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Kristina Michele Martens

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Bellingham City Councilmember Kristina Michele Martens is now running for mayor of Bellingham. Prior to running for office, Martens was the co-founder of the Whatcom Racial Equity Commission, the host of local radio and television shows, and the creator of the popular "Bellingham Idol" singing competition. In 2021, she became the first Black member in the history of the Bellingham City Council.  

During her year and a half on the council, Martens has been a strong advocate for housing and promoting equity in city policies. She advocated for a safe parking location for people experiencing homelessness. In addition, she has worked with renters' groups to raise awareness about landlords who are not maintaining safe units. Martens was one of only two members of the council to oppose the mayor's recent proposal to make public drug use a misdemeanor subject to arrest.  

Martens is running for mayor to elevate many of the same issues she has advocated for as a council member. She recently described herself as a "lone dissenting voice" on the Bellingham City Council and expressed frustration at being unable to do more in her current role. She wants to use the mayor's office to push for greater transparency from city staff and do more for low-income renters.  

Martens is a good choice if you're looking for a very progressive candidate who would shake up the status quo within city government.

Bellingham City Councilmember Kristina Michele Martens is now running for mayor of Bellingham. Prior to running for office, Martens was the co-founder of the Whatcom Racial Equity Commission, the host of local radio and television shows, and the creator of the popular "Bellingham Idol" singing competition. In 2021, she became the first Black member in the history of the Bellingham City Council.  

During her year and a half on the council, Martens has been a strong advocate for housing and promoting equity in city policies. She advocated for a safe parking location for people experiencing homelessness. In addition, she has worked with renters' groups to raise awareness about landlords who are not maintaining safe units. Martens was one of only two members of the council to oppose the mayor's recent proposal to make public drug use a misdemeanor subject to arrest.  

Martens is running for mayor to elevate many of the same issues she has advocated for as a council member. She recently described herself as a "lone dissenting voice" on the Bellingham City Council and expressed frustration at being unable to do more in her current role. She wants to use the mayor's office to push for greater transparency from city staff and do more for low-income renters.  

Martens is a good choice if you're looking for a very progressive candidate who would shake up the status quo within city government.

Endorsed By: UFCW 3000 , The Riveters Collective, Alliance for Gun Responsibility

City of Bellingham

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Election Day August 1, 2023
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Whatcom County

Whatcom County Executive

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Non-Partisan

Satpal Sidhu

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Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu is running for re-election this year. He is a small business owner, the former dean of Bellingham Technical College, and he served on the Whatcom County Council for four years prior to running for county executive in 2019. 

Sidhu led Whatcom County through a particularly tumultuous period. Most of his first term was focused on supporting the community through the pandemic - which began just two months after he took office - and responding to the historic Nooksack River flood. During his first term, the Whatcom County Council also unanimously banned any expansion of fossil fuel facilities at Cherry Point after many years of debate and public protest. He was also supportive of the county's Climate Action Plan and reducing the use of natural gas in local buildings. Sidhu's track record on climate and conservation issues earned him the sole endorsement of Washington Climate Action in this race. 

The other defining issue of Sidhu's term has been the ongoing fight about a new Whatcom County Jail. He has sometimes been at odds with progressive activists over how to handle this facility. In June, Sidhu proposed a 0.2 percent sales tax increase to build a new jail with 440 beds that would cost at least $137 million. Some local progressive organizations and elected officials expressed opposition to "building a new, bigger jail" and suggested using some of the funding for social services and housing. If he's re-elected, we hope Sidhu will adopt a more progressive stance on the jail facility and other issues involving the criminal legal system. 

Sidhu also generated some criticism for his handling of The Healthy Children's Fund, which voters narrowly approved last November. Shortly after the election, he recommended reducing the tax rate written in the ballot measure because he expected it would raise more money than originally estimated. In March, he recommended redirecting $4.5 million from the levy to other purposes. The Whatcom County Council disagreed, voting 6-1 to maintain the funding for building and renovating child care facilities.

Sidhu is running for a second term on a platform of housing affordability, salmon recovery, and flood resiliency. As he has throughout his term, Sidhu stresses the importance of finding common ground during a time of divisiveness in our local and national politics. He wants to work together with the county council to update zoning laws to allow more housing density in certain places while maintaining rural and agricultural land. He also touts his ongoing efforts to secure state and federal funding to build a "Skill Center" at Meridian High School to expand family-wage job opportunities in skilled trades. 

Sidhu has earned many endorsements from local and state progressive leaders in this crowded race. If re-elected, he would be one of the few people of color in county leadership positions in Washington state. We lean toward Satpal Sidhu for Whatcom County Executive.

Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu is running for re-election this year. He is a small business owner, the former dean of Bellingham Technical College, and he served on the Whatcom County Council for four years prior to running for county executive in 2019. 

Sidhu led Whatcom County through a particularly tumultuous period. Most of his first term was focused on supporting the community through the pandemic - which began just two months after he took office - and responding to the historic Nooksack River flood. During his first term, the Whatcom County Council also unanimously banned any expansion of fossil fuel facilities at Cherry Point after many years of debate and public protest. He was also supportive of the county's Climate Action Plan and reducing the use of natural gas in local buildings. Sidhu's track record on climate and conservation issues earned him the sole endorsement of Washington Climate Action in this race. 

The other defining issue of Sidhu's term has been the ongoing fight about a new Whatcom County Jail. He has sometimes been at odds with progressive activists over how to handle this facility. In June, Sidhu proposed a 0.2 percent sales tax increase to build a new jail with 440 beds that would cost at least $137 million. Some local progressive organizations and elected officials expressed opposition to "building a new, bigger jail" and suggested using some of the funding for social services and housing. If he's re-elected, we hope Sidhu will adopt a more progressive stance on the jail facility and other issues involving the criminal legal system. 

Sidhu also generated some criticism for his handling of The Healthy Children's Fund, which voters narrowly approved last November. Shortly after the election, he recommended reducing the tax rate written in the ballot measure because he expected it would raise more money than originally estimated. In March, he recommended redirecting $4.5 million from the levy to other purposes. The Whatcom County Council disagreed, voting 6-1 to maintain the funding for building and renovating child care facilities.

Sidhu is running for a second term on a platform of housing affordability, salmon recovery, and flood resiliency. As he has throughout his term, Sidhu stresses the importance of finding common ground during a time of divisiveness in our local and national politics. He wants to work together with the county council to update zoning laws to allow more housing density in certain places while maintaining rural and agricultural land. He also touts his ongoing efforts to secure state and federal funding to build a "Skill Center" at Meridian High School to expand family-wage job opportunities in skilled trades. 

Sidhu has earned many endorsements from local and state progressive leaders in this crowded race. If re-elected, he would be one of the few people of color in county leadership positions in Washington state. We lean toward Satpal Sidhu for Whatcom County Executive.

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Non-Partisan

Barry Buchanan

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Navy veteran and Whatcom County Council Chair Barry Buchanan is running for Whatcom County Executive. Buchanan has been a reliable progressive leader on the county council during his two terms in office. He was chair of the Whatcom County Incarceration Reduction and Prevention Taskforce and played an important role in creating the Whatcom Crisis Stabilization Center. This facility provides an alternative for adults who are experiencing a mental health crisis or struggling with withdrawals. 

Buchanan has pushed for more progressive alternatives to a large and expensive new jail. Buchanan was also part of the unanimous vote in 2021 to prevent the expansion of fossil fuel facilities at Cherry Point. Previously, he worked to ban fracking and protect Whatcom County's water. Buchanan is now running for county executive focused on rebuilding trust and support for a more progressive jail plan, implementing the Children's Fund, and protecting Lake Whatcom. 

While Buchanan's campaign is off to a slow start, with relatively few funds raised as of mid-July and not much visible earlier campaigning, he offers an alternative for voters looking for more progressive leadership in Whatcom County.

Navy veteran and Whatcom County Council Chair Barry Buchanan is running for Whatcom County Executive. Buchanan has been a reliable progressive leader on the county council during his two terms in office. He was chair of the Whatcom County Incarceration Reduction and Prevention Taskforce and played an important role in creating the Whatcom Crisis Stabilization Center. This facility provides an alternative for adults who are experiencing a mental health crisis or struggling with withdrawals. 

Buchanan has pushed for more progressive alternatives to a large and expensive new jail. Buchanan was also part of the unanimous vote in 2021 to prevent the expansion of fossil fuel facilities at Cherry Point. Previously, he worked to ban fracking and protect Whatcom County's water. Buchanan is now running for county executive focused on rebuilding trust and support for a more progressive jail plan, implementing the Children's Fund, and protecting Lake Whatcom. 

While Buchanan's campaign is off to a slow start, with relatively few funds raised as of mid-July and not much visible earlier campaigning, he offers an alternative for voters looking for more progressive leadership in Whatcom County.

Endorsed By: The Riveters Collective

Other Candidates

There are four other candidates running for Whatcom County Executive. State Rep. Alicia Rule owns a therapy practice and previously served on the Blaine City Council and as president of the Blaine Downtown Development Association.

Rule brought her expertise in counseling to the Legislature in her two terms by focusing on health care and youth services. She supported legislation increasing access to outdoor education, encouraging young people to participate in fishing and shellfishing, and ensuring that services like counseling are available to public employees. Unfortunately, Rule also voted against several top progressive priorities in Olympia. Rule voted against banning the sale of assault weapons, opposed stronger gun background checks, and was the only legislator from Whatcom County not to support eliminating Tim Eyman's advisory votes, among other problematic votes.

Rule is running for Whatcom County Executive on a moderate platform that's somewhat thin on forward-looking details. She emphasizes her commitment to reducing crime, addressing homelessness, and building a new jail. In the legislature and in her campaign, Rule has taken more conservative positions related to policing and the criminal legal system than her opponents in this race. While Rule is a Democrat who supported many important bills in Olympia, she is clearly a less progressive choice than Sidhu or Buchanan.

Republican business executive Dan Purdy previously worked for the oil company BP and the mining company Freeport-McMoran Copper and Gold. He has already earned the endorsements of local MAGA Republicans like former Sen. Simon Sefzik. Purdy is not a progressive choice in this race.

Sukhwant Gill has been a Blaine business owner for 28 years, operating the Blaine Mart, a Shell gas station, and Big Al's Diner. Gill is also on the Blaine Tourism Advisory Committee and has been president of Guru Nanak Guru Sikh Temple for the past three years.

Misty Flowers is an outspoken anti-vaccine activist who has spread false and misleading information about the groundbreaking COVID-19 vaccines that saved millions of lives. She is not running a competitive campaign in this race.  

Last updated: 2023-07-13

There are four other candidates running for Whatcom County Executive. State Rep. Alicia Rule owns a therapy practice and previously served on the Blaine City Council and as president of the Blaine Downtown Development Association.

Rule brought her expertise in counseling to the Legislature in her two terms by focusing on health care and youth services. She supported legislation increasing access to outdoor education, encouraging young people to participate in fishing and shellfishing, and ensuring that services like counseling are available to public employees. Unfortunately, Rule also voted against several top progressive priorities in Olympia. Rule voted against banning the sale of assault weapons, opposed stronger gun background checks, and was the only legislator from Whatcom County not to support eliminating Tim Eyman's advisory votes, among other problematic votes.

Rule is running for Whatcom County Executive on a moderate platform that's somewhat thin on forward-looking details. She emphasizes her commitment to reducing crime, addressing homelessness, and building a new jail. In the legislature and in her campaign, Rule has taken more conservative positions related to policing and the criminal legal system than her opponents in this race. While Rule is a Democrat who supported many important bills in Olympia, she is clearly a less progressive choice than Sidhu or Buchanan.

Republican business executive Dan Purdy previously worked for the oil company BP and the mining company Freeport-McMoran Copper and Gold. He has already earned the endorsements of local MAGA Republicans like former Sen. Simon Sefzik. Purdy is not a progressive choice in this race.

Sukhwant Gill has been a Blaine business owner for 28 years, operating the Blaine Mart, a Shell gas station, and Big Al's Diner. Gill is also on the Blaine Tourism Advisory Committee and has been president of Guru Nanak Guru Sikh Temple for the past three years.

Misty Flowers is an outspoken anti-vaccine activist who has spread false and misleading information about the groundbreaking COVID-19 vaccines that saved millions of lives. She is not running a competitive campaign in this race.  

Last updated: 2023-07-13

Whatcom County Council

Whatcom County Council, At-Large Position B

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Non-Partisan

Jon Scanlon

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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.

Endorsed By: Pro-Choice Washington , Teamsters Joint Council 28 , UFCW 3000 , Washington Conservation Action , The Riveters Collective, Bellingham/Whatcom Fire Fighters Union IAFF Local 106
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Non-Partisan

Atul Deshmane

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Current Whatcom County Public Utility District (PUD) Commission president Atul Deshmane is now running for county council. He has a background in electrical and industrial engineering and proudly touts the working farm where he lives with his family. 

If elected, Deshmane would prioritize increasing the resilience of local infrastructure to adapt to climate change. He points to his record on the PUD as evidence of his experience in improving energy efficiency, protecting our water, advocating for clean energy, and expanding broadband access. Deshmane was one of the authors of "The Big Lift," an ambitious proposal to address the homelessness crisis by declaring a public health emergency and building four villages with 25 tiny homes each. He has also been an outspoken critic of the plan to build a new jail in Whatcom County, including voting against the recent proposal in his role on the Stakeholder Advisory Committee to the county council.

Current Whatcom County Public Utility District (PUD) Commission president Atul Deshmane is now running for county council. He has a background in electrical and industrial engineering and proudly touts the working farm where he lives with his family. 

If elected, Deshmane would prioritize increasing the resilience of local infrastructure to adapt to climate change. He points to his record on the PUD as evidence of his experience in improving energy efficiency, protecting our water, advocating for clean energy, and expanding broadband access. Deshmane was one of the authors of "The Big Lift," an ambitious proposal to address the homelessness crisis by declaring a public health emergency and building four villages with 25 tiny homes each. He has also been an outspoken critic of the plan to build a new jail in Whatcom County, including voting against the recent proposal in his role on the Stakeholder Advisory Committee to the county council.

Endorsed By: Sage Leaders , The Sierra Club, Mt. Baker Chapter

Other Candidates

Hannah Ordos is a customer support manager at Vitamin Porfolio LLC and is a member of the North Sound Behavioral Health Advisory Board. Her website focuses on bringing people together and offers few specific policy details. In 2021, she endorsed Republican Tyler Byrd for Whatcom County Council and this February she was part of a group of "vaccine skeptics" nominated for the Whatcom County Health Board. 

Jerry Burns ran as a Libertarian for state Senate in 2016 from the 42nd Legislative District against former Rep. Vincent Buys. He is not running a competitive campaign in this race.

Last updated: 2023-07-13

Hannah Ordos is a customer support manager at Vitamin Porfolio LLC and is a member of the North Sound Behavioral Health Advisory Board. Her website focuses on bringing people together and offers few specific policy details. In 2021, she endorsed Republican Tyler Byrd for Whatcom County Council and this February she was part of a group of "vaccine skeptics" nominated for the Whatcom County Health Board. 

Jerry Burns ran as a Libertarian for state Senate in 2016 from the 42nd Legislative District against former Rep. Vincent Buys. He is not running a competitive campaign in this race.

Last updated: 2023-07-13

City Races

Depending on where you live, you may have the following city races on your ballot.

Bellingham Mayor

Bellingham Mayor

No Recommendation

There are three leading progressive candidates in the race for Mayor of Bellingham this year: Kim Lund, Councilmember Kristina Michele Martens, and incumbent Mayor Seth Fleetwood. After extensive research and discussions with community leaders, we are not making a recommendation in this race for the primary. Read the descriptions below to find the candidate who best fits your values and priorities for Bellingham.  

 

There are three leading progressive candidates in the race for Mayor of Bellingham this year: Kim Lund, Councilmember Kristina Michele Martens, and incumbent Mayor Seth Fleetwood. After extensive research and discussions with community leaders, we are not making a recommendation in this race for the primary. Read the descriptions below to find the candidate who best fits your values and priorities for Bellingham.  

 

Kim Lund photo

Kim Lund

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Kim Lund is a former director of the Bellingham Public Schools Foundation and currently serves on the Whatcom County Planning Commission. She is now running for mayor of Bellingham to bring her non-profit leadership and management skills to city hall.

Like many other candidates on the Bellingham ballot this year, Lund would prioritize affordable housing, community safety, and fighting climate change. She is seeking to differentiate herself in this race with her leadership experience. She stresses themes like listening and taking accountability for decision-making, which she feels have been lacking during the current administration. Unfortunately, Lund's platform on "Community Health and Safety" focuses heavily on the concerns of downtown business owners with less emphasis on the underlying needs of people experiencing homelessness or struggling with addiction. Her goals around implementing the Climate Action Protection Plan are more thoughtful, including exploring eliminating transit fares to increase ridership. 

While Lund has long been active in the community, she is newer to the political sphere. As a result, it's less clear exactly what agenda she would pursue as mayor, especially relative to Fleetwood and Martens, who both have demonstrated track records in elected office. Lund is a good choice if you're looking for new leadership in Bellingham that emphasizes strong management and collaboration across the city.

Kim Lund is a former director of the Bellingham Public Schools Foundation and currently serves on the Whatcom County Planning Commission. She is now running for mayor of Bellingham to bring her non-profit leadership and management skills to city hall.

Like many other candidates on the Bellingham ballot this year, Lund would prioritize affordable housing, community safety, and fighting climate change. She is seeking to differentiate herself in this race with her leadership experience. She stresses themes like listening and taking accountability for decision-making, which she feels have been lacking during the current administration. Unfortunately, Lund's platform on "Community Health and Safety" focuses heavily on the concerns of downtown business owners with less emphasis on the underlying needs of people experiencing homelessness or struggling with addiction. Her goals around implementing the Climate Action Protection Plan are more thoughtful, including exploring eliminating transit fares to increase ridership. 

While Lund has long been active in the community, she is newer to the political sphere. As a result, it's less clear exactly what agenda she would pursue as mayor, especially relative to Fleetwood and Martens, who both have demonstrated track records in elected office. Lund is a good choice if you're looking for new leadership in Bellingham that emphasizes strong management and collaboration across the city.

Endorsed By: The Riveter's Collective, Bellingham Whatcom County Fire Fighters Local 106, the Sierra Club Mt. Baker Chapter
Kristina Michele Martens photo

Kristina Michele Martens

Website Facebook

Bellingham City Councilmember Kristina Michele Martens is now running for mayor of Bellingham. Prior to running for office, Martens was the co-founder of the Whatcom Racial Equity Commission, the host of local radio and television shows, and the creator of the popular "Bellingham Idol" singing competition. In 2021, she became the first Black member in the history of the Bellingham City Council.  

During her year and a half on the council, Martens has been a strong advocate for housing and promoting equity in city policies. She advocated for a safe parking location for people experiencing homelessness. In addition, she has worked with renters' groups to raise awareness about landlords who are not maintaining safe units. Martens was one of only two members of the council to oppose the mayor's recent proposal to make public drug use a misdemeanor subject to arrest.  

Martens is running for mayor to elevate many of the same issues she has advocated for as a council member. She recently described herself as a "lone dissenting voice" on the Bellingham City Council and expressed frustration at being unable to do more in her current role. She wants to use the mayor's office to push for greater transparency from city staff and do more for low-income renters.  

Martens is a good choice if you're looking for a very progressive candidate who would shake up the status quo within city government.

Bellingham City Councilmember Kristina Michele Martens is now running for mayor of Bellingham. Prior to running for office, Martens was the co-founder of the Whatcom Racial Equity Commission, the host of local radio and television shows, and the creator of the popular "Bellingham Idol" singing competition. In 2021, she became the first Black member in the history of the Bellingham City Council.  

During her year and a half on the council, Martens has been a strong advocate for housing and promoting equity in city policies. She advocated for a safe parking location for people experiencing homelessness. In addition, she has worked with renters' groups to raise awareness about landlords who are not maintaining safe units. Martens was one of only two members of the council to oppose the mayor's recent proposal to make public drug use a misdemeanor subject to arrest.  

Martens is running for mayor to elevate many of the same issues she has advocated for as a council member. She recently described herself as a "lone dissenting voice" on the Bellingham City Council and expressed frustration at being unable to do more in her current role. She wants to use the mayor's office to push for greater transparency from city staff and do more for low-income renters.  

Martens is a good choice if you're looking for a very progressive candidate who would shake up the status quo within city government.

Endorsed By: UFCW 3000 , The Riveters Collective, Alliance for Gun Responsibility
Seth Fleetwood photo

Seth Fleetwood

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Seth Fleetwood is running for a second term as mayor of Bellingham. He is a lawyer who previously served as co-chair of the Whatcom County Housing Affordability Task Force, a former member of both the Whatcom County Council and Bellingham City Council, and a 2014 state Senate candidate.

During his first term as mayor, Fleetwood prioritized fighting climate change and supporting the city during the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, he played a lead role in proposing a Climate Action Plan that would have paid for energy efficiency upgrades in buildings, encouraged electric vehicles, and used cleaner sources of energy for local electricity. Notably, Bellingham became just the third city in the state of Washington to require all new buildings more than three stories tall to use electricity for hot water and heating instead of natural gas. Fleetwood also touts his efforts to protect natural areas like the Post Point heron colony and develop a Greenways Strategic Plan for future trails and parks. 

Fleetwood generated significant backlash for how he handled a homeless encampment in front of city hall. After allowing the encampment to grow over the course of months, the city response "included Bellingham Police, Washington State Patrol, Whatcom Sheriff's deputies, and even federal Border Patrol agents - all in riot gear." 

Recently, we were disappointed that Fleetwood signed a letter along with six other mayors urging the county council to consider an even larger jail facility than the 440 beds proposed by the county executive. He also supported placing greater emphasis on mental health and substance use treatment facilities. 

While Fleetwood had a somewhat rocky first term dominated by the pandemic, he is a good choice for voters looking for a mayor who will aggressively pursue climate action and protect the local environment.

Seth Fleetwood is running for a second term as mayor of Bellingham. He is a lawyer who previously served as co-chair of the Whatcom County Housing Affordability Task Force, a former member of both the Whatcom County Council and Bellingham City Council, and a 2014 state Senate candidate.

During his first term as mayor, Fleetwood prioritized fighting climate change and supporting the city during the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, he played a lead role in proposing a Climate Action Plan that would have paid for energy efficiency upgrades in buildings, encouraged electric vehicles, and used cleaner sources of energy for local electricity. Notably, Bellingham became just the third city in the state of Washington to require all new buildings more than three stories tall to use electricity for hot water and heating instead of natural gas. Fleetwood also touts his efforts to protect natural areas like the Post Point heron colony and develop a Greenways Strategic Plan for future trails and parks. 

Fleetwood generated significant backlash for how he handled a homeless encampment in front of city hall. After allowing the encampment to grow over the course of months, the city response "included Bellingham Police, Washington State Patrol, Whatcom Sheriff's deputies, and even federal Border Patrol agents - all in riot gear." 

Recently, we were disappointed that Fleetwood signed a letter along with six other mayors urging the county council to consider an even larger jail facility than the 440 beds proposed by the county executive. He also supported placing greater emphasis on mental health and substance use treatment facilities. 

While Fleetwood had a somewhat rocky first term dominated by the pandemic, he is a good choice for voters looking for a mayor who will aggressively pursue climate action and protect the local environment.

Other Candidates

Mike McAuley is a former member of the Bellingham Port Commission and currently serves on the Bellingham Planning Commission. McAuley has a background in urban design and land use that he wants to put to use helping Bellingham solve it's homelessness and housing affordability crisis. Would set a goal of creating at least 300 micro-homes to people living unsheltered in a series of small villages. In addition, he proposes allowing owners of lots that are at least 7,500 square feet to subdivide their land and build smaller homes with "pre-approved" designs that wouldn't need additional permits. While McAuley offers many innovative policy solutions, he has not earned as broad of support in this race from our progressive partners. 

Chris McCoy, the founder and CEO of Kombucha Town, is also running for mayor of Bellingham. McCoy wants to utilize his business experience to streamline operations at the city. His platform promises to increase affordable housing by expediting permits and middle housing construction and to invest $1.2 million in expanding the planning department to speed up small business development.

Last updated: 2023-07-24

Mike McAuley is a former member of the Bellingham Port Commission and currently serves on the Bellingham Planning Commission. McAuley has a background in urban design and land use that he wants to put to use helping Bellingham solve it's homelessness and housing affordability crisis. Would set a goal of creating at least 300 micro-homes to people living unsheltered in a series of small villages. In addition, he proposes allowing owners of lots that are at least 7,500 square feet to subdivide their land and build smaller homes with "pre-approved" designs that wouldn't need additional permits. While McAuley offers many innovative policy solutions, he has not earned as broad of support in this race from our progressive partners. 

Chris McCoy, the founder and CEO of Kombucha Town, is also running for mayor of Bellingham. McCoy wants to utilize his business experience to streamline operations at the city. His platform promises to increase affordable housing by expediting permits and middle housing construction and to invest $1.2 million in expanding the planning department to speed up small business development.

Last updated: 2023-07-24

Bellingham City Council

Bellingham City Council, At-Large

Jace Cotton photo

Jace Cotton

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Progressive campaign organizer Jace Cotton is running for the at-large seat on the Bellingham City Council. This seat is open after Councilmember Kristina Michele Martens decided to run for mayor. 

Cotton was a campaign manager with the Whatcom County Democrats for the last two years, playing a key role in winning all seven priority races. He is now the Campaign Director of Community First Whatcom, which has placed two initiatives on this year’s November ballot. One initiative would raise the minimum wage by $2 and the other would increase protections for renters. Previously, he graduated from Western Washington University and worked as a paraeducator in local public schools.  

Cotton is running to advance economic justice in Bellingham. He wants to support low-wage workers and seniors who are struggling with the rapidly increasing cost of living. 

Cotton has earned a very impressive slate of endorsements for a first-time candidate and is the best choice in this race.

Progressive campaign organizer Jace Cotton is running for the at-large seat on the Bellingham City Council. This seat is open after Councilmember Kristina Michele Martens decided to run for mayor. 

Cotton was a campaign manager with the Whatcom County Democrats for the last two years, playing a key role in winning all seven priority races. He is now the Campaign Director of Community First Whatcom, which has placed two initiatives on this year’s November ballot. One initiative would raise the minimum wage by $2 and the other would increase protections for renters. Previously, he graduated from Western Washington University and worked as a paraeducator in local public schools.  

Cotton is running to advance economic justice in Bellingham. He wants to support low-wage workers and seniors who are struggling with the rapidly increasing cost of living. 

Cotton has earned a very impressive slate of endorsements for a first-time candidate and is the best choice in this race.

Endorsed By: The Riveters Collective
Maya Morales photo

Maya Morales

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Maya Morales is a progressive organizer and founder of the WA People's Privacy and previously worked with People First Bellingham. She was an outspoken advocate for the four progressive ballot measures that went before Bellingham voters in 2021, two of which passed.

Morales is running to bring the perspectives of low-income and marginalized people to the Bellingham City Council. She wants to push for a clean energy transition, advocate for community safety that goes beyond policing and mass surveillance, and ensure everyone has access to housing and public transit. 

Morales has likely the most progressive platform of any candidate in this race but has not received broad endorsements from community leaders or advocacy organizations.

Maya Morales is a progressive organizer and founder of the WA People's Privacy and previously worked with People First Bellingham. She was an outspoken advocate for the four progressive ballot measures that went before Bellingham voters in 2021, two of which passed.

Morales is running to bring the perspectives of low-income and marginalized people to the Bellingham City Council. She wants to push for a clean energy transition, advocate for community safety that goes beyond policing and mass surveillance, and ensure everyone has access to housing and public transit. 

Morales has likely the most progressive platform of any candidate in this race but has not received broad endorsements from community leaders or advocacy organizations.

Endorsed By: Pro-Choice Washington

Other Candidates

Financial advisor Russ Whidbee is running for Bellingham City Council once again on a more moderate platform. Previously, he served on the board of the Bellingham Technical College Foundation and with the Kulshan Community Land Trust.

His campaign is focused on housing affordability, public safety, and homelessness. He states that his focus would be on seeking out grants and public and private partnerships with banks and developers to increase affordable housing. However, he seems unwilling to support the kind of zoning changes needed to bring more housing options and density to our community. He also says he wants to "reimagine" public safety for Bellingham and acknowledges systemic racism in law enforcement. However, his specific policy proposals - like body cameras and de-escalation training - should represent the bare minimum and have largely been implemented already.

Garrett O’Brien is a moderate planning commission member who owns a home-building company in Bellingham. His campaign is focused on bringing people together and he offers a number of business-focused housing and homelessness proposals that fail to reach the scale needed to solve this crisis. 

Community development planner Paul Schissler is also running for the Bellingham at-large seat. He is the co-founder of the Kulshan Land Trust and served as the group's executive director for more than a decade. His longtime community involvement also included serving on the Whatcom County Housing Advisory Committee and on the board of Fairhaven Neighbors. 

As of mid-July, Schissler has not released a detailed campaign platform. He emphasizes his decades of experience in housing and land use and vaguely pledges to bring people together to create a brighter future for Bellingham.

Last updated: 2023-07-12

Financial advisor Russ Whidbee is running for Bellingham City Council once again on a more moderate platform. Previously, he served on the board of the Bellingham Technical College Foundation and with the Kulshan Community Land Trust.

His campaign is focused on housing affordability, public safety, and homelessness. He states that his focus would be on seeking out grants and public and private partnerships with banks and developers to increase affordable housing. However, he seems unwilling to support the kind of zoning changes needed to bring more housing options and density to our community. He also says he wants to "reimagine" public safety for Bellingham and acknowledges systemic racism in law enforcement. However, his specific policy proposals - like body cameras and de-escalation training - should represent the bare minimum and have largely been implemented already.

Garrett O’Brien is a moderate planning commission member who owns a home-building company in Bellingham. His campaign is focused on bringing people together and he offers a number of business-focused housing and homelessness proposals that fail to reach the scale needed to solve this crisis. 

Community development planner Paul Schissler is also running for the Bellingham at-large seat. He is the co-founder of the Kulshan Land Trust and served as the group's executive director for more than a decade. His longtime community involvement also included serving on the Whatcom County Housing Advisory Committee and on the board of Fairhaven Neighbors. 

As of mid-July, Schissler has not released a detailed campaign platform. He emphasizes his decades of experience in housing and land use and vaguely pledges to bring people together to create a brighter future for Bellingham.

Last updated: 2023-07-12

City of Bellingham, 1st Ward

Bellingham City Council, 1st Ward

Eamonn Collins photo

Eamonn Collins

Website Endorsements

Educator and conservation activist Eamonn Collins is running for Bellingham City Council from Ward #1. Collins teaches high school chemistry and physics to students at Lummi Nation School. He is the trustee with the Kulshan Community Land Trust where he advocates for affordable homeownership and environmental sustainability. Prior to moving to Whatcom County five years ago, Collins was a legislative assistant to U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) focused on education issues.

Collins believes the current Bellingham City Council is not approaching the city's challenges with enough urgency. If elected, he would seek to streamline the planning process for building more housing and encourage more multi-family housing. Like Kristina Michele Martens, Collins would bring more of an organizer's approach to council discussions and policies. 

Collins is a good choice for voters looking for a more outspoken progressive voice on the Bellingham City Council.

Educator and conservation activist Eamonn Collins is running for Bellingham City Council from Ward #1. Collins teaches high school chemistry and physics to students at Lummi Nation School. He is the trustee with the Kulshan Community Land Trust where he advocates for affordable homeownership and environmental sustainability. Prior to moving to Whatcom County five years ago, Collins was a legislative assistant to U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) focused on education issues.

Collins believes the current Bellingham City Council is not approaching the city's challenges with enough urgency. If elected, he would seek to streamline the planning process for building more housing and encourage more multi-family housing. Like Kristina Michele Martens, Collins would bring more of an organizer's approach to council discussions and policies. 

Collins is a good choice for voters looking for a more outspoken progressive voice on the Bellingham City Council.

Endorsed By: The Riveters Collective
Hannah Stone photo

Hannah Stone

Website Facebook Endorsements

Immigration lawyer Hannah Stone is running for re-election to the Bellingham City Council in Ward 1. She was appointed to the at-large position on the Bellingham City Council in 2018 and won the Ward 1 seat in 2019. Stone was unanimously selected by the council for her positions on small businesses, education, and affordable housing. She worked in immigration and citizenship law in Bellingham for 11 years in addition to serving as chair of the Whatcom County chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union and co-chair of Citizens for Bellingham Schools. 

Stone is running to utilize her experience as a lawyer and analytical thinking skills to help the city council tackle Bellingham's biggest challenges. During her first term, she took a pragmatic approach on the council during the tumultuous period early in the pandemic. In particular, she pushed to use a portion of the federal pandemic relief funding to make some long-term investments in the community. Unfortunately, she was part of the 5-2 majority of the City Council that recently voted to criminalize public drug use in Bellingham. If elected, she would prioritize housing affordability, homelessness, and climate action.

Stone is a good choice for voters looking for an experienced voice on the council with a track record of building coalitions. 

Immigration lawyer Hannah Stone is running for re-election to the Bellingham City Council in Ward 1. She was appointed to the at-large position on the Bellingham City Council in 2018 and won the Ward 1 seat in 2019. Stone was unanimously selected by the council for her positions on small businesses, education, and affordable housing. She worked in immigration and citizenship law in Bellingham for 11 years in addition to serving as chair of the Whatcom County chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union and co-chair of Citizens for Bellingham Schools. 

Stone is running to utilize her experience as a lawyer and analytical thinking skills to help the city council tackle Bellingham's biggest challenges. During her first term, she took a pragmatic approach on the council during the tumultuous period early in the pandemic. In particular, she pushed to use a portion of the federal pandemic relief funding to make some long-term investments in the community. Unfortunately, she was part of the 5-2 majority of the City Council that recently voted to criminalize public drug use in Bellingham. If elected, she would prioritize housing affordability, homelessness, and climate action.

Stone is a good choice for voters looking for an experienced voice on the council with a track record of building coalitions. 

Endorsed By: Northwest Washington Central Labor Council

Other Candidates

Michi Marcher is a queer, low-income single parent running to advocate for renters who are struggling with the cost of housing and poor treatment from landlords. Marcher played a leading role in the fight against wage theft at The Willows Inn, which received national attention. If elected, Marcher would push for more affordable housing, stronger protections for renters, and the adoption of the "Willows Initiative" citywide to prevent wage theft.

Last updated: 2023-07-07

Michi Marcher is a queer, low-income single parent running to advocate for renters who are struggling with the cost of housing and poor treatment from landlords. Marcher played a leading role in the fight against wage theft at The Willows Inn, which received national attention. If elected, Marcher would push for more affordable housing, stronger protections for renters, and the adoption of the "Willows Initiative" citywide to prevent wage theft.

Last updated: 2023-07-07

Meridian School Board

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

Meridian School Board, Director, District #5

J. Riley Sweeney photo

J. Riley Sweeney

Website Facebook (Twitter)

J. Riley Sweeney is challenging incumbent director Craig Mitchell for the District 5 seat on the Meridian School District board. Sweeney currently works as the City of Ferndale’s Communication/Recreation Coordinator, but his work experience also includes nonprofit work and small business support. Additionally, he chairs the County Food System Committee and serves on the Irene Reither Elementary PTA board.

If elected, Sweeney wants to prevent partisan influence on public curriculums and instead focus on accuracy, fact, and science so that Meridian students are best prepared for their futures. Another priority for him is to make sweeping investments in the district to support educators with higher salaries, help continued recovery from the pandemic, and uplift enrichment programs and the arts.

Incumbent Craig Mitchell first joined the school board in 2017. He is a boilermaker and welder who has volunteered in some youth sports coaching. Mitchell is not yet running a strong re-election campaign. He has no website as of mid-July and his county voters guide statement is sparse, solely listing the vague ideas of “education” and “preparation” as his campaign priorities.

Also in this race is Michelle Simmons, who works for a restoration franchise business. She is a first-time candidate involved in a number of community groups, including the Meridian Boosters, the Meridian Strategic Planning Committee, and a PTA, where she serves as a chair. Simmons’ campaign platform does not include any progressive solutions or specific policy suggestions. She does not have a campaign website as of mid-July.

Nursing professor Malia Pickett is also vying for this seat. Pickett teaches at Skagit Valley College where she chairs the Nursing Department and serves on the college’s Federation of Teachers Executive Council. She served on the task force to implement a comprehensive sexual health curriculum in Meridian schools. In this race, she wants to bring rational leadership to the school board to focus on belonging and inclusion while attending to the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of students.

As a parent to students in the Meridian School District with strong progressive values, J. Riley Sweeney is the best choice in this race for Director, District 5 on the Meridian School District board.
 

J. Riley Sweeney is challenging incumbent director Craig Mitchell for the District 5 seat on the Meridian School District board. Sweeney currently works as the City of Ferndale’s Communication/Recreation Coordinator, but his work experience also includes nonprofit work and small business support. Additionally, he chairs the County Food System Committee and serves on the Irene Reither Elementary PTA board.

If elected, Sweeney wants to prevent partisan influence on public curriculums and instead focus on accuracy, fact, and science so that Meridian students are best prepared for their futures. Another priority for him is to make sweeping investments in the district to support educators with higher salaries, help continued recovery from the pandemic, and uplift enrichment programs and the arts.

Incumbent Craig Mitchell first joined the school board in 2017. He is a boilermaker and welder who has volunteered in some youth sports coaching. Mitchell is not yet running a strong re-election campaign. He has no website as of mid-July and his county voters guide statement is sparse, solely listing the vague ideas of “education” and “preparation” as his campaign priorities.

Also in this race is Michelle Simmons, who works for a restoration franchise business. She is a first-time candidate involved in a number of community groups, including the Meridian Boosters, the Meridian Strategic Planning Committee, and a PTA, where she serves as a chair. Simmons’ campaign platform does not include any progressive solutions or specific policy suggestions. She does not have a campaign website as of mid-July.

Nursing professor Malia Pickett is also vying for this seat. Pickett teaches at Skagit Valley College where she chairs the Nursing Department and serves on the college’s Federation of Teachers Executive Council. She served on the task force to implement a comprehensive sexual health curriculum in Meridian schools. In this race, she wants to bring rational leadership to the school board to focus on belonging and inclusion while attending to the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of students.

As a parent to students in the Meridian School District with strong progressive values, J. Riley Sweeney is the best choice in this race for Director, District 5 on the Meridian School District board.