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Welcome to the Fuse Progressive Voters Guide to the 2025 Primary election! Since 2008, we've compiled information about candidates and ballot measures that allows you to make informed decisions about the races on your ballot, based on your values. You can learn about our partners and decision-making process here. We will continue to add additional recommendations until voting begins on July 16.

King County Ballot Measures

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

VOTE APPROVED

Vote YES for King County Parks

The King County Parks Levy is up for renewal this year. The levy renewal is designed to maintain, enhance, and grow the county's parks and connectivity. King County maintains 220 parks that include 275 miles of trails and 32,000 acres of open space. Some of the services that will benefit from this levy include pools and splash parks, ballfields and sport courts, climate resilience efforts, and much more.

The levy renewal rate is $0.23 per $1,000 of assessed property value. For the owner of a median-valued home of $844,000, the levy renewal will cost $16.38 per month.

All children in King County deserve fun and safe places to play, and preserving our open spaces now will help ensure clean air and water for future generations. Vote YES to renew the King County Parks Levy for continued maintenance of our parks and recreation services.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

The King County Parks Levy is up for renewal this year. The levy renewal is designed to maintain, enhance, and grow the county's parks and connectivity. King County maintains 220 parks that include 275 miles of trails and 32,000 acres of open space. Some of the services that will benefit from this levy include pools and splash parks, ballfields and sport courts, climate resilience efforts, and much more.

The levy renewal rate is $0.23 per $1,000 of assessed property value. For the owner of a median-valued home of $844,000, the levy renewal will cost $16.38 per month.

All children in King County deserve fun and safe places to play, and preserving our open spaces now will help ensure clean air and water for future generations. Vote YES to renew the King County Parks Levy for continued maintenance of our parks and recreation services.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

King County

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

King County Councilmember Claudia Balducci has served District 6 (Bellevue and East King County) since 2015. She began her career as a public interest lawyer fighting for women and LGBTQ+ people. She was a neighborhood organizer who went on to serve on the Bellevue City Council, including for a term as mayor. Balducci has served as chair of the county council and serves as vice chair of the Sound Transit Board of Directors, where she successfully advocated for an early opening of the "starter line" in East King County.

In her nearly two decades of public service, Balducci has prioritized progressive solutions to the issues facing our region, including improving transportation options, promoting affordable housing, enhancing community safety, addressing climate action, and supporting arts and culture. Her track record is strong in all of these areas, including an arts levy to invest in science, heritage, arts, and cultural organizations, as well as legislation to keep “forever chemicals” out of our local environment. She was a tenacious advocate for the East Link light rail and the 10-station, 14-mile expansion plan slated for completion in early 2026.

Balducci is running for the executive position with a vision of an inclusive, vibrant, and climate-friendly county where all residents can thrive. She emphasizes her track record of effective leadership at the city and county levels that has delivered results for her communities. As a bus and bike commuter, Balducci is an avid supporter of expanding transit options, particularly light rail and bus routes. Additionally, she is an advocate for transit-oriented housing as a means of improving affordability, as well as cutting red tape to expedite the construction of badly needed housing in our region. Furthermore, she outlined thoughtful plans to reduce gun violence, expand mental health and addiction treatment services, and youth prevention programs.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

King County Councilmember Claudia Balducci has served District 6 (Bellevue and East King County) since 2015. She began her career as a public interest lawyer fighting for women and LGBTQ+ people. She was a neighborhood organizer who went on to serve on the Bellevue City Council, including for a term as mayor. Balducci has served as chair of the county council and serves as vice chair of the Sound Transit Board of Directors, where she successfully advocated for an early opening of the "starter line" in East King County.

In her nearly two decades of public service, Balducci has prioritized progressive solutions to the issues facing our region, including improving transportation options, promoting affordable housing, enhancing community safety, addressing climate action, and supporting arts and culture. Her track record is strong in all of these areas, including an arts levy to invest in science, heritage, arts, and cultural organizations, as well as legislation to keep “forever chemicals” out of our local environment. She was a tenacious advocate for the East Link light rail and the 10-station, 14-mile expansion plan slated for completion in early 2026.

Balducci is running for the executive position with a vision of an inclusive, vibrant, and climate-friendly county where all residents can thrive. She emphasizes her track record of effective leadership at the city and county levels that has delivered results for her communities. As a bus and bike commuter, Balducci is an avid supporter of expanding transit options, particularly light rail and bus routes. Additionally, she is an advocate for transit-oriented housing as a means of improving affordability, as well as cutting red tape to expedite the construction of badly needed housing in our region. Furthermore, she outlined thoughtful plans to reduce gun violence, expand mental health and addiction treatment services, and youth prevention programs.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

Endorsed By: SEIU Local 925 , Washington Bikes , Bellevue Firefighters - IAFF Local 1604

King County Council President Girmay Zahilay has represented District 2 (Central and South Seattle) since his first election in 2019. He is an attorney with experience in both the corporate and public sectors. Zahilay also founded Rising Leaders, a nonprofit that uplifts underserved middle school students to reach their full potential. Born in a refugee settlement in Sudan and raised in Seattle’s public housing, he made his way through Stanford University to serve in the Obama administration.

On the county council, Zahilay has focused on pressing issues such as community safety, the cost of living, and making investments in local public services. His accomplishments demonstrate a comprehensive and progressive approach to enhancing the quality of life for all county residents. Zahilay led the Food Bank Motion to bring greater food security and affordability to our region, helped efforts to transform Skyway, including greater public transit coverage, and worked to establish five crisis care centers that help our neighbors struggling with addiction and mental illness.

Zahilay's campaign focuses on a wide range of progressive priorities. His own personal experience with homelessness informs his approach to the issue, prioritizing solutions such as investing in additional shelter beds, zoning reforms, rental assistance programs, and youth-oriented programming to prevent homelessness. He is also a strong supporter of not only protecting but expanding access to reproductive healthcare, including gender-affirming care. Some of his other priorities include public safety, gun violence prevention, and more. Zahilay's platform is carefully and thoroughly constructed, with well-researched progressive solutions.

Zahilay is a great choice if you're looking for new leadership in King County that will prioritize improving the safety and quality of life for all residents.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

King County Council President Girmay Zahilay has represented District 2 (Central and South Seattle) since his first election in 2019. He is an attorney with experience in both the corporate and public sectors. Zahilay also founded Rising Leaders, a nonprofit that uplifts underserved middle school students to reach their full potential. Born in a refugee settlement in Sudan and raised in Seattle’s public housing, he made his way through Stanford University to serve in the Obama administration.

On the county council, Zahilay has focused on pressing issues such as community safety, the cost of living, and making investments in local public services. His accomplishments demonstrate a comprehensive and progressive approach to enhancing the quality of life for all county residents. Zahilay led the Food Bank Motion to bring greater food security and affordability to our region, helped efforts to transform Skyway, including greater public transit coverage, and worked to establish five crisis care centers that help our neighbors struggling with addiction and mental illness.

Zahilay's campaign focuses on a wide range of progressive priorities. His own personal experience with homelessness informs his approach to the issue, prioritizing solutions such as investing in additional shelter beds, zoning reforms, rental assistance programs, and youth-oriented programming to prevent homelessness. He is also a strong supporter of not only protecting but expanding access to reproductive healthcare, including gender-affirming care. Some of his other priorities include public safety, gun violence prevention, and more. Zahilay's platform is carefully and thoroughly constructed, with well-researched progressive solutions.

Zahilay is a great choice if you're looking for new leadership in King County that will prioritize improving the safety and quality of life for all residents.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

Other Candidates

John Wilson, the current King County Assessor, is running for King County Executive. During his campaign, Wilson stated that he would fight for "safe and thriving communities," citing his experience as King County Assessor.

In 2025, Wilson was accused of stalking and harassment by a former domestic partner. This was an alarming and serious allegation, which led to the current King County Council calling for Wilson's resignation. He continues to deny the allegations and remains firm in his campaign. John Wilson is not fit to be King County Executive.

Amiya Ingram is also running for King County Executive. Ingram has worn many hats professionally, from serving as a government military researcher to founding her own athleisure brand. While Ingram's campaign includes some progressive ideas, it also features other proposals that lean more moderate or conservative. She is a proponent of establishing more housing shelters that offer wrap-around services to address the housing crisis and help those struggling with addiction.

Rebecca Williamson is also running for King County Executive. Williamson's campaign website is linked to The Militant, which is a weekly socialist newsletter. As of late June, they do not have a detailed campaign website available, and their platform is unknown.

Bill Hirt is running for King County Executive. Hirt has run for various offices around Washington state, primarily to criticize light rail. Bill Hirt is not a serious candidate for King County Executive.

Don L. Rivers is the final candidate running for King County Executive. While he has a campaign website, it appears to be down as of mid-May, making his platform unknown. We will continue to monitor this race for updates.

Last updated: 2025-07-01

John Wilson, the current King County Assessor, is running for King County Executive. During his campaign, Wilson stated that he would fight for "safe and thriving communities," citing his experience as King County Assessor.

In 2025, Wilson was accused of stalking and harassment by a former domestic partner. This was an alarming and serious allegation, which led to the current King County Council calling for Wilson's resignation. He continues to deny the allegations and remains firm in his campaign. John Wilson is not fit to be King County Executive.

Amiya Ingram is also running for King County Executive. Ingram has worn many hats professionally, from serving as a government military researcher to founding her own athleisure brand. While Ingram's campaign includes some progressive ideas, it also features other proposals that lean more moderate or conservative. She is a proponent of establishing more housing shelters that offer wrap-around services to address the housing crisis and help those struggling with addiction.

Rebecca Williamson is also running for King County Executive. Williamson's campaign website is linked to The Militant, which is a weekly socialist newsletter. As of late June, they do not have a detailed campaign website available, and their platform is unknown.

Bill Hirt is running for King County Executive. Hirt has run for various offices around Washington state, primarily to criticize light rail. Bill Hirt is not a serious candidate for King County Executive.

Don L. Rivers is the final candidate running for King County Executive. While he has a campaign website, it appears to be down as of mid-May, making his platform unknown. We will continue to monitor this race for updates.

Last updated: 2025-07-01

King County, District 7

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

Maya Vengadasalam is running for King County Council, District 7. She served on the Kent School Board for 8 years and worked as a consultant in government finance training. She also identifies as a housing advocate who worked to improve the effectiveness of housing programs and reduce homelessness.

Vengadasalam is running a relatively progressive campaign, with a focus on transparency, housing, and education. Vengadasalam offers her vision through the lens of equity and uplifting communities of color. However, her solutions come across as vague, particularly in expanding affordable housing and advancing education and safety. We would like to see her approach expanded upon further to include more specific progressive solutions, such as density, transitional permanent housing, and educational protections.

Due to her experience and professional background, we lean towards voting for Maya Vengadasalam for King County Council, District 7.

Last updated: 2025-07-03

Maya Vengadasalam is running for King County Council, District 7. She served on the Kent School Board for 8 years and worked as a consultant in government finance training. She also identifies as a housing advocate who worked to improve the effectiveness of housing programs and reduce homelessness.

Vengadasalam is running a relatively progressive campaign, with a focus on transparency, housing, and education. Vengadasalam offers her vision through the lens of equity and uplifting communities of color. However, her solutions come across as vague, particularly in expanding affordable housing and advancing education and safety. We would like to see her approach expanded upon further to include more specific progressive solutions, such as density, transitional permanent housing, and educational protections.

Due to her experience and professional background, we lean towards voting for Maya Vengadasalam for King County Council, District 7.

Last updated: 2025-07-03

Endorsed By: The Stranger

Other Progressive Candidates

Pahaliyah Brown is running for King County Council, District 7. According to his website, he is a graduate of the University of Washington and has experience in public service, environmental policy, and community leadership.

Brown is running a progressive campaign, with a primary focus on environmental issues. He is a proponent of clean policies, including reducing waste and protecting natural resources. Brown would also like to improve street safety through enhanced lighting, better sidewalks, and increased access to reliable transit options. Additionally, he would like to make King County friendlier to small and local businesses.

While we appreciate his progressive values, we would like to see more concrete policy proposals or suggestions from Brown. We lean towards voting for Maya Vengadasalam for King County Council, District 7, due to her relative experience.

Last updated: 2025-07-02

Pahaliyah Brown is running for King County Council, District 7. According to his website, he is a graduate of the University of Washington and has experience in public service, environmental policy, and community leadership.

Brown is running a progressive campaign, with a primary focus on environmental issues. He is a proponent of clean policies, including reducing waste and protecting natural resources. Brown would also like to improve street safety through enhanced lighting, better sidewalks, and increased access to reliable transit options. Additionally, he would like to make King County friendlier to small and local businesses.

While we appreciate his progressive values, we would like to see more concrete policy proposals or suggestions from Brown. We lean towards voting for Maya Vengadasalam for King County Council, District 7, due to her relative experience.

Last updated: 2025-07-02

Other Candidates

Incumbent Pete Von Reichbauer is running for his ninth term on the King County Council in District 7, which covers South King County. Reichbauer is a conservative voice on the council and has not led community progress in his more than three decades of leadership. Before that, he served two decades in the state Senate, where he was also a proponent of right-leaning policy.

On the council, Reichbauer has focused on improving and expanding public space, including projects such as the Hylebos Wetlands, the South King County Baseball fields, and the 317th HOV ramps on Interstate 5. Last year, he and Republican Reagan Dunn were the only council members to vote against a commonsense effort to raise the regional minimum wage to better align with the higher cost of living and modern inflation. Reichbauer has not yet published his current campaign goals, but he is likely to continue implementing a conservative agenda if re-elected.

It’s time for new leadership in District 7. We lean towards voting for Maya Vengadasalam due to her experience in public service.

Last updated: 2025-07-02

Incumbent Pete Von Reichbauer is running for his ninth term on the King County Council in District 7, which covers South King County. Reichbauer is a conservative voice on the council and has not led community progress in his more than three decades of leadership. Before that, he served two decades in the state Senate, where he was also a proponent of right-leaning policy.

On the council, Reichbauer has focused on improving and expanding public space, including projects such as the Hylebos Wetlands, the South King County Baseball fields, and the 317th HOV ramps on Interstate 5. Last year, he and Republican Reagan Dunn were the only council members to vote against a commonsense effort to raise the regional minimum wage to better align with the higher cost of living and modern inflation. Reichbauer has not yet published his current campaign goals, but he is likely to continue implementing a conservative agenda if re-elected.

It’s time for new leadership in District 7. We lean towards voting for Maya Vengadasalam due to her experience in public service.

Last updated: 2025-07-02

Port Races

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

Port of Bellingham

Carly James is challenging incumbent Ken Bell for Bellingham Port Commissioner, District 2. James is the co-owner of Bison Bookbinding & Letterpress and owns Gold Ink, an accounting and consulting firm.

While James' platform is limited, her campaign is prioritizing entrepreneurship, protecting the shoreline and marine trades, and expanding public access to parks, trails, and community spaces. As a small business owner, she experienced firsthand the challenges of the port and wants to do more to drive economic growth in the area.

Although we would like to see her campaign include more specific policy proposals, we lean towards voting for Carly James for Bellingham Port Commissioner, District 2.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

Carly James is challenging incumbent Ken Bell for Bellingham Port Commissioner, District 2. James is the co-owner of Bison Bookbinding & Letterpress and owns Gold Ink, an accounting and consulting firm.

While James' platform is limited, her campaign is prioritizing entrepreneurship, protecting the shoreline and marine trades, and expanding public access to parks, trails, and community spaces. As a small business owner, she experienced firsthand the challenges of the port and wants to do more to drive economic growth in the area.

Although we would like to see her campaign include more specific policy proposals, we lean towards voting for Carly James for Bellingham Port Commissioner, District 2.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

Other Candidates

Incumbent Commissioner Ken Bell is running for another term in District 2 on the Bellingham Port Commission. Formerly a Whatcom County planning commissioner and Whatcom County charter review commissioner, Bell joined the port commission in 2017. He also served as the president of a soil decontamination company outside of office.

Bell is a more conservative voice on the commission and works with the Whatcom Republicans. He has previously been politically affiliated with consultants from a fossil fuel shipping terminal that community members, progressive leaders, and the Lummi Tribe successfully opposed. Bell’s track record on the port commission includes uncompassionate sweeps of homeless encampments on port property as well as supporting private interests and marine trade at the cost of community needs. He is not a progressive choice

Kaylin Bosley is also challenging Bell for Bellingham Port Commissioner, District 2. Bosley is a local comedian who is actively engaged in the queer community of Bellingham. Unfortunately, Bosley's candidate website is still down as of late June. Her voter guide entry highlights her experience in operating under a tight budget and her desire to ensure the port's long-term prosperity. While we appreciate Kaylin Bosley's enthusiasm, we would have liked to see more specific policy proposals from her.

Last updated: 2025-06-30

Incumbent Commissioner Ken Bell is running for another term in District 2 on the Bellingham Port Commission. Formerly a Whatcom County planning commissioner and Whatcom County charter review commissioner, Bell joined the port commission in 2017. He also served as the president of a soil decontamination company outside of office.

Bell is a more conservative voice on the commission and works with the Whatcom Republicans. He has previously been politically affiliated with consultants from a fossil fuel shipping terminal that community members, progressive leaders, and the Lummi Tribe successfully opposed. Bell’s track record on the port commission includes uncompassionate sweeps of homeless encampments on port property as well as supporting private interests and marine trade at the cost of community needs. He is not a progressive choice

Kaylin Bosley is also challenging Bell for Bellingham Port Commissioner, District 2. Bosley is a local comedian who is actively engaged in the queer community of Bellingham. Unfortunately, Bosley's candidate website is still down as of late June. Her voter guide entry highlights her experience in operating under a tight budget and her desire to ensure the port's long-term prosperity. While we appreciate Kaylin Bosley's enthusiasm, we would have liked to see more specific policy proposals from her.

Last updated: 2025-06-30

Port of Tacoma

Incumbent Commissioner John McCarthy is running for re-election to the Port of Tacoma Commission in Position 1. McCarthy first became a commissioner in 1983, serving for nine years, before rejoining the commission again in 2018. His background is as a longshore worker and a Pierce County Superior Court and District Court judge. Between his former and recent port commission terms as well as his judicial leadership, McCarthy has spent nearly four decades in public service roles in Pierce County.

McCarthy’s top issues include environmental protections for the Tacoma Tideflats, job creation, and expanding trade. However, he's taken a relatively moderate approach to many of the port's challenges and missed out on some opportunities to champion environmental conservation and advocate for workers. Despite this record, he's earned an impressive slate of endorsements from progressive community leaders and elected officials.

McCarthy is a good choice for voters looking for a steady, experienced hand at the Port of Tacoma.

Last updated: 2025-07-07

Incumbent Commissioner John McCarthy is running for re-election to the Port of Tacoma Commission in Position 1. McCarthy first became a commissioner in 1983, serving for nine years, before rejoining the commission again in 2018. His background is as a longshore worker and a Pierce County Superior Court and District Court judge. Between his former and recent port commission terms as well as his judicial leadership, McCarthy has spent nearly four decades in public service roles in Pierce County.

McCarthy’s top issues include environmental protections for the Tacoma Tideflats, job creation, and expanding trade. However, he's taken a relatively moderate approach to many of the port's challenges and missed out on some opportunities to champion environmental conservation and advocate for workers. Despite this record, he's earned an impressive slate of endorsements from progressive community leaders and elected officials.

McCarthy is a good choice for voters looking for a steady, experienced hand at the Port of Tacoma.

Last updated: 2025-07-07

Endorsed By: Tacoma Firefighters-IAFF Local 31

Randy Wilson is running for Port Commissioner in Tacoma, District 1. Wilson is a Democrat who has experience in international business trade, particularly in the Japanese market.

Wilson's campaign is prioritizing a strong workforce, environmental protections, and and community collaboration on the Port. He lays out a 4 year plan focused on promoting growth and sustainability. If elected, Wilson is proposing creating more formalized career pathways from logistics to marine operations to drive the port economy and help transition to low-emission practices. Overall, Wilson put together a thoughtful campaign, with economic development and sustainability at its core.

Although Randy Wilson may not hold as many endorsements as the incumbent, he is a good choice for voters looking for new progressive leadership at the Port of Tacoma.

Last updated: 2025-07-07

Randy Wilson is running for Port Commissioner in Tacoma, District 1. Wilson is a Democrat who has experience in international business trade, particularly in the Japanese market.

Wilson's campaign is prioritizing a strong workforce, environmental protections, and and community collaboration on the Port. He lays out a 4 year plan focused on promoting growth and sustainability. If elected, Wilson is proposing creating more formalized career pathways from logistics to marine operations to drive the port economy and help transition to low-emission practices. Overall, Wilson put together a thoughtful campaign, with economic development and sustainability at its core.

Although Randy Wilson may not hold as many endorsements as the incumbent, he is a good choice for voters looking for new progressive leadership at the Port of Tacoma.

Last updated: 2025-07-07

Other Candidates

Former Gig Harbor city council member Tim Payne is also running for the Port of Tacoma, representing District 1. Payne was on the council for 12 years, according to his Twitter account.

Payne's campaign is prioritizing the expansion of job opportunities, supporting businesses, modernizing the port, and regional collaboration. Unfortunately, he does not suggest any specific strategies or policies he would advocate for if elected. Additionally, Payne's previous association with the conservative group, Opportunity for Washington, indicates a rightward lean in his priorities.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

Former Gig Harbor city council member Tim Payne is also running for the Port of Tacoma, representing District 1. Payne was on the council for 12 years, according to his Twitter account.

Payne's campaign is prioritizing the expansion of job opportunities, supporting businesses, modernizing the port, and regional collaboration. Unfortunately, he does not suggest any specific strategies or policies he would advocate for if elected. Additionally, Payne's previous association with the conservative group, Opportunity for Washington, indicates a rightward lean in his priorities.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

Cyrus Donato is running for Tacoma Port Commissioner, District 4. Donato is currently the Puget Sound Inspector for the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF). He also serves on the Washington Advisory Committee on Trafficking (WashACT), during which he fought against labor exploitation and human trafficking in the maritime industry.

If elected, Donato will prioritize growing cargo, environmental accountability, and improving public trust through ethical governance. He is a proponent of reducing congestion and pollution in the Port's systems and wants to prioritize the use of clean technology to achieve this goal. He also recognized the Puyallup Tribe's land and wants to build more local partnerships in the decision-making process.

Donato is a vocal advocate for workers' rights in the fishing industry, with a particular focus on protecting immigrants. In 2023, he was part of the team that fought for a crew of Filipino fishermen who were trapped aboard fishing vessels for almost 2 months in Westport. The crew was stranded by their abusive employers who refused to pay them wages and kept them separated from their families. Eventually, the crew was rescued and given temporary visas to assist with the investigation into the crimes of their bosses.

While we would like to see some more detailed policy proposals, Cyrus Donato is clearly a progressive and passionate advocate for workers' rights. He is our choice for Tacoma Port Commissioner, District 4.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

Cyrus Donato is running for Tacoma Port Commissioner, District 4. Donato is currently the Puget Sound Inspector for the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF). He also serves on the Washington Advisory Committee on Trafficking (WashACT), during which he fought against labor exploitation and human trafficking in the maritime industry.

If elected, Donato will prioritize growing cargo, environmental accountability, and improving public trust through ethical governance. He is a proponent of reducing congestion and pollution in the Port's systems and wants to prioritize the use of clean technology to achieve this goal. He also recognized the Puyallup Tribe's land and wants to build more local partnerships in the decision-making process.

Donato is a vocal advocate for workers' rights in the fishing industry, with a particular focus on protecting immigrants. In 2023, he was part of the team that fought for a crew of Filipino fishermen who were trapped aboard fishing vessels for almost 2 months in Westport. The crew was stranded by their abusive employers who refused to pay them wages and kept them separated from their families. Eventually, the crew was rescued and given temporary visas to assist with the investigation into the crimes of their bosses.

While we would like to see some more detailed policy proposals, Cyrus Donato is clearly a progressive and passionate advocate for workers' rights. He is our choice for Tacoma Port Commissioner, District 4.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

Dan Knox is running for Port Commissioner in Tacoma, District 4. Throughout his campaign website, Knox insists that he is not a career politician. His platform includes creating union jobs and advocating for living wages with good benefits. Additionally, he acknowledges the Puyallup tribe and their ancestral land, on which the Port sits. He supports government-to-government collaborations when making decisions.

In this race, we lean towards Cyrus Donato for Port Commissioner in Tacoma, District 4 because of his demonstrated track record of advocacy.

Last updated: 2025-06-30

Dan Knox is running for Port Commissioner in Tacoma, District 4. Throughout his campaign website, Knox insists that he is not a career politician. His platform includes creating union jobs and advocating for living wages with good benefits. Additionally, he acknowledges the Puyallup tribe and their ancestral land, on which the Port sits. He supports government-to-government collaborations when making decisions.

In this race, we lean towards Cyrus Donato for Port Commissioner in Tacoma, District 4 because of his demonstrated track record of advocacy.

Last updated: 2025-06-30

Other Candidates

Former Republican state lawmaker JT Wilcox is running for the Port of Tacoma Commission, District 4 seat. Wilcox stepped down from his Legislative District 2 seat earlier this year, where he had served since 2010 as a ranking conservative. Professionally, he’s worked for a lumber company, in self-employed consulting, and as the director of operations for Wilcox Farms.

Wilcox is a staunch conservative who previously organized a ballot measure to eliminate Washington’s sexual health education, opposed legislation that keeps our community safe by instituting commonsense gun safety measures and environmental protections, and has been a consistent obstacle to rebalancing our tax code. In his bid for the port commission, Wilcox is demonstrating a similar set of values, including suggesting that Tacoma voters put him in power because his family’s farm business is a local employer. He brings a business lens to port leadership, but we know that our community thrives when leaders view this commission as an opportunity to strengthen workers’ rights, environmental protections, and community investment. Wilcox is not a progressive choice for the Port of Tacoma.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

Former Republican state lawmaker JT Wilcox is running for the Port of Tacoma Commission, District 4 seat. Wilcox stepped down from his Legislative District 2 seat earlier this year, where he had served since 2010 as a ranking conservative. Professionally, he’s worked for a lumber company, in self-employed consulting, and as the director of operations for Wilcox Farms.

Wilcox is a staunch conservative who previously organized a ballot measure to eliminate Washington’s sexual health education, opposed legislation that keeps our community safe by instituting commonsense gun safety measures and environmental protections, and has been a consistent obstacle to rebalancing our tax code. In his bid for the port commission, Wilcox is demonstrating a similar set of values, including suggesting that Tacoma voters put him in power because his family’s farm business is a local employer. He brings a business lens to port leadership, but we know that our community thrives when leaders view this commission as an opportunity to strengthen workers’ rights, environmental protections, and community investment. Wilcox is not a progressive choice for the Port of Tacoma.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

City Races

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

Auburn Mayor

Nancy Backus is seeking re-election for Auburn Mayor. Backus first assumed this position in 2014 as the first woman elected Auburn Mayor and is currently serving her third term.

In her re-election campaign, Backus continues to prioritize housing, public safety, transportation, and other key issues. According to her website, Backus stated that she and the council will continue to invest in improved transportation infrastructure, attract businesses and create good-paying jobs, adjust zoning to accommodate more affordable homes, and prioritize environmental responsibility.

Nancy Backus has not always been the most progressive voice. In 2018, she extensively applauded the efforts of a required-labor homeless shelter, saying, "It’s really holding everyone accountable for their actions in the homeless situation, and that is from the funders, to the service providers, to those receiving services." A comment like this suggests that those experiencing homelessness and/or addiction need to earn their treatment, despite facing circumstances out of their control. She also said she doesn't "believe in hand-outs" but rather "a hand-up to those who are looking for a way to move forward."

While we disagree with Backus on some important issues, she has earned strong support from community leaders and elected officials. We lean towards Nancy Backus for a fourth term as Mayor of Auburn.

Last updated: 2025-07-01

Nancy Backus is seeking re-election for Auburn Mayor. Backus first assumed this position in 2014 as the first woman elected Auburn Mayor and is currently serving her third term.

In her re-election campaign, Backus continues to prioritize housing, public safety, transportation, and other key issues. According to her website, Backus stated that she and the council will continue to invest in improved transportation infrastructure, attract businesses and create good-paying jobs, adjust zoning to accommodate more affordable homes, and prioritize environmental responsibility.

Nancy Backus has not always been the most progressive voice. In 2018, she extensively applauded the efforts of a required-labor homeless shelter, saying, "It’s really holding everyone accountable for their actions in the homeless situation, and that is from the funders, to the service providers, to those receiving services." A comment like this suggests that those experiencing homelessness and/or addiction need to earn their treatment, despite facing circumstances out of their control. She also said she doesn't "believe in hand-outs" but rather "a hand-up to those who are looking for a way to move forward."

While we disagree with Backus on some important issues, she has earned strong support from community leaders and elected officials. We lean towards Nancy Backus for a fourth term as Mayor of Auburn.

Last updated: 2025-07-01

Endorsed By: King County Democrats

Other Candidates

Yolanda Trout is challenging incumbent Nancy Backus for Auburn Mayor. She has been a city council member in Auburn since 2014 and currently serves as the Chair of the Wellness Committee.

In her time on the city council, Trout tends to vote more conservatively. In 2024, she voted to remove language from the city's camping ordinance that allowed city employees to charge unhoused folks with a misdemeanor without offering them alternative shelter options first. Additionally, some conservative candidates and current officers endorsed Trout, such as Peter Kwon, Conrad Lee, Susan Honda, and Phil Fortunato. These endorsements are concerning and could signal a more conservative lean.

Her campaign for mayor prioritizes community engagement, public safety, economic revitalization, youth engagement, and transparency. Her campaign website lacks specific policy proposals she supports and/or intends to implement if elected. Additionally, her approach to issues like public safety has a conservative tone.

Ronnie Morgan is also running for mayor of Auburn. According to his voter pamphlet bio, Morgan prioritizes increasing affordable and workforce housing, reducing crime, and strictly enforcing laws. He does not provide further details on the policies he would support to achieve his campaign priorities.

Last updated: 2025-07-02

Yolanda Trout is challenging incumbent Nancy Backus for Auburn Mayor. She has been a city council member in Auburn since 2014 and currently serves as the Chair of the Wellness Committee.

In her time on the city council, Trout tends to vote more conservatively. In 2024, she voted to remove language from the city's camping ordinance that allowed city employees to charge unhoused folks with a misdemeanor without offering them alternative shelter options first. Additionally, some conservative candidates and current officers endorsed Trout, such as Peter Kwon, Conrad Lee, Susan Honda, and Phil Fortunato. These endorsements are concerning and could signal a more conservative lean.

Her campaign for mayor prioritizes community engagement, public safety, economic revitalization, youth engagement, and transparency. Her campaign website lacks specific policy proposals she supports and/or intends to implement if elected. Additionally, her approach to issues like public safety has a conservative tone.

Ronnie Morgan is also running for mayor of Auburn. According to his voter pamphlet bio, Morgan prioritizes increasing affordable and workforce housing, reducing crime, and strictly enforcing laws. He does not provide further details on the policies he would support to achieve his campaign priorities.

Last updated: 2025-07-02

Auburn City Council

Erica Tomas is running for Auburn City Council, Position 4. Tomas is a union member who worked for the State of Washington in the Department of Health. As an epidemiologist, she worked in several social programs, including WIC and SNAP-ED.

Tomas' campaign is prioritizing affordable housing, expanding transit, and attracting union-represented jobs. Although her website is brief, she supports infrastructure that allows for increased housing density. She also supports expanding transit options and increasing investment in community services.

We appreciate her background in public health services, as well as her progressive solutions to the city's challenges. We recommend voting for Erica Tomas for Auburn City Council, Position 4.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

Erica Tomas is running for Auburn City Council, Position 4. Tomas is a union member who worked for the State of Washington in the Department of Health. As an epidemiologist, she worked in several social programs, including WIC and SNAP-ED.

Tomas' campaign is prioritizing affordable housing, expanding transit, and attracting union-represented jobs. Although her website is brief, she supports infrastructure that allows for increased housing density. She also supports expanding transit options and increasing investment in community services.

We appreciate her background in public health services, as well as her progressive solutions to the city's challenges. We recommend voting for Erica Tomas for Auburn City Council, Position 4.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

Endorsed By: King County Democrats

James Jeyaraj is running for Auburn City Council, Position 6. Jeyaraj first joined the Auburn Council in 2020, serving in Position 3. He made history as Auburn's first Indian-American immigrant to serve on the city council. He has worked in aerospace both at large companies and at nonprofits. In his public service career, he has volunteered in the community and served on the Parks and Recreation Board.

On the council, Jeyaraj has focused on delivering quality services and fostering community leadership in the city. One of his progressive accomplishments was bringing forward a resolution to affirm abortion access in Auburn after Roe v. Wade was overturned. In his current campaign, Jeyaraj is prioritizing improvements in public safety, affordable housing, economic development, and community engagement. In a questionnaire published by the 31st District Democrats, Jeyaraj said he supported zoning reforms to prevent displacement and remove barriers to housing access. He also expressed support for police accountability and reform, gun safety policies, and the right of workers to form and join unions.

We recommend voting for James Jeyaraj for Auburn City Council, Position 6.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

James Jeyaraj is running for Auburn City Council, Position 6. Jeyaraj first joined the Auburn Council in 2020, serving in Position 3. He made history as Auburn's first Indian-American immigrant to serve on the city council. He has worked in aerospace both at large companies and at nonprofits. In his public service career, he has volunteered in the community and served on the Parks and Recreation Board.

On the council, Jeyaraj has focused on delivering quality services and fostering community leadership in the city. One of his progressive accomplishments was bringing forward a resolution to affirm abortion access in Auburn after Roe v. Wade was overturned. In his current campaign, Jeyaraj is prioritizing improvements in public safety, affordable housing, economic development, and community engagement. In a questionnaire published by the 31st District Democrats, Jeyaraj said he supported zoning reforms to prevent displacement and remove barriers to housing access. He also expressed support for police accountability and reform, gun safety policies, and the right of workers to form and join unions.

We recommend voting for James Jeyaraj for Auburn City Council, Position 6.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

Endorsed By: 30th Legislative District Democrats, 31st Legislative District Democrats

Other Candidates

Two candidates are challenging Jeyaraj for Auburn City Council, Position 6: Lisa Stirgus and Cobi Clark. Neither matches Jeyaraj's progressive values and demonstrated track record of community service.

Lisa Stirgus is running to retain her seat, to which she was appointed in April 2025 to replace former city council member Larry Brown. Stirgus is campaigning for community and public safety as well as cleaner public spaces. While her platform is somewhat vague and lacks detailed policy proposals, she appears to lean more moderate. She previously campaigned for a strong police force that could deliver "inclusive and equitable service," but did not elaborate on what that meant. She also campaigned to connect people to city resources and support local businesses, but did not outline any specific policy goals.

Cobi Clark is a lifelong South Seattle resident and currently a real estate broker. According to his website bio, he recently completed his capstone project, conducting policy research and analysis for Washington Republican Senator Jeff Wilson.

Clark's priorities include affordable housing, civil rights, and economic development. He proposed zoning empty parking lots and distressed commercial areas for high-density housing, "ideally for purchase rather than rent." His other priorities include civil rights and economic development, however those plans were less detailed. Cobi Clark's ambiguous platform and recent work for a Republican Senator indicate his priorities may lean more moderate to conservative.

James Jeyaraj is the best choice for Auburn City Council, Position 6.

Last updated: 2025-06-30

Two candidates are challenging Jeyaraj for Auburn City Council, Position 6: Lisa Stirgus and Cobi Clark. Neither matches Jeyaraj's progressive values and demonstrated track record of community service.

Lisa Stirgus is running to retain her seat, to which she was appointed in April 2025 to replace former city council member Larry Brown. Stirgus is campaigning for community and public safety as well as cleaner public spaces. While her platform is somewhat vague and lacks detailed policy proposals, she appears to lean more moderate. She previously campaigned for a strong police force that could deliver "inclusive and equitable service," but did not elaborate on what that meant. She also campaigned to connect people to city resources and support local businesses, but did not outline any specific policy goals.

Cobi Clark is a lifelong South Seattle resident and currently a real estate broker. According to his website bio, he recently completed his capstone project, conducting policy research and analysis for Washington Republican Senator Jeff Wilson.

Clark's priorities include affordable housing, civil rights, and economic development. He proposed zoning empty parking lots and distressed commercial areas for high-density housing, "ideally for purchase rather than rent." His other priorities include civil rights and economic development, however those plans were less detailed. Cobi Clark's ambiguous platform and recent work for a Republican Senator indicate his priorities may lean more moderate to conservative.

James Jeyaraj is the best choice for Auburn City Council, Position 6.

Last updated: 2025-06-30

Federal Way Mayor

Saudia Abdullah is running for Mayor of Federal Way. She has 22 years of experience in criminal justice and public safety, with a significant focus on corrections and re-entry services. Abdullah touts her experience ensuring King County's compliance with the Tiffany Hill Act as a step to protect domestic violence survivors. She is also a community organizer who served as the Former Chair of the Diversity Commission for the City of Federal Way, advocating for equitable policies.

In our interview, Abdullah highlighted public safety, community resources, and housing action as her top 3 priorities. With her extensive background in criminal justice, Abdullah acknowledges the need for alternatives to over-policing and provides resources to help those struggling. She criticized the current council's ban on pushing shopping carts on the streets, recognizing its unnecessary criminalization of the city's unhoused population. She even went as far as personally providing wagons to help circumvent frivolous arrests of unhoused people.

Abdullah supports building more crisis centers and shelters within Federal Way. She proposed a one-stop shop that provides transitional housing and addiction treatment services in a single location, aiming to reduce barriers to care. She also recognizes the diversity of Federal Way, with more than 23 first languages spoken in the city. Yet, the city lacks equitable communication that includes multi-lingual residents, creating further language barriers. If elected, Abdullah plans to implement an equity tool that examines the city's practices to ensure accessibility for all residents.

Saudia Abdullah is clearly a compassionate and knowledgeable leader who is in tune with her community's needs. She has earned your vote for Mayor of Federal Way.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

Saudia Abdullah is running for Mayor of Federal Way. She has 22 years of experience in criminal justice and public safety, with a significant focus on corrections and re-entry services. Abdullah touts her experience ensuring King County's compliance with the Tiffany Hill Act as a step to protect domestic violence survivors. She is also a community organizer who served as the Former Chair of the Diversity Commission for the City of Federal Way, advocating for equitable policies.

In our interview, Abdullah highlighted public safety, community resources, and housing action as her top 3 priorities. With her extensive background in criminal justice, Abdullah acknowledges the need for alternatives to over-policing and provides resources to help those struggling. She criticized the current council's ban on pushing shopping carts on the streets, recognizing its unnecessary criminalization of the city's unhoused population. She even went as far as personally providing wagons to help circumvent frivolous arrests of unhoused people.

Abdullah supports building more crisis centers and shelters within Federal Way. She proposed a one-stop shop that provides transitional housing and addiction treatment services in a single location, aiming to reduce barriers to care. She also recognizes the diversity of Federal Way, with more than 23 first languages spoken in the city. Yet, the city lacks equitable communication that includes multi-lingual residents, creating further language barriers. If elected, Abdullah plans to implement an equity tool that examines the city's practices to ensure accessibility for all residents.

Saudia Abdullah is clearly a compassionate and knowledgeable leader who is in tune with her community's needs. She has earned your vote for Mayor of Federal Way.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

Endorsed By: M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO , Alliance for Gun Responsibility

Other Candidates

Three other candidates are running for Mayor of Federal Way: incumbent Jim Ferrell, Susan Honda, and Chris D. Chung.

Ferrell is a three-time member of the Federal Way City Council and was a prosecutor in Renton before later becoming a King County senior deputy prosecutor. Ferrell has been a conservative figure in Federal Way for over a decade, with crime and heavy policing at the forefront of his work. Ferrell appeared at a press conference with Seattle Police Officer Guild leader Mike Solan, who is known for defending the Seattle officers who participated in the January 6th insurrection. During Ferrell's time as mayor, the Federal Way Police Department had multiple instances of officers using excessive force and behaving inappropriately, including a controversial video posted by an officer that made national news in 2022.

In response to a shooting that left a 2-year-old boy dead, Ferrell hired more police officers, rather than implement gun safety tactics. In 2024, Ferrell touted a 400% increase in drug arrests and said that "change in behavior starts with getting people into treatment via the justice system." While one of his priorities is improving "quality of life" in Federal Way, he boasted the efforts of the Special Operations Unit to "dismantle unlawful encampments" and has made no mention of addressing the affordable housing crisis.

Susan Honda was the Deputy Mayor of Federal Way before the position was eliminated in 2024. First elected in 2011, Honda has spent her time on the council focusing on criminalizing homelessness by banning the use of shopping carts on sidewalks, which will cost taxpayers $250,000 annually. It does not solve the underlying causes of homelessness and unnecessarily punishes the poor by subjecting them to a $50 fine. In 2023, the 30th LD Republicans endorsed Honda for Federal Way City Council, which is indicative of her voting record and priorities on the council.

Chris D. Chung previously ran in 2024 as a Democrat for Insurance Commissioner but lost in the primary. He has not released a campaign platform as of late June.

Saudia Abdullah is the clear progressive choice for Mayor of Federal Way.

Last updated: 2025-06-30

Three other candidates are running for Mayor of Federal Way: incumbent Jim Ferrell, Susan Honda, and Chris D. Chung.

Ferrell is a three-time member of the Federal Way City Council and was a prosecutor in Renton before later becoming a King County senior deputy prosecutor. Ferrell has been a conservative figure in Federal Way for over a decade, with crime and heavy policing at the forefront of his work. Ferrell appeared at a press conference with Seattle Police Officer Guild leader Mike Solan, who is known for defending the Seattle officers who participated in the January 6th insurrection. During Ferrell's time as mayor, the Federal Way Police Department had multiple instances of officers using excessive force and behaving inappropriately, including a controversial video posted by an officer that made national news in 2022.

In response to a shooting that left a 2-year-old boy dead, Ferrell hired more police officers, rather than implement gun safety tactics. In 2024, Ferrell touted a 400% increase in drug arrests and said that "change in behavior starts with getting people into treatment via the justice system." While one of his priorities is improving "quality of life" in Federal Way, he boasted the efforts of the Special Operations Unit to "dismantle unlawful encampments" and has made no mention of addressing the affordable housing crisis.

Susan Honda was the Deputy Mayor of Federal Way before the position was eliminated in 2024. First elected in 2011, Honda has spent her time on the council focusing on criminalizing homelessness by banning the use of shopping carts on sidewalks, which will cost taxpayers $250,000 annually. It does not solve the underlying causes of homelessness and unnecessarily punishes the poor by subjecting them to a $50 fine. In 2023, the 30th LD Republicans endorsed Honda for Federal Way City Council, which is indicative of her voting record and priorities on the council.

Chris D. Chung previously ran in 2024 as a Democrat for Insurance Commissioner but lost in the primary. He has not released a campaign platform as of late June.

Saudia Abdullah is the clear progressive choice for Mayor of Federal Way.

Last updated: 2025-06-30

Federal Way City Council

Nathan Orth is running for Federal Way City Council, Position 2. According to his website, Orth worked at a logistics company for over 20 years and currently lives in Federal Way with his family.

Orth is running a relatively progressive campaign focused on the economy, cannabis, public safety, housing, and transportation. While some of his issue areas lack focus, he does propose some progressive solutions, such as transit-oriented housing, increasing density, and re-evaluating the root causes of crime to help deter it from the community.

While we would like to see his campaign a bit more focused and detailed, Nathan Orth seems to be on the right track to implement more progressive solutions than his two conservative-leaning opponents. In this low-information race, we lean towards voting for Nathan Orth for Federal Way City Council, Position 2.

Last updated: 2025-07-08

Nathan Orth is running for Federal Way City Council, Position 2. According to his website, Orth worked at a logistics company for over 20 years and currently lives in Federal Way with his family.

Orth is running a relatively progressive campaign focused on the economy, cannabis, public safety, housing, and transportation. While some of his issue areas lack focus, he does propose some progressive solutions, such as transit-oriented housing, increasing density, and re-evaluating the root causes of crime to help deter it from the community.

While we would like to see his campaign a bit more focused and detailed, Nathan Orth seems to be on the right track to implement more progressive solutions than his two conservative-leaning opponents. In this low-information race, we lean towards voting for Nathan Orth for Federal Way City Council, Position 2.

Last updated: 2025-07-08