental conservation. In particular, he would work to strengthen protections against flooding, ensure access to clean air and water, and preserve the county's farmlands and forests. His two decades of public policy and advocacy experience would also be a welcome addition to the council.
Scanlon has earned an impressive slate of progressive endorsements and is the best choice for Whatcom County Council, At-Large Position B.
Democratic Party activist and human rights advocate Jon Scanlon is running for At-Large, Position B on the Whatcom County Council. This seat is open following the retirement of Carol Frazey. Previously, Scanlon worked at the U.S. State Department and with OxFam America doing humanitarian work. In addition, he has been a consistent volunteer and elected leader within the Whatcom County Democrats.
Scanlon is running for office with a focus on affordability and environmental conservation. In particular, he would work to strengthen protections against flooding, ensure access to clean air and water, and preserve the county's farmlands and forests. His two decades of public policy and advocacy experience would also be a welcome addition to the council.
Scanlon has earned an impressive slate of progressive endorsements and is the best choice for Whatcom County Council, At-Large Position B.
County Council District Races
King County, District 4
Jorge Barón is running to bring a holistic vision of equity, justice, and prosperity for all to King County.
As the executive director of the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NWIRP), Barón has dedicated the last 15 years to helping to establish the civil rights division in the Attorney General's office and fighting the Trump administration's deportation policies and family separation. He has been frequently recognized for this work, including receiving the MLK Medal of Distinguished Service from the King County Council in 2018 and being named one of the Most Influential Seattleites in Seattle Magazine in 2017.
Barón plans to use his executive nonprofit experience to better coordinate organizations around the region on housing and other issues. He believes the county should address disparities in our communities, from providing resources to communities most challenged by the effects of climate change to ensuring that everyone can access public transit.
A racial justice and equity focus is strongly interwoven in Barón's proposals. In our interview, he noted that a large portion of the county's budget - about 70 percent - is invested in “justice and safety," which is actually the criminal legal system. This is investing resources in a system that generates outcomes we do not want, namely, mass incarceration. Barón suggested increasing the percentage of the general fund that goes toward improving behavioral health programs and increasing diversionary and community-based restorative justice initiatives. As a member of the Joint Legislative Task Force on the Use of Deadly Force in Community Policing, he agrees with Reyneveld and Poppe on increasing police oversight and accountability.
Given his particular experience, Barón is probably the most distinct candidate in this race. The accomplishment of which he is most proud is rallying 63 organizations across the state to provide funds for asylum seekers, including legal assistance and expansion of services. Barón is a great choice if you are looking for an experienced nonprofit leader who will bring new perspectives to the King County Council with a record of coalition building and effective advocacy.
Jorge Barón is running to bring a holistic vision of equity, justice, and prosperity for all to King County.
As the executive director of the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NWIRP), Barón has dedicated the last 15 years to helping to establish the civil rights division in the Attorney General's office and fighting the Trump administration's deportation policies and family separation. He has been frequently recognized for this work, including receiving the MLK Medal of Distinguished Service from the King County Council in 2018 and being named one of the Most Influential Seattleites in Seattle Magazine in 2017.
Barón plans to use his executive nonprofit experience to better coordinate organizations around the region on housing and other issues. He believes the county should address disparities in our communities, from providing resources to communities most challenged by the effects of climate change to ensuring that everyone can access public transit.
A racial justice and equity focus is strongly interwoven in Barón's proposals. In our interview, he noted that a large portion of the county's budget - about 70 percent - is invested in “justice and safety," which is actually the criminal legal system. This is investing resources in a system that generates outcomes we do not want, namely, mass incarceration. Barón suggested increasing the percentage of the general fund that goes toward improving behavioral health programs and increasing diversionary and community-based restorative justice initiatives. As a member of the Joint Legislative Task Force on the Use of Deadly Force in Community Policing, he agrees with Reyneveld and Poppe on increasing police oversight and accountability.
Given his particular experience, Barón is probably the most distinct candidate in this race. The accomplishment of which he is most proud is rallying 63 organizations across the state to provide funds for asylum seekers, including legal assistance and expansion of services. Barón is a great choice if you are looking for an experienced nonprofit leader who will bring new perspectives to the King County Council with a record of coalition building and effective advocacy.
King County, District 8
Seattle City Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda is now running for King County Council from District 8. She was first elected to the Seattle City Council in 2017. Mosqueda previously worked at the Washington State Department of Health, Children’s Alliance, Community Health Plan of Washington, and the Washington State Labor Council, with a focus on worker's rights and children's healthcare. Among other community roles, she also served on the board of Fuse Washington, which publishes this guide.
Mosqueda has distinguished herself as a progressive leader on the Seattle City Council. She sponsored the Jumpstart Seattle legislation, which funds affordable housing through a tax on high earners at large corporations. In addition, she supported efforts to expand paid sick leave and establish minimum wages for gig and other workers who have often been left behind in our economy. Her current goal is passing the 2023 Housing Levy, which will be on the ballot for Seattle voters this November and would provide funding for crucial affordable housing, childcare services, and communal and cultural spaces that are disappearing from the city.
If elected to the county council, Mosqueda hopes to use her experience to address new and pressing issues in the county. Some of her priorities include finding locations for the six new county behavioral health centers, building workforce housing outside of Seattle, increasing apprenticeship programs, and more.
Mosqueda is the clear choice for King County Council from District 8.
Seattle City Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda is now running for King County Council from District 8. She was first elected to the Seattle City Council in 2017. Mosqueda previously worked at the Washington State Department of Health, Children’s Alliance, Community Health Plan of Washington, and the Washington State Labor Council, with a focus on worker's rights and children's healthcare. Among other community roles, she also served on the board of Fuse Washington, which publishes this guide.
Mosqueda has distinguished herself as a progressive leader on the Seattle City Council. She sponsored the Jumpstart Seattle legislation, which funds affordable housing through a tax on high earners at large corporations. In addition, she supported efforts to expand paid sick leave and establish minimum wages for gig and other workers who have often been left behind in our economy. Her current goal is passing the 2023 Housing Levy, which will be on the ballot for Seattle voters this November and would provide funding for crucial affordable housing, childcare services, and communal and cultural spaces that are disappearing from the city.
If elected to the county council, Mosqueda hopes to use her experience to address new and pressing issues in the county. Some of her priorities include finding locations for the six new county behavioral health centers, building workforce housing outside of Seattle, increasing apprenticeship programs, and more.
Mosqueda is the clear choice for King County Council from District 8.
Thurston County, District 4
Depending on where you live, you may have the following county races on your ballot.
Wayne Fournier is running for Thurston County Commissioner, Position 4 - a new seat created this year. Born and raised in Tenino, Fournier served as a parole officer, firefighter, and city council member before being elected as Tenino's mayor in 2015.
Fournier's platform includes opposing a new airport, providing better representation for south Thurston County residents, and funding infrastructure, first responders, and local culture.
During his years as mayor, Fournier doubled the city budget, renovated every city-owned facility, and obtained a $750,000 grant for playgrounds. He was named best mayor in Western Washington by KING 5 in 2017 and gained national attention during the pandemic for starting a local currency program that gave residents wooden money to spend exclusively at businesses in the city.
Fournier has faced a few notable scandals. He served two years in a diversion program for allegedly slapping a phone out of the hand of a local bartender in 2019. In 2020, while under his mayorship, the city of Tenino was scammed out of $280,000, leading to a recall effort. However, the recall attempt was dismissed and Tenino ended up netting $70,000 when the city sued their insurance company over the scam.
Aside from Fournier, the other candidate for this position is conservative Vivian Eason, who ran for county commissioner as a Republican in 2022. Eason is a retired army veteran who previously worked with the Thurston County Sheriff's Office. She blames the commonsense accountability measures that Washington placed on police for peoples' struggle with drug addiction and homelessness and would make funding police her top priority.
Although his career is not free of controversy, Fournier's mayorship has shown his support for labor unions and funding the public infrastructure that helps our communities thrive. Fournier is the best choice in this race.
Wayne Fournier is running for Thurston County Commissioner, Position 4 - a new seat created this year. Born and raised in Tenino, Fournier served as a parole officer, firefighter, and city council member before being elected as Tenino's mayor in 2015.
Fournier's platform includes opposing a new airport, providing better representation for south Thurston County residents, and funding infrastructure, first responders, and local culture.
During his years as mayor, Fournier doubled the city budget, renovated every city-owned facility, and obtained a $750,000 grant for playgrounds. He was named best mayor in Western Washington by KING 5 in 2017 and gained national attention during the pandemic for starting a local currency program that gave residents wooden money to spend exclusively at businesses in the city.
Fournier has faced a few notable scandals. He served two years in a diversion program for allegedly slapping a phone out of the hand of a local bartender in 2019. In 2020, while under his mayorship, the city of Tenino was scammed out of $280,000, leading to a recall effort. However, the recall attempt was dismissed and Tenino ended up netting $70,000 when the city sued their insurance company over the scam.
Aside from Fournier, the other candidate for this position is conservative Vivian Eason, who ran for county commissioner as a Republican in 2022. Eason is a retired army veteran who previously worked with the Thurston County Sheriff's Office. She blames the commonsense accountability measures that Washington placed on police for peoples' struggle with drug addiction and homelessness and would make funding police her top priority.
Although his career is not free of controversy, Fournier's mayorship has shown his support for labor unions and funding the public infrastructure that helps our communities thrive. Fournier is the best choice in this race.
Port Races
Port of Olympia
Jasmine Vasavada is running for the District 1 seat on the Port of Olympia being vacated by the retiring Commissioner Joe Downing. Vasavada is the director of policy and government affairs for the Washington State Department of Commerce where she strives to help Washington communities and economies thrive. She has worked in public service for years and, before that, she used her law degree for public interest advocacy and legislation.
Vasavada is running on a broadly progressive platform to generate community economic prosperity, protect Thurston’s ecosystem, and build a culture of diversity and belonging at the port. She wants to invest in broadband for rural farms and ranches, innovate support for small businesses, create living wage jobs, clean up Budd Bay, restore the Deschutes Estuary, and collaborate with the community, including seeking partnerships with tribal governments. In this race, Vasavada has been endorsed by progressive elected leaders at the state and local level and community organizations including political, labor, and advocacy groups.
Vasavada is facing two opponents in this race: Bill McGregor and Skye Campbell-Ragsdale. Former commissioner McGregor served on Olympia’s elected port commission for 15 years. Before that, he spent his decades-long career working at a number of different Washington ports in high-level operations positions, including at the Port of Olympia. McGregor is also active on a number of community boards. If elected to serve again, he wants to improve economic investment in the community, prioritize environmental stewardship, and lead by engaging the community.
Campbell-Ragsdale is a first-time candidate with a professional background in fulfillment and assembly. Campbell-Ragsdale served as a member of the planning commission and credits their campaign to a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship. In this race, they want to push the port further on climate commitments and employ a local-first and ecologically mindful approach to all economic development initiatives. Campbell-Ragsdale wants to lead the port so that generations to come can benefit from Olympia’s economic and environmental vitality.
We recommend Vasavada for Port of Olympia, District 1 because of her strong platform and impressive endorsements from progressive advocates.
Jasmine Vasavada is running for the District 1 seat on the Port of Olympia being vacated by the retiring Commissioner Joe Downing. Vasavada is the director of policy and government affairs for the Washington State Department of Commerce where she strives to help Washington communities and economies thrive. She has worked in public service for years and, before that, she used her law degree for public interest advocacy and legislation.
Vasavada is running on a broadly progressive platform to generate community economic prosperity, protect Thurston’s ecosystem, and build a culture of diversity and belonging at the port. She wants to invest in broadband for rural farms and ranches, innovate support for small businesses, create living wage jobs, clean up Budd Bay, restore the Deschutes Estuary, and collaborate with the community, including seeking partnerships with tribal governments. In this race, Vasavada has been endorsed by progressive elected leaders at the state and local level and community organizations including political, labor, and advocacy groups.
Vasavada is facing two opponents in this race: Bill McGregor and Skye Campbell-Ragsdale. Former commissioner McGregor served on Olympia’s elected port commission for 15 years. Before that, he spent his decades-long career working at a number of different Washington ports in high-level operations positions, including at the Port of Olympia. McGregor is also active on a number of community boards. If elected to serve again, he wants to improve economic investment in the community, prioritize environmental stewardship, and lead by engaging the community.
Campbell-Ragsdale is a first-time candidate with a professional background in fulfillment and assembly. Campbell-Ragsdale served as a member of the planning commission and credits their campaign to a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship. In this race, they want to push the port further on climate commitments and employ a local-first and ecologically mindful approach to all economic development initiatives. Campbell-Ragsdale wants to lead the port so that generations to come can benefit from Olympia’s economic and environmental vitality.
We recommend Vasavada for Port of Olympia, District 1 because of her strong platform and impressive endorsements from progressive advocates.
Maggie Sanders is running for the newly created District 4 seat on the Port of Olympia. Sanders identifies as a “triple citizen” of the United States, of the Washington community at-large, and of the Makah tribe. She has dedicated her career to public service, working in environmental stewardship, workforce development, and community advocacy, particularly for tribal representation and within the Makah tribe. In her most recent position, Sanders advocated for clean air, representing local tribes as a commissioner on the Environmental Protection Agency’s National Tribal Air Association.
If elected, Sanders wants to be a staunch advocate for environmental and community concerns on the port. She believes that there can’t be economic development without both community and workforce development to ensure that port investments can lift all boats. Her extensive experience in public service and expertise in public administration paired with her demonstrated progressive values position her well to execute her campaign priorities. In this race, Sanders has far outpaced her opponents in progressive endorsements.
Sanders faces three opponents in this race for the new commissioner seat. Rose Chiu Gundersen is a first-time candidate and business leader. Gundersen grew up in Hong Kong and has established herself strongly in the community as a small business owner, liaison for small businesses to the Washington State Department of Labor, and most recently in high-level retail services for the Washington Retail Association. She co-founded Washington Trafficking Prevention. In this campaign, her top priority is to beautify the waterfront to make Thurston County a destination, and she also wants to combat human trafficking, create living wage jobs, and invest in some environmental clean-ups.
Also in this race is Joanna Manson, a professional city planner. Manson has held community leadership positions with the International Division of the American Planning Association and her church, and she volunteers with The Nature Conservancy and with the county’s Earth Day programming. While she displays a strong grasp of port procedures and issues, she lacks a bold progressive vision. If elected, she wants to ensure effective and responsible port governance that reflects the needs of all residents, including rural voices.
Bill Moomau is the final candidate in this race. Moomau spent three decades at the Department of Labor and Industries. He volunteers for a number of AIDS-related advocacy groups and previously served as the director of the Thurston County Fairboard. Moomau’s campaign platform is heavily focused on economic planning for the port and lacks some of the community and environmental considerations of his opponents. However, he does have some ideas for using port resources to mitigate the housing crisis.
We recommend Maggie Sanders for Port of Olympia, District 4 to bring her progressive vision and public service experience to the commission.
Maggie Sanders is running for the newly created District 4 seat on the Port of Olympia. Sanders identifies as a “triple citizen” of the United States, of the Washington community at-large, and of the Makah tribe. She has dedicated her career to public service, working in environmental stewardship, workforce development, and community advocacy, particularly for tribal representation and within the Makah tribe. In her most recent position, Sanders advocated for clean air, representing local tribes as a commissioner on the Environmental Protection Agency’s National Tribal Air Association.
If elected, Sanders wants to be a staunch advocate for environmental and community concerns on the port. She believes that there can’t be economic development without both community and workforce development to ensure that port investments can lift all boats. Her extensive experience in public service and expertise in public administration paired with her demonstrated progressive values position her well to execute her campaign priorities. In this race, Sanders has far outpaced her opponents in progressive endorsements.
Sanders faces three opponents in this race for the new commissioner seat. Rose Chiu Gundersen is a first-time candidate and business leader. Gundersen grew up in Hong Kong and has established herself strongly in the community as a small business owner, liaison for small businesses to the Washington State Department of Labor, and most recently in high-level retail services for the Washington Retail Association. She co-founded Washington Trafficking Prevention. In this campaign, her top priority is to beautify the waterfront to make Thurston County a destination, and she also wants to combat human trafficking, create living wage jobs, and invest in some environmental clean-ups.
Also in this race is Joanna Manson, a professional city planner. Manson has held community leadership positions with the International Division of the American Planning Association and her church, and she volunteers with The Nature Conservancy and with the county’s Earth Day programming. While she displays a strong grasp of port procedures and issues, she lacks a bold progressive vision. If elected, she wants to ensure effective and responsible port governance that reflects the needs of all residents, including rural voices.
Bill Moomau is the final candidate in this race. Moomau spent three decades at the Department of Labor and Industries. He volunteers for a number of AIDS-related advocacy groups and previously served as the director of the Thurston County Fairboard. Moomau’s campaign platform is heavily focused on economic planning for the port and lacks some of the community and environmental considerations of his opponents. However, he does have some ideas for using port resources to mitigate the housing crisis.
We recommend Maggie Sanders for Port of Olympia, District 4 to bring her progressive vision and public service experience to the commission.
Port of Seattle
Incumbent Fred Felleman is an environmental consultant and marine biologist. He is running for re-election to the Seattle Port Commission, Position 5 as the senior member of the commission, having served since 2016. With his science background, Felleman has pledged to continue supporting environmentally friendly reforms at the port.
In his time as commissioner, Felleman has focused on fighting climate change and increasing the port's green energy jobs. He has been a leader on the commission when it comes to protecting orcas, publicly opposing the dangerous Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain pipeline, and advocating for well-paying jobs. Elected commission president in 2021, he has recently supported more efficient and greener policies at the port to reduce pollution, including adding solar panels to Fishermen's Terminal's net shed and powering new docks so that ships don't have to idle and burn additional fuel.
Felleman often supports social causes as well, including condemning Trump's Muslim ban and government agencies’ response at the airport, as well as welcoming Ukranian refugees, with Washington hosting 16,000 refugees, the third most of any state in the U.S.
Felleman has earned your vote for Port of Seatle, Position #5.
Incumbent Fred Felleman is an environmental consultant and marine biologist. He is running for re-election to the Seattle Port Commission, Position 5 as the senior member of the commission, having served since 2016. With his science background, Felleman has pledged to continue supporting environmentally friendly reforms at the port.
In his time as commissioner, Felleman has focused on fighting climate change and increasing the port's green energy jobs. He has been a leader on the commission when it comes to protecting orcas, publicly opposing the dangerous Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain pipeline, and advocating for well-paying jobs. Elected commission president in 2021, he has recently supported more efficient and greener policies at the port to reduce pollution, including adding solar panels to Fishermen's Terminal's net shed and powering new docks so that ships don't have to idle and burn additional fuel.
Felleman often supports social causes as well, including condemning Trump's Muslim ban and government agencies’ response at the airport, as well as welcoming Ukranian refugees, with Washington hosting 16,000 refugees, the third most of any state in the U.S.
Felleman has earned your vote for Port of Seatle, Position #5.
Snohomish County Superior Court
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.
Judge Patrick Moriarty is running to retain his seat on the Snohomish County Superior Court in Position 17. Moriarty was appointed to this position by Governor Inslee in 2022 to fill a newly created seat on the court. Before his appointment, Moriarty worked as a court commissioner for the county’s superior court, spent almost two decades as a judge pro tem in the county, and practiced law for almost three decades. In his law career, he has served as the assistant city attorney of Seattle, a public defender, and a private attorney in criminal defense and family law attorney.
The superior court is where Snohomish community members have important criminal, civil, and family matters adjudicated. Moriarty recognizes the importance role judges play for the Snohomish community and wants to continue utilizing his extensive legal expertise to bring fair and experienced leadership to the court. In this race, he has earned an impressive roster of progressive endorsements from community organizations, labor groups, local Democrats, and elected officials. Moriarty has also been endorsed by every sitting judge at all levels in Snohomish County.
Judge Moriarty faces two challengers in this race, Jody Cloutier and Mary Anderson. Cloutier is a private attorney, an adjunct law professor, and the commissioner pro tem for the county’s superior court. His interest in the justice system stemmed from his childhood touched by substance abuse, domestic violence, and housing insecurity as well as his years serving as a police officer in Maine. Unfortunately, Cloutier lacks the judicial experience and community endorsements of Moriarty.
Mary Anderson is a private attorney who started her own firm and has a strong background in civil cases. She was driven to a career in law after her family suffered injustice. Now, Anderson serves as her clients’ unwavering advocate in a range of matters, and she also offers pro bono legal support and volunteers with the community’s most vulnerable. One of her priorities as a lawyer and as an aspiring judge is to ensure that all Snohomish community members know their rights and have their rights respected in the courts.
Judge Patrick Moriarty is the only candidate in this race with judicial experience. We recommend Moriarty in this race to retain Position 17 on the Snohomish County Superior Court.
Judge Patrick Moriarty is running to retain his seat on the Snohomish County Superior Court in Position 17. Moriarty was appointed to this position by Governor Inslee in 2022 to fill a newly created seat on the court. Before his appointment, Moriarty worked as a court commissioner for the county’s superior court, spent almost two decades as a judge pro tem in the county, and practiced law for almost three decades. In his law career, he has served as the assistant city attorney of Seattle, a public defender, and a private attorney in criminal defense and family law attorney.
The superior court is where Snohomish community members have important criminal, civil, and family matters adjudicated. Moriarty recognizes the importance role judges play for the Snohomish community and wants to continue utilizing his extensive legal expertise to bring fair and experienced leadership to the court. In this race, he has earned an impressive roster of progressive endorsements from community organizations, labor groups, local Democrats, and elected officials. Moriarty has also been endorsed by every sitting judge at all levels in Snohomish County.
Judge Moriarty faces two challengers in this race, Jody Cloutier and Mary Anderson. Cloutier is a private attorney, an adjunct law professor, and the commissioner pro tem for the county’s superior court. His interest in the justice system stemmed from his childhood touched by substance abuse, domestic violence, and housing insecurity as well as his years serving as a police officer in Maine. Unfortunately, Cloutier lacks the judicial experience and community endorsements of Moriarty.
Mary Anderson is a private attorney who started her own firm and has a strong background in civil cases. She was driven to a career in law after her family suffered injustice. Now, Anderson serves as her clients’ unwavering advocate in a range of matters, and she also offers pro bono legal support and volunteers with the community’s most vulnerable. One of her priorities as a lawyer and as an aspiring judge is to ensure that all Snohomish community members know their rights and have their rights respected in the courts.
Judge Patrick Moriarty is the only candidate in this race with judicial experience. We recommend Moriarty in this race to retain Position 17 on the Snohomish County Superior Court.
City Races
Auburn City Council
Hanan Amer is running for Auburn City Council, Position 7, seeking to replace retiring Council member Bob Baggett. With a background as a chemist at Boeing, Amer has demonstrated a strong commitment to community service by volunteering at various local organizations such as the food bank, libraries, and Girl Scouts of Western Washington. Amer's involvement also extends to assisting with tax preparation through United Way of King County.
Endorsed by progressive former state senator Mona Das and the 47th Legislative District Democrats, Amer is dedicated to empowering and engaging community members. Her progressive platform centers around key issues such as reducing homelessness, addressing climate change, and tackling the drug epidemic.
Amer advocates for the creation of more affordable housing in Auburn to provide safe and permanent shelter for the over 300 people experiencing homelessness in the area. She also supports increased access to mental health services to meet the needs of the community. In her efforts to combat climate change, Amer emphasizes investing in expanded public transportation to reduce carbon emissions and pollution.
Taking a comprehensive approach to the drug epidemic, Amer proposes the establishment of a safe injection site, offering a medically supervised environment for individuals struggling with addiction to seek help. Additionally, she aims to increase assistance for those suffering from opioid addiction, aiming to reduce overdose deaths.
Amer faces two opponents in this race: Brian Lott and Ofa Langi. Lott is running on a conservative platform, with a main priority of prioritizing law enforcement and conducting sweeps of homeless encampments - an expensive and harmful policy that doesn't address the root causes of homelessness. We know what keeps us safe: living in communities where people of every color and background have fair wages, great schools, and affordable healthcare. Instead, Lott wants to label everyone without a home a criminal by making homelessness itself a crime, and telling them that they are "no longer welcome in Auburn" if they don't accept services - all without strengthening the social safety net, addressing affordable housing, or any of the long term efforts that are actually needed to prevent or solve the issue.
The third candidate in this race is Ofa Langi, who recently moved to Auburn in 2020 and serves as a pastor at the local Adventist Church. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Langi played a role in organizing COVID testing and food distribution efforts from the church parking lot.
As of early July, Langi's campaign appears to be inactive. He does not have a campaign website, a presence on social media platforms, an official King County voters guide statement, or any reported funds raised.
Hanan Amer brings a progressive vision and a strong record of community service, she is the best choice for Auburn City Council, Position 7.
Hanan Amer is running for Auburn City Council, Position 7, seeking to replace retiring Council member Bob Baggett. With a background as a chemist at Boeing, Amer has demonstrated a strong commitment to community service by volunteering at various local organizations such as the food bank, libraries, and Girl Scouts of Western Washington. Amer's involvement also extends to assisting with tax preparation through United Way of King County.
Endorsed by progressive former state senator Mona Das and the 47th Legislative District Democrats, Amer is dedicated to empowering and engaging community members. Her progressive platform centers around key issues such as reducing homelessness, addressing climate change, and tackling the drug epidemic.
Amer advocates for the creation of more affordable housing in Auburn to provide safe and permanent shelter for the over 300 people experiencing homelessness in the area. She also supports increased access to mental health services to meet the needs of the community. In her efforts to combat climate change, Amer emphasizes investing in expanded public transportation to reduce carbon emissions and pollution.
Taking a comprehensive approach to the drug epidemic, Amer proposes the establishment of a safe injection site, offering a medically supervised environment for individuals struggling with addiction to seek help. Additionally, she aims to increase assistance for those suffering from opioid addiction, aiming to reduce overdose deaths.
Amer faces two opponents in this race: Brian Lott and Ofa Langi. Lott is running on a conservative platform, with a main priority of prioritizing law enforcement and conducting sweeps of homeless encampments - an expensive and harmful policy that doesn't address the root causes of homelessness. We know what keeps us safe: living in communities where people of every color and background have fair wages, great schools, and affordable healthcare. Instead, Lott wants to label everyone without a home a criminal by making homelessness itself a crime, and telling them that they are "no longer welcome in Auburn" if they don't accept services - all without strengthening the social safety net, addressing affordable housing, or any of the long term efforts that are actually needed to prevent or solve the issue.
The third candidate in this race is Ofa Langi, who recently moved to Auburn in 2020 and serves as a pastor at the local Adventist Church. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Langi played a role in organizing COVID testing and food distribution efforts from the church parking lot.
As of early July, Langi's campaign appears to be inactive. He does not have a campaign website, a presence on social media platforms, an official King County voters guide statement, or any reported funds raised.
Hanan Amer brings a progressive vision and a strong record of community service, she is the best choice for Auburn City Council, Position 7.
Edmonds Mayor
Incumbent Mike Nelson is running for re-election as mayor of Edmonds. Having been initially elected in 2019, Nelson's prior experience includes serving as a city council member from 2015 to 2017. Throughout his tenure, Nelson prioritized the modernization of the Police Department, focusing on improved training and upgraded equipment, and appointed the city's first female police chief.
Nelson's commitment to addressing historical disparities led to the identification of parkland in underserved communities and the creation of a dedicated park acquisition fund. With $1.3 million allocated, the city is competing to acquire more open space in south Edmonds for a new park.
Demonstrating his broader focus on public safety, Nelson has allocated resources to bolster emergency medical services (EMS), established the Human Services Division, and appointed the city's first full-time care coordinator to provide crucial social work services to the community. If re-elected, Nelson's top priorities will be to enhance community strength, safety, inclusivity, equity, and overall prosperity.
In contrast to his opponents, Mayor Nelson's current term continues to achieve significant milestones, such as the recent passage of the 2023 Climate Action Plan, which aims to rejuvenate the city and achieve its carbon neutrality target by 2050. Mike Nelson is the best choice for Mayor of Edmonds.
Incumbent Mike Nelson is running for re-election as mayor of Edmonds. Having been initially elected in 2019, Nelson's prior experience includes serving as a city council member from 2015 to 2017. Throughout his tenure, Nelson prioritized the modernization of the Police Department, focusing on improved training and upgraded equipment, and appointed the city's first female police chief.
Nelson's commitment to addressing historical disparities led to the identification of parkland in underserved communities and the creation of a dedicated park acquisition fund. With $1.3 million allocated, the city is competing to acquire more open space in south Edmonds for a new park.
Demonstrating his broader focus on public safety, Nelson has allocated resources to bolster emergency medical services (EMS), established the Human Services Division, and appointed the city's first full-time care coordinator to provide crucial social work services to the community. If re-elected, Nelson's top priorities will be to enhance community strength, safety, inclusivity, equity, and overall prosperity.
In contrast to his opponents, Mayor Nelson's current term continues to achieve significant milestones, such as the recent passage of the 2023 Climate Action Plan, which aims to rejuvenate the city and achieve its carbon neutrality target by 2050. Mike Nelson is the best choice for Mayor of Edmonds.
Everett City Council
Demi Chatters is a working mom and progressive activist running for Everett City Council, Position 6. She is a longtime Everett resident who has served on the Everett Planning Commission and Snohomish County Human Rights Commission. She also volunteers with organizations that center youth, Black, and LGBTQ+ communities.
Chatters' platform prioritizes housing stability, workers' rights, accessible green spaces, and a public safety approach that relies on social supports over policing. She points to several concrete ways she will work towards her goals, including increasing zoning for affordable middle housing options, requiring fair wage and working condition agreements on city-funded projects, increasing transit routes, creating mini-parks, and expanding the Community Outreach and Enforcement Team that allows social workers to respond to emergencies.
Chatters' leading opponent, conservative Scott Bader, was an obstacle to progress on important city reforms during his time on council. Bader supported inflating the police budget by $6 million while cutting funding for other social support programs that we know actually keep our communities housed and healthy.
The other two candidates, Brian Hennessy and Bill D. Wheeler Jr., do not appear to be running competitive campaigns as of early July. Wheeler Jr. is a conservative Republican who was convicted in 2014 and sentenced to three years in prison for sexually exploiting a minor who worked for his notorious "sexpresso" stand business.
Chatters has earned the support of many progressive leaders and organizations. Because of her community involvement, dedication to racial justice, and concrete plans for progress, she is by far the best choice for Everett City Council, Position 6.
Demi Chatters is a working mom and progressive activist running for Everett City Council, Position 6. She is a longtime Everett resident who has served on the Everett Planning Commission and Snohomish County Human Rights Commission. She also volunteers with organizations that center youth, Black, and LGBTQ+ communities.
Chatters' platform prioritizes housing stability, workers' rights, accessible green spaces, and a public safety approach that relies on social supports over policing. She points to several concrete ways she will work towards her goals, including increasing zoning for affordable middle housing options, requiring fair wage and working condition agreements on city-funded projects, increasing transit routes, creating mini-parks, and expanding the Community Outreach and Enforcement Team that allows social workers to respond to emergencies.
Chatters' leading opponent, conservative Scott Bader, was an obstacle to progress on important city reforms during his time on council. Bader supported inflating the police budget by $6 million while cutting funding for other social support programs that we know actually keep our communities housed and healthy.
The other two candidates, Brian Hennessy and Bill D. Wheeler Jr., do not appear to be running competitive campaigns as of early July. Wheeler Jr. is a conservative Republican who was convicted in 2014 and sentenced to three years in prison for sexually exploiting a minor who worked for his notorious "sexpresso" stand business.
Chatters has earned the support of many progressive leaders and organizations. Because of her community involvement, dedication to racial justice, and concrete plans for progress, she is by far the best choice for Everett City Council, Position 6.
Judith Martinez is challenging Judy Tuohy for the Position 7 seat on the Everett City Council. Martinez has worked for the Snohomish County Public Utility District for over six years to deliver Snohomish residents safe and reliable utilities. She is an IBEW Local 77 union member and an active community leader, volunteering with Everett Public Schools, the local Boys & Girls Club, and the Downtown Everett Association Flower Program. Martinez believes that as an immigrant and working mother with strong community ties, she represents an important voice for the council.
Martinez is running on a progressive and detailed platform to make Everett a more affordable, prosperous, and equitable place to live. If elected, she wants to strengthen the relationship between the council and residents through open communication, engagement, and accessibility. Her top policy priorities include creating more living wage jobs, addressing the housing crisis, and protecting our environment so that Everett is a safe place to live for generations to come.
Martinez is the best choice for Everett City Council, Position 7 because of her impressive list of endorsements and broadly progressive platform.
Judith Martinez is challenging Judy Tuohy for the Position 7 seat on the Everett City Council. Martinez has worked for the Snohomish County Public Utility District for over six years to deliver Snohomish residents safe and reliable utilities. She is an IBEW Local 77 union member and an active community leader, volunteering with Everett Public Schools, the local Boys & Girls Club, and the Downtown Everett Association Flower Program. Martinez believes that as an immigrant and working mother with strong community ties, she represents an important voice for the council.
Martinez is running on a progressive and detailed platform to make Everett a more affordable, prosperous, and equitable place to live. If elected, she wants to strengthen the relationship between the council and residents through open communication, engagement, and accessibility. Her top policy priorities include creating more living wage jobs, addressing the housing crisis, and protecting our environment so that Everett is a safe place to live for generations to come.
Martinez is the best choice for Everett City Council, Position 7 because of her impressive list of endorsements and broadly progressive platform.
Kent City Council
John Boyd is running for Kent City Council, Position 3. Boyd is a retired quality assurance inspector for Boeing and a Navy veteran. He has lived in Kent for 27 years with his family.
Boyd's campaign priorities include developing a comprehensive plan to address homelessness that includes wrap-around services, sustainable development, improving public safety, and investing in the community. He highlights his certification in chemical dependency and experience as a volunteer at Therapeutic Health Services as important for addressing some of the root causes of the substance abuse epidemic. Boyd also supports increasing access to mental health services and job training programs.
The other candidates in this race range from moderate to conservative. Boyd as the best choice for Kent City Council, Position 3.
John Boyd is running for Kent City Council, Position 3. Boyd is a retired quality assurance inspector for Boeing and a Navy veteran. He has lived in Kent for 27 years with his family.
Boyd's campaign priorities include developing a comprehensive plan to address homelessness that includes wrap-around services, sustainable development, improving public safety, and investing in the community. He highlights his certification in chemical dependency and experience as a volunteer at Therapeutic Health Services as important for addressing some of the root causes of the substance abuse epidemic. Boyd also supports increasing access to mental health services and job training programs.
The other candidates in this race range from moderate to conservative. Boyd as the best choice for Kent City Council, Position 3.
Olympia Mayor
Dontae Derrell Payne is a US Army veteran and Olympia City Council member running for Mayor of Olympia. He has national experience as a staffer in the US House and currently works as a policy advisor for civil rights and racial justice in the office of the governor. He became the first Black man to serve on the Olympia City Council when he was elected in 2021.
Payne was first motivated to run for office because of the lack of representation of Black and brown people in city government. He says his experience as a gay, Black, former military member will bring the voice of marginalized people to the table. In his bid for mayor, his key concerns are housing affordability, reimagining public safety, a resilient economy, social equity and diverse representation, and climate mitigation.
In recent years, Payne has supported renters' rights legislation that capped move-in fees and required landlords to give more advanced notice of rent increases. He also advocated for community-based health care and sidewalk accessibility for people with disabilities. During his time, the city council additionally accepted the conclusions of the "Reimagining Public Safety" workgroup — a community-led effort to address the root causes of crime and make public safety truly equitable.
Payne has a nuanced opinion on defunding the police. Although he had a personal negative experience with a patrol officer and wants to get systemic racism out of policing, he sees the discussion of the budget as "a convenient distraction from white supremacy" when there is still a need for officers. He supports additional funding for body cameras, social services, and the city's crisis response unit.
Payne's challengers are Desiree Chantal Toliver and David Ross. Toliver is an aspiring nurse and self-identified Democratic Socialist who recently graduated with her associate's degree from Puget Sound Community College. She does not have any political experience and offers few specifics on her website as of mid-July. Ross is a typically conservative candidate whose platform is based on increasing policing and ineffective and harmful encampment sweeps.
Because of his extensive experience, proven track record, and dedication to racial justice, Payne is the best choice in this race.
Dontae Derrell Payne is a US Army veteran and Olympia City Council member running for Mayor of Olympia. He has national experience as a staffer in the US House and currently works as a policy advisor for civil rights and racial justice in the office of the governor. He became the first Black man to serve on the Olympia City Council when he was elected in 2021.
Payne was first motivated to run for office because of the lack of representation of Black and brown people in city government. He says his experience as a gay, Black, former military member will bring the voice of marginalized people to the table. In his bid for mayor, his key concerns are housing affordability, reimagining public safety, a resilient economy, social equity and diverse representation, and climate mitigation.
In recent years, Payne has supported renters' rights legislation that capped move-in fees and required landlords to give more advanced notice of rent increases. He also advocated for community-based health care and sidewalk accessibility for people with disabilities. During his time, the city council additionally accepted the conclusions of the "Reimagining Public Safety" workgroup — a community-led effort to address the root causes of crime and make public safety truly equitable.
Payne has a nuanced opinion on defunding the police. Although he had a personal negative experience with a patrol officer and wants to get systemic racism out of policing, he sees the discussion of the budget as "a convenient distraction from white supremacy" when there is still a need for officers. He supports additional funding for body cameras, social services, and the city's crisis response unit.
Payne's challengers are Desiree Chantal Toliver and David Ross. Toliver is an aspiring nurse and self-identified Democratic Socialist who recently graduated with her associate's degree from Puget Sound Community College. She does not have any political experience and offers few specifics on her website as of mid-July. Ross is a typically conservative candidate whose platform is based on increasing policing and ineffective and harmful encampment sweeps.
Because of his extensive experience, proven track record, and dedication to racial justice, Payne is the best choice in this race.
Renton City Council
Kim-Khanh Van is running for re-election to Renton City Council, Position 7, where she has served since 2020. After her family escaped Vietnam as refugees and settled in King County, she went on to earn her law degree and become an attorney. Van is now an active member of the community - she volunteers with groups that serve veterans, protect the local environment, and provide legal aid to immigrants. She also is a board member of the Kennydale PTA, where her child attends school, and is the co-founder of AAPI Against Hate.
On the council, Van allocated pandemic funding to homeownership programs, human services, and small businesses. She advocated for testing for toxic "forever chemicals" in our water systems and denounced the construction of an asphalt plant on the Cedar River. She was also 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. However, unlike her opponent Michael Westgaard, she has not publicly endorsed the Raise the Wage Renton ballot measure to increase the minimum wage.
Van cares about police accountability and advocated for $1 million to fund body cameras and mental health navigators. However, she also supported hiring and funding additional police to patrol downtown. Notably, she was not one of the three city council members who signed a letter demanding a less punitive approach to criminal justice.
Van has been an outspoken advocate for immigrants and communities of color and has earned impressive support from our partners in this race.
Kim-Khanh Van is running for re-election to Renton City Council, Position 7, where she has served since 2020. After her family escaped Vietnam as refugees and settled in King County, she went on to earn her law degree and become an attorney. Van is now an active member of the community - she volunteers with groups that serve veterans, protect the local environment, and provide legal aid to immigrants. She also is a board member of the Kennydale PTA, where her child attends school, and is the co-founder of AAPI Against Hate.
On the council, Van allocated pandemic funding to homeownership programs, human services, and small businesses. She advocated for testing for toxic "forever chemicals" in our water systems and denounced the construction of an asphalt plant on the Cedar River. She was also 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. However, unlike her opponent Michael Westgaard, she has not publicly endorsed the Raise the Wage Renton ballot measure to increase the minimum wage.
Van cares about police accountability and advocated for $1 million to fund body cameras and mental health navigators. However, she also supported hiring and funding additional police to patrol downtown. Notably, she was not one of the three city council members who signed a letter demanding a less punitive approach to criminal justice.
Van has been an outspoken advocate for immigrants and communities of color and has earned impressive support from our partners in this race.
City of Seattle, District #1
Maren Costa is the leading progressive candidate running to replace Lisa Herbold on the Seattle City Council from District 1. A former Amazon principal designer, Costa advocated for a climate action plan at Amazon that eventually became their official Climate Pledge. In 2020, Costa was illegally fired from the company after sending out an email to rally her coworkers around poor warehouse conditions for workers. With the backing of an open letter from nine U.S. senators, including Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders, Costa won her case against Amazon and continued advocating for workers and her community.
Costa is now running to bring her tenacity and experience in management to city hall. In our interview with Costa, she spoke about the importance of raising more money to maintain services as the city faces a $100 million budget shortfall. Her proposals, including a vacancy tax, were squarely aimed at making the wealthiest pay what they owe to our communities.
Costa wants to look out for working people and make Seattle more livable for all. She spoke to a desire to improve affordability by allowing more mixed-use developments and “four floors and corner stores” in neighborhoods. She believes well-designed, denser neighborhoods are critical as the state faces a severe housing shortage, making living here hard for teachers, nurses, and other working professionals. On homelessness, Costa wants the city to take a housing-first approach, working on getting people into secure housing instead of criminalizing them for sleeping outside. On public safety, Costa offers a vision that funds gun violence prevention, community policing, and alternative response models.
Costa's experience managing million-dollar budgets and successfully advocating for corporate climate action makes her stand out as a progressive among the top candidates in the district. That experience plus an impressive set of endorsements make her the best choice for Seattle City Council in District 1.
Maren Costa is the leading progressive candidate running to replace Lisa Herbold on the Seattle City Council from District 1. A former Amazon principal designer, Costa advocated for a climate action plan at Amazon that eventually became their official Climate Pledge. In 2020, Costa was illegally fired from the company after sending out an email to rally her coworkers around poor warehouse conditions for workers. With the backing of an open letter from nine U.S. senators, including Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders, Costa won her case against Amazon and continued advocating for workers and her community.
Costa is now running to bring her tenacity and experience in management to city hall. In our interview with Costa, she spoke about the importance of raising more money to maintain services as the city faces a $100 million budget shortfall. Her proposals, including a vacancy tax, were squarely aimed at making the wealthiest pay what they owe to our communities.
Costa wants to look out for working people and make Seattle more livable for all. She spoke to a desire to improve affordability by allowing more mixed-use developments and “four floors and corner stores” in neighborhoods. She believes well-designed, denser neighborhoods are critical as the state faces a severe housing shortage, making living here hard for teachers, nurses, and other working professionals. On homelessness, Costa wants the city to take a housing-first approach, working on getting people into secure housing instead of criminalizing them for sleeping outside. On public safety, Costa offers a vision that funds gun violence prevention, community policing, and alternative response models.
Costa's experience managing million-dollar budgets and successfully advocating for corporate climate action makes her stand out as a progressive among the top candidates in the district. That experience plus an impressive set of endorsements make her the best choice for Seattle City Council in District 1.
City of Seattle, District #2
Community organizer and incumbent Councilmember Tammy Morales is running for her second term serving District 2 on the Seattle City Council. Morales was first elected in 2019 and has been a vocal progressive advocate for this diverse district. Previously, she worked with the Rainier Beach Action Coalition to advocate for affordable housing, food security, and other pressing community needs. Beyond the city council, Morales has also served as a legislative director and city budget analyst.
In her current role, Morales has pushed for safe and walkable streets, corporate accountability, social and other affordable housing measures, and climate crisis emergency responses such as extreme heat and smoke shelters. She is running to build on her previous term to advocate for Green New Deal funding and environmental protections that will keep Seattle a healthy place to live for generations to come. If re-elected, Morales will continue to champion affordable housing policies, neighborhood revitalization investments, and tenant rights. She has received an extensive and diverse list of endorsements in this race including from fellow city council members and other local progressives.
Morales has the practical track record and the progressive vision necessary to advocate for District 2 on the Seattle City Council. She has earned your vote for re-election.
Community organizer and incumbent Councilmember Tammy Morales is running for her second term serving District 2 on the Seattle City Council. Morales was first elected in 2019 and has been a vocal progressive advocate for this diverse district. Previously, she worked with the Rainier Beach Action Coalition to advocate for affordable housing, food security, and other pressing community needs. Beyond the city council, Morales has also served as a legislative director and city budget analyst.
In her current role, Morales has pushed for safe and walkable streets, corporate accountability, social and other affordable housing measures, and climate crisis emergency responses such as extreme heat and smoke shelters. She is running to build on her previous term to advocate for Green New Deal funding and environmental protections that will keep Seattle a healthy place to live for generations to come. If re-elected, Morales will continue to champion affordable housing policies, neighborhood revitalization investments, and tenant rights. She has received an extensive and diverse list of endorsements in this race including from fellow city council members and other local progressives.
Morales has the practical track record and the progressive vision necessary to advocate for District 2 on the Seattle City Council. She has earned your vote for re-election.
City of Seattle, District #3
Alex Hudson is running to strengthen the fundamentals of city life through improved transit and housing. Since 2018, she has served as Executive Director of the Transportation Choices Coalition, where she successfully advocated for $5 billion in investments in transportation and transit in the 2022 state legislative session, including ushering in free rides for all youth in Washington. Hudson currently serves on Puget Sound Regional Council Transportation Policy Board and the board of the Freeway Park Association and has also led the First Hill Improvement Association.
In our interview with Hudson, she offered her perspective as a renter and presented a detailed vision for the city that she hopes would alleviate the housing crisis. In comparison to Hollingsworth, Hudson was very specific in our interview about policies that she believes will affect housing across the entire city, not just the district. As a board member of Bellwether Housing, the largest affordable housing provider in King County, Hudson spoke to how they needed two years to get through permitting, licensing, and review to build housing - not fast enough, in her opinion. Hudson opposes the urban village model and exclusionary zoning, two policies that limit housing and stifle affordable and middle housing, like duplexes, in wealthier neighborhoods. She supports a municipal capital gains tax to invest more in affordable housing and implement the social housing authority to kickstart social, publicly-owned housing in Seattle.
On community safety and policing, Hudson believes that after one of the greatest civil rights protests of our time, the city has dropped the ball on how to continue to make our communities safe for all. Like Hollingsworth, Hudson sees value in covering some of the basics - making sure street lights work and parks are full of programs and opportunities. In addition, she wants to ensure that armed officers are showing up only on appropriate calls and that fare enforcement is restricted so that people don't end up in the criminal legal system over a bus fare. Hudson also wants to see further investment in a functioning 911 alternative responder. It is worth noting here that both Hudson and Hollingsworth answered 'maybe' to The Seattle Times' questionnaire about conducting sweeps and raising the JumpStart tax on big corporations to cover Seattle's budget shortfall of about $100 million.
Hudson would be an excellent choice for voters seeking a highly knowledgeable and experienced leader in transportation and housing issues.
Alex Hudson is running to strengthen the fundamentals of city life through improved transit and housing. Since 2018, she has served as Executive Director of the Transportation Choices Coalition, where she successfully advocated for $5 billion in investments in transportation and transit in the 2022 state legislative session, including ushering in free rides for all youth in Washington. Hudson currently serves on Puget Sound Regional Council Transportation Policy Board and the board of the Freeway Park Association and has also led the First Hill Improvement Association.
In our interview with Hudson, she offered her perspective as a renter and presented a detailed vision for the city that she hopes would alleviate the housing crisis. In comparison to Hollingsworth, Hudson was very specific in our interview about policies that she believes will affect housing across the entire city, not just the district. As a board member of Bellwether Housing, the largest affordable housing provider in King County, Hudson spoke to how they needed two years to get through permitting, licensing, and review to build housing - not fast enough, in her opinion. Hudson opposes the urban village model and exclusionary zoning, two policies that limit housing and stifle affordable and middle housing, like duplexes, in wealthier neighborhoods. She supports a municipal capital gains tax to invest more in affordable housing and implement the social housing authority to kickstart social, publicly-owned housing in Seattle.
On community safety and policing, Hudson believes that after one of the greatest civil rights protests of our time, the city has dropped the ball on how to continue to make our communities safe for all. Like Hollingsworth, Hudson sees value in covering some of the basics - making sure street lights work and parks are full of programs and opportunities. In addition, she wants to ensure that armed officers are showing up only on appropriate calls and that fare enforcement is restricted so that people don't end up in the criminal legal system over a bus fare. Hudson also wants to see further investment in a functioning 911 alternative responder. It is worth noting here that both Hudson and Hollingsworth answered 'maybe' to The Seattle Times' questionnaire about conducting sweeps and raising the JumpStart tax on big corporations to cover Seattle's budget shortfall of about $100 million.
Hudson would be an excellent choice for voters seeking a highly knowledgeable and experienced leader in transportation and housing issues.
City of Seattle, District #4
Ron Davis is running for Seattle City Council, District 4 as an outspoken progressive advocate for affordable housing, community safety, and more. Davis served on the Roosevelt Neighborhood Association and has been a board member at Futurewise, which advocates for sustainability and livable communities. In our interview with Davis, he emphasized that he's running to be the opposite of retiring incumbent council member Alex Pedersen, who stood in the way of many progressive policies, including efforts to build more "missing middle" housing.
Davis would focus on housing supply, subsidizing housing so that everyone has more affordable access, and increasing stability for renters. Many policies are on the table for Davis to achieve this, including prohibiting rent price gouging, funding social housing, expanding mid-rise housing, ensuring the "right to return" for people displaced by developers, and offering square footage and height bonuses. Davis is also rigorously pro-science when it comes to treating homelessness as a housing problem. He points out that many challenging and displacing life events like domestic abuse, addiction, and job loss are less catastrophic when people can afford rent and stay off the streets. Aside from the many housing policies above, Davis would push to build 3,500 permanent supportive housing units.
Davis is one of the few candidates - not just in the district, but citywide - to acknowledge that even Seattle's own police don't think they can hire 400 more officers during a nationwide shortage. Rather than lowering standards on hires and pouring more money into bonuses, he wants to see aggressive expansion into alternatives to policing for people in crisis. Other top priorities for Davis are worker's rights, including subsidized childcare, closing minimum wage loopholes, and more.
Vote for Ron Davis for progressive change on the Seattle City Council from District 4.
Ron Davis is running for Seattle City Council, District 4 as an outspoken progressive advocate for affordable housing, community safety, and more. Davis served on the Roosevelt Neighborhood Association and has been a board member at Futurewise, which advocates for sustainability and livable communities. In our interview with Davis, he emphasized that he's running to be the opposite of retiring incumbent council member Alex Pedersen, who stood in the way of many progressive policies, including efforts to build more "missing middle" housing.
Davis would focus on housing supply, subsidizing housing so that everyone has more affordable access, and increasing stability for renters. Many policies are on the table for Davis to achieve this, including prohibiting rent price gouging, funding social housing, expanding mid-rise housing, ensuring the "right to return" for people displaced by developers, and offering square footage and height bonuses. Davis is also rigorously pro-science when it comes to treating homelessness as a housing problem. He points out that many challenging and displacing life events like domestic abuse, addiction, and job loss are less catastrophic when people can afford rent and stay off the streets. Aside from the many housing policies above, Davis would push to build 3,500 permanent supportive housing units.
Davis is one of the few candidates - not just in the district, but citywide - to acknowledge that even Seattle's own police don't think they can hire 400 more officers during a nationwide shortage. Rather than lowering standards on hires and pouring more money into bonuses, he wants to see aggressive expansion into alternatives to policing for people in crisis. Other top priorities for Davis are worker's rights, including subsidized childcare, closing minimum wage loopholes, and more.
Vote for Ron Davis for progressive change on the Seattle City Council from District 4.
City of Seattle, District #5
Nilu Jenks is a community advocate entering the crowded race to represent District 5 on Seattle's City Council. Jenks is a board member of Roosevelt Alumni for Racial Equity, where she wrote the racial equity curriculum for Roosevelt High's after-school program. She also serves as the advocacy chair on John Rogers Elementary's PTA and volunteered to coach middle schoolers who were learning English. As a daughter of Iranian immigrants who were undocumented during her childhood, Jenks is motivated to improve life for immigrant families in a sanctuary city like Seattle.
Jenks' main area of advocacy has been gun safety. After the Parkland school shooting, she helped organize a gun buyback program and education campaign for gun owners in California, where she lived at the time.
When it comes to public safety more broadly, Jenks' vision includes safety for everyone - from kids walking and biking to school, to people who live in tents and cars. She supports funding programs like LEAD and CoLEAD that provide behavioral health and community support as an alternative to police. While she does not support the mayor's proposed goal of reaching 1,400 officers, she said in her interview that she would support 1,200. She reportedly said it was a mistake for the previous council to commit to defunding police by 50%.
When it comes to housing, Jenks thinks the current mandatory affordable housing model does not go far enough, as most landlords can choose to pay a fee instead of creating affordable units. Jenks wants to expand mandatory affordable housing into more neighborhoods and increase zoning and incentives for multi-family homes, which will provide more options for lower and mid-income families. She knocked on doors for the social housing initiative and says she is excited to hear about ideas for how to fund it with progressive revenue. She also mentioned racial justice when it comes to housing - proposing support to help people of color buy homes or afford childcare as a form of reparations.
Jenks is also passionate about protecting our climate. She wants to bring carbon-free electrification, higher standards for green buildings, and expanded public transit to our neighborhoods. Many of the changes in her climate plan will also make our neighborhoods more walkable, and give residents in Lake City and Bitter Lake an easier commute to the light rail.
Although some of the other candidates have slightly more ambitious plans for housing and police reform, Jenks has a strong platform and has earned the most progressive endorsements in this race. We recommend Nilu Jenks for Seattle City Council from District 5.
Nilu Jenks is a community advocate entering the crowded race to represent District 5 on Seattle's City Council. Jenks is a board member of Roosevelt Alumni for Racial Equity, where she wrote the racial equity curriculum for Roosevelt High's after-school program. She also serves as the advocacy chair on John Rogers Elementary's PTA and volunteered to coach middle schoolers who were learning English. As a daughter of Iranian immigrants who were undocumented during her childhood, Jenks is motivated to improve life for immigrant families in a sanctuary city like Seattle.
Jenks' main area of advocacy has been gun safety. After the Parkland school shooting, she helped organize a gun buyback program and education campaign for gun owners in California, where she lived at the time.
When it comes to public safety more broadly, Jenks' vision includes safety for everyone - from kids walking and biking to school, to people who live in tents and cars. She supports funding programs like LEAD and CoLEAD that provide behavioral health and community support as an alternative to police. While she does not support the mayor's proposed goal of reaching 1,400 officers, she said in her interview that she would support 1,200. She reportedly said it was a mistake for the previous council to commit to defunding police by 50%.
When it comes to housing, Jenks thinks the current mandatory affordable housing model does not go far enough, as most landlords can choose to pay a fee instead of creating affordable units. Jenks wants to expand mandatory affordable housing into more neighborhoods and increase zoning and incentives for multi-family homes, which will provide more options for lower and mid-income families. She knocked on doors for the social housing initiative and says she is excited to hear about ideas for how to fund it with progressive revenue. She also mentioned racial justice when it comes to housing - proposing support to help people of color buy homes or afford childcare as a form of reparations.
Jenks is also passionate about protecting our climate. She wants to bring carbon-free electrification, higher standards for green buildings, and expanded public transit to our neighborhoods. Many of the changes in her climate plan will also make our neighborhoods more walkable, and give residents in Lake City and Bitter Lake an easier commute to the light rail.
Although some of the other candidates have slightly more ambitious plans for housing and police reform, Jenks has a strong platform and has earned the most progressive endorsements in this race. We recommend Nilu Jenks for Seattle City Council from District 5.
City of Seattle, District #6
Incumbent Dan Strauss is seeking re-election to the District 6 seat on the Seattle City Council. Strauss was first elected in 2019, and he previously served as a senior policy advisor to Councilmember Sally Bagshaw and worked for the Alliance for Gun Responsibility. Now, he is running for a second term to continue bringing community-focused leadership to District 6.
On the council, Strauss has prioritized creating more affordable housing options and strengthening tenant rights. With investments of $250 million in 2022, permanent supportive housing was purchased in Green Lake, Ballard, and Greenwood. As the land use chair, he also points to how he has cleared encampments without sweeps by connecting people to services. Unfortunately, Strauss recently voted in favor of allowing Republican City Attorney Ann Davison to prosecute people for drug use. In addition, Strauss disappointed many advocates by pushing for larger police budgets, which would increase the presence of militarized police in our communities instead of making us safer.
If re-elected, Strauss will continue to develop Ballard Commons Park as a community green space, support the local small business economy, and ensure corporations and the wealthy pay what they owe. While he has not been the progressive leader some had hoped for, all of his viable opponents would be a step backward for the district and the city overall. Strauss has earned the majority of endorsements from progressive leaders and organizations and is the clear choice for city council from District 6.
Incumbent Dan Strauss is seeking re-election to the District 6 seat on the Seattle City Council. Strauss was first elected in 2019, and he previously served as a senior policy advisor to Councilmember Sally Bagshaw and worked for the Alliance for Gun Responsibility. Now, he is running for a second term to continue bringing community-focused leadership to District 6.
On the council, Strauss has prioritized creating more affordable housing options and strengthening tenant rights. With investments of $250 million in 2022, permanent supportive housing was purchased in Green Lake, Ballard, and Greenwood. As the land use chair, he also points to how he has cleared encampments without sweeps by connecting people to services. Unfortunately, Strauss recently voted in favor of allowing Republican City Attorney Ann Davison to prosecute people for drug use. In addition, Strauss disappointed many advocates by pushing for larger police budgets, which would increase the presence of militarized police in our communities instead of making us safer.
If re-elected, Strauss will continue to develop Ballard Commons Park as a community green space, support the local small business economy, and ensure corporations and the wealthy pay what they owe. While he has not been the progressive leader some had hoped for, all of his viable opponents would be a step backward for the district and the city overall. Strauss has earned the majority of endorsements from progressive leaders and organizations and is the clear choice for city council from District 6.
City of Seattle, District #7
Councilmember Andrew Lewis is running for re-election to the Seattle City Council from District 7. Lewis was first elected to the seat in 2019 and previously served as an assistant city attorney, where he worked on the Seattle Human Rights Commission. He also serves as the president of the Seattle Metropolitan Park District where he has worked to create jobs, ensure the cleanliness of public green space, and advance environmental goals for the city.
In his first term on the council, Lewis prioritized funding affordable housing programs, ensuring community safety, and achieving greater climate protections to make Seattle a healthier place for all of us. He secured funding to fully renovate the Queen Anne Community Center and expanded the JustCARE program, which offers outreach, shelter, and wrap-around services to Seattleites without housing. In this race, he is running on a progressive platform to expand crisis support services, invest in social and transitional housing options, and improve the city’s public transit infrastructure to reduce both traffic and greenhouse gas emissions.
Lewis has earned an impressive list of endorsements from elected officials and key community leaders and is the most progressive choice in this race. Vote Andrew Lewis for Seattle City Council from District 7.
Councilmember Andrew Lewis is running for re-election to the Seattle City Council from District 7. Lewis was first elected to the seat in 2019 and previously served as an assistant city attorney, where he worked on the Seattle Human Rights Commission. He also serves as the president of the Seattle Metropolitan Park District where he has worked to create jobs, ensure the cleanliness of public green space, and advance environmental goals for the city.
In his first term on the council, Lewis prioritized funding affordable housing programs, ensuring community safety, and achieving greater climate protections to make Seattle a healthier place for all of us. He secured funding to fully renovate the Queen Anne Community Center and expanded the JustCARE program, which offers outreach, shelter, and wrap-around services to Seattleites without housing. In this race, he is running on a progressive platform to expand crisis support services, invest in social and transitional housing options, and improve the city’s public transit infrastructure to reduce both traffic and greenhouse gas emissions.
Lewis has earned an impressive list of endorsements from elected officials and key community leaders and is the most progressive choice in this race. Vote Andrew Lewis for Seattle City Council from District 7.
Tacoma City Council
Deputy Mayor Kristina Walker is running for re-election for At-Large Position 8 on the Tacoma City Council. Prior to serving on the city council, Walker spent nine years as the executive director of Downtown on the Go, a Tacoma-based transportation advocacy organization that aims to encourage the use of biking, walking, and transit.
During her first term in office, Walker has prioritized addressing racial disparities, expanding shelter options, and investing more in affordable housing. She supported the Home in Tacoma initiative to promote a greater range of housing options in more neighborhoods and reduce the cost of housing. She has also used her experience in transportation advocacy to improve access and keep our streets safe, including supporting legislation to lower the speed limit to 20 mph in residential areas. Unfortunately, Walker was part of a 6-3 majority on the city council that banned people without a home from sleeping outside near services.
If re-elected, Walker would prioritize creating jobs, improving transportation access, and preserving local green spaces for all Tacoma residents. In addition, she is committed to reducing gun violence and improving public safety
Walker faces challenges this year from Todd Briske and Hunter Henderson. Briske is a web developer who ran for state legislature last year against Speaker Laurie Jinkins as part of the Forward Party. He does not appear to have much community or political leadership experience. He states that he would focus on paving potholes, hiring more police officers, and building more shelter beds, though he doesn't say how he would accomplish this.
Henderson works at the Washington State Department of Transportation. Previously, he served as an AmeriCorps member with Pierce County Parks and Recreation distributing trees across the region. Henderson's campaign priorities include updating Tacoma's municipal codes to be more equitable and expanding education opportunities for people who want to learn trades.
Walker's track record on the council and strong support from our Progressive Voters Guide partners makes her the clear choice in this race.
Deputy Mayor Kristina Walker is running for re-election for At-Large Position 8 on the Tacoma City Council. Prior to serving on the city council, Walker spent nine years as the executive director of Downtown on the Go, a Tacoma-based transportation advocacy organization that aims to encourage the use of biking, walking, and transit.
During her first term in office, Walker has prioritized addressing racial disparities, expanding shelter options, and investing more in affordable housing. She supported the Home in Tacoma initiative to promote a greater range of housing options in more neighborhoods and reduce the cost of housing. She has also used her experience in transportation advocacy to improve access and keep our streets safe, including supporting legislation to lower the speed limit to 20 mph in residential areas. Unfortunately, Walker was part of a 6-3 majority on the city council that banned people without a home from sleeping outside near services.
If re-elected, Walker would prioritize creating jobs, improving transportation access, and preserving local green spaces for all Tacoma residents. In addition, she is committed to reducing gun violence and improving public safety
Walker faces challenges this year from Todd Briske and Hunter Henderson. Briske is a web developer who ran for state legislature last year against Speaker Laurie Jinkins as part of the Forward Party. He does not appear to have much community or political leadership experience. He states that he would focus on paving potholes, hiring more police officers, and building more shelter beds, though he doesn't say how he would accomplish this.
Henderson works at the Washington State Department of Transportation. Previously, he served as an AmeriCorps member with Pierce County Parks and Recreation distributing trees across the region. Henderson's campaign priorities include updating Tacoma's municipal codes to be more equitable and expanding education opportunities for people who want to learn trades.
Walker's track record on the council and strong support from our Progressive Voters Guide partners makes her the clear choice in this race.
City of Tacoma, District #3
Malando Reedemer is a contract director with UFCW 3000 who is running for Tacoma City Council in District 3 to replace Councilmember Keith Blocker, who is retiring. He is also active in the community, serving as an associate minister at Shiloh Baptist Church and on the board of the Tacoma NAACP. Previously, he worked with SEIU Healthcare 1199 supporting workers and organizing on contract campaigns.
Redeemer is running for city council to put his labor organizing experience to work making Tacoma a place where workers can earn a living wage and afford a home. If elected, he would work to reduce poverty and homelessness by helping ensure everyone's needs through better access to resources and services, though he offers few details about how he would achieve this. Nevertheless, it would be a welcome change in perspective from some on the council who have pushed to criminalize homelessness in Tacoma. Reedemer also wants to be a mentor to the next generation of leaders in District 3 in the same way Mayors Victoria Woodards and Harold Moss supported him. However, Redeemer generated some controversy recently when he was openly critical of the popular incumbent, Keith Blocker, in a candidate forum held by the Tacoma DSA.
Malando's commitment to working people and experience in organized labor has earned him several endorsements from our progressive partner organizations.
Malando Reedemer is a contract director with UFCW 3000 who is running for Tacoma City Council in District 3 to replace Councilmember Keith Blocker, who is retiring. He is also active in the community, serving as an associate minister at Shiloh Baptist Church and on the board of the Tacoma NAACP. Previously, he worked with SEIU Healthcare 1199 supporting workers and organizing on contract campaigns.
Redeemer is running for city council to put his labor organizing experience to work making Tacoma a place where workers can earn a living wage and afford a home. If elected, he would work to reduce poverty and homelessness by helping ensure everyone's needs through better access to resources and services, though he offers few details about how he would achieve this. Nevertheless, it would be a welcome change in perspective from some on the council who have pushed to criminalize homelessness in Tacoma. Reedemer also wants to be a mentor to the next generation of leaders in District 3 in the same way Mayors Victoria Woodards and Harold Moss supported him. However, Redeemer generated some controversy recently when he was openly critical of the popular incumbent, Keith Blocker, in a candidate forum held by the Tacoma DSA.
Malando's commitment to working people and experience in organized labor has earned him several endorsements from our progressive partner organizations.