1st Congressional District
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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.
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
Legislative Races
Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below legislative races on your ballot.
41st Legislative District
Rep. Janice Zahn is running to retain Position 1 representing the 41st Legislative District. Zahn emigrated from Hong Kong as a child and has dedicated her adult life to stewarding public infrastructure and services. She is the chief engineer for the Port of Seattle and served on the Bellevue City Council until her appointment to the Legislature in January.
Zahn has been a consistent and outspoken progressive leader in our community. In our interview, she shared that her priorities include supporting affordable housing, paid family leave, efficient project management, and protecting public education for students. She approaches policy with an eye on equity and wants to "help those who are furthest from power to create a level playing field for them to advocate for themselves."
One of Zahn's proudest accomplishments during her time on the Bellevue City Council was the development and implementation of a safe parking program. The program supported approximately 60 children experiencing housing instability by providing a safe space for families to park their cars, rest, study, and have a meal. The program particularly supported single working moms, helping them find their own stability and move into transitional housing.
Janice Zahn is a caring and compassionate leader who has hosted over 250 constituent meetings to hear their concerns. She has earned your vote for Position 1 representing the 41st Legislative District.
Last updated: 2025-07-08
Rep. Janice Zahn is running to retain Position 1 representing the 41st Legislative District. Zahn emigrated from Hong Kong as a child and has dedicated her adult life to stewarding public infrastructure and services. She is the chief engineer for the Port of Seattle and served on the Bellevue City Council until her appointment to the Legislature in January.
Zahn has been a consistent and outspoken progressive leader in our community. In our interview, she shared that her priorities include supporting affordable housing, paid family leave, efficient project management, and protecting public education for students. She approaches policy with an eye on equity and wants to "help those who are furthest from power to create a level playing field for them to advocate for themselves."
One of Zahn's proudest accomplishments during her time on the Bellevue City Council was the development and implementation of a safe parking program. The program supported approximately 60 children experiencing housing instability by providing a safe space for families to park their cars, rest, study, and have a meal. The program particularly supported single working moms, helping them find their own stability and move into transitional housing.
Janice Zahn is a caring and compassionate leader who has hosted over 250 constituent meetings to hear their concerns. She has earned your vote for Position 1 representing the 41st Legislative District.
Last updated: 2025-07-08
Rep. Janice Zahn is running to retain Position 1 representing the 41st Legislative District. Zahn emigrated from Hong Kong as a child and has dedicated her adult life to stewarding public infrastructure and services. She is the chief engineer for the Port of Seattle and served on the Bellevue City Council until her appointment to the Legislature in January.
Zahn has been a consistent and outspoken progressive leader in our community. In our interview, she shared that her priorities include supporting affordable housing, paid family leave, efficient project management, and protecting public education for students. She approaches policy with an eye on equity and wants to "help those who are furthest from power to create a level playing field for them to advocate for themselves."
One of Zahn's proudest accomplishments during her time on the Bellevue City Council was the development and implementation of a safe parking program. The program supported approximately 60 children experiencing housing instability by providing a safe space for families to park their cars, rest, study, and have a meal. The program particularly supported single working moms, helping them find their own stability and move into transitional housing.
Janice Zahn is a caring and compassionate leader who has hosted over 250 constituent meetings to hear their concerns. She has earned your vote for Position 1 representing the 41st Legislative District.
Last updated: 2025-07-08
Other Candidates
Janice Zahn is running against two candidates: Vinita Kak and John Whitney.
Kak has worked in the finance industry for over 25 years and served on the Planning Commission for the City of Newcastle.
Kak's platform includes prioritizing smart growth, fiscal responsibility, investing in education, supporting seniors, and improving public transit. While her goals have a progressive lean, her plan remains vague and unspecified. Additionally, in early 2025, Kak was part of the majority that voted to remove inclusive language from the city's planning documents. The council restored the edits in April 2025, a move that was a win for progressives. Kak's opposition to diversity and inclusion makes it clear she's not a progressive choice in this race.
Republican John Whitney is running a religious and conservative campaign, saying, "As your legislator, I will lead with love, truth, and justice, guided by a biblical worldview." His campaign primarily focuses on economic impacts, like reducing taxes and cutting government spending. Additionally, he stated that he will support law enforcement, but did not specify how he intends to do so. John Whitney's far-right values are vastly out of step with the people of the 41st Legislative District.
Zahn is the clear choice for state House from the 41st Legislative District.
Last updated: 2025-07-08
Janice Zahn is running against two candidates: Vinita Kak and John Whitney.
Kak has worked in the finance industry for over 25 years and served on the Planning Commission for the City of Newcastle.
Kak's platform includes prioritizing smart growth, fiscal responsibility, investing in education, supporting seniors, and improving public transit. While her goals have a progressive lean, her plan remains vague and unspecified. Additionally, in early 2025, Kak was part of the majority that voted to remove inclusive language from the city's planning documents. The council restored the edits in April 2025, a move that was a win for progressives. Kak's opposition to diversity and inclusion makes it clear she's not a progressive choice in this race.
Republican John Whitney is running a religious and conservative campaign, saying, "As your legislator, I will lead with love, truth, and justice, guided by a biblical worldview." His campaign primarily focuses on economic impacts, like reducing taxes and cutting government spending. Additionally, he stated that he will support law enforcement, but did not specify how he intends to do so. John Whitney's far-right values are vastly out of step with the people of the 41st Legislative District.
Zahn is the clear choice for state House from the 41st Legislative District.
Last updated: 2025-07-08
48th Legislative District
Democrat Vandana Slatter is running to retain her position representing the 48th Legislative District in the state Senate. In January, Slatter was appointed by the King County Council to replace Sen. Patty Kuderer, who won her recent election for Washington Insurance Commissioner. Slatter previously served on the Bellevue City Council as the first Indian-American city council member, as well as on the boards of organizations such as the Children's Institute for Learning Differences and NARAL Pro-Choice Washington.
In the Legislature, Slatter has built a reputation as a progressive champion for students and working people. She recently supported bills to strengthen gun safety through a number of common-sense measures, teach inclusive curricula at school, and support collective bargaining rights for workers. In previous sessions, she worked to pass legislation that funds zero-emission school buses and improves access to food assistance programs for those in our community who need them. Her appointment from the King County Council and strong community support from past campaigns confirm that she is a respected and effective progressive leader in Olympia.
We highly recommend voting to retain Senator Vandana Slatter to represent the 48th Legislative District.
Last updated: 2025-07-08
Democrat Vandana Slatter is running to retain her position representing the 48th Legislative District in the state Senate. In January, Slatter was appointed by the King County Council to replace Sen. Patty Kuderer, who won her recent election for Washington Insurance Commissioner. Slatter previously served on the Bellevue City Council as the first Indian-American city council member, as well as on the boards of organizations such as the Children's Institute for Learning Differences and NARAL Pro-Choice Washington.
In the Legislature, Slatter has built a reputation as a progressive champion for students and working people. She recently supported bills to strengthen gun safety through a number of common-sense measures, teach inclusive curricula at school, and support collective bargaining rights for workers. In previous sessions, she worked to pass legislation that funds zero-emission school buses and improves access to food assistance programs for those in our community who need them. Her appointment from the King County Council and strong community support from past campaigns confirm that she is a respected and effective progressive leader in Olympia.
We highly recommend voting to retain Senator Vandana Slatter to represent the 48th Legislative District.
Last updated: 2025-07-08
Democrat Vandana Slatter is running to retain her position representing the 48th Legislative District in the state Senate. In January, Slatter was appointed by the King County Council to replace Sen. Patty Kuderer, who won her recent election for Washington Insurance Commissioner. Slatter previously served on the Bellevue City Council as the first Indian-American city council member, as well as on the boards of organizations such as the Children's Institute for Learning Differences and NARAL Pro-Choice Washington.
In the Legislature, Slatter has built a reputation as a progressive champion for students and working people. She recently supported bills to strengthen gun safety through a number of common-sense measures, teach inclusive curricula at school, and support collective bargaining rights for workers. In previous sessions, she worked to pass legislation that funds zero-emission school buses and improves access to food assistance programs for those in our community who need them. Her appointment from the King County Council and strong community support from past campaigns confirm that she is a respected and effective progressive leader in Olympia.
We highly recommend voting to retain Senator Vandana Slatter to represent the 48th Legislative District.
Last updated: 2025-07-08
Other Candidates
Conservative Democrat Amy Walen is running for the state Senate after seeking and failing to earn the appointment from the King County Council. Walen has served in the state Legislature since 2018, when she first assumed the Position 2 seat in the House after serving on the Kirkland City Council.
In Olympia, Walen has focused on issues such as preventing animal cruelty and promoting commonsense gun safety. Unfortunately, she has been increasingly outspoken against key progressive priorities in recent years. Walen repeatedly voted against bills to limit rent increases, which will improve housing affordability for renters and seniors across the state. This year, Walen sided with Republicans against making large corporations and the wealthy pay what they owe our communities in taxes. In 2023, she was one of only two Democrats to vote against legislation that required warehouse workers for companies like Amazon to receive lunch and restroom breaks.
Walen's track record in office makes it clear that she does not share our values. Not surprisingly, she has received maximum campaign contributions from many corporate PACs and Republican donors this year. Sen. Vandana Slatter is the clear choice for the 48th Legislative District.
Last updated: 2025-06-30
Conservative Democrat Amy Walen is running for the state Senate after seeking and failing to earn the appointment from the King County Council. Walen has served in the state Legislature since 2018, when she first assumed the Position 2 seat in the House after serving on the Kirkland City Council.
In Olympia, Walen has focused on issues such as preventing animal cruelty and promoting commonsense gun safety. Unfortunately, she has been increasingly outspoken against key progressive priorities in recent years. Walen repeatedly voted against bills to limit rent increases, which will improve housing affordability for renters and seniors across the state. This year, Walen sided with Republicans against making large corporations and the wealthy pay what they owe our communities in taxes. In 2023, she was one of only two Democrats to vote against legislation that required warehouse workers for companies like Amazon to receive lunch and restroom breaks.
Walen's track record in office makes it clear that she does not share our values. Not surprisingly, she has received maximum campaign contributions from many corporate PACs and Republican donors this year. Sen. Vandana Slatter is the clear choice for the 48th Legislative District.
Last updated: 2025-06-30
Osman Salahuddin is running to be retained by voters in Legislative District 48, House Position 1. Salahuddin is a former Redmond City Council member who was appointed by the King County Council to fill Vandana Slatter's former seat. Before holding elected office, he worked as a communications and community engagement manager for King County Councilmember Sarah Perry and held several roles at a national consulting corporation.
Salahuddin’s top priority is addressing the rising cost of living in Washington. He is taking a comprehensive approach to affordability by addressing issues such as health care, housing, and childcare, so that all Washingtonians can afford the basics. In particular, Salahuddin voted to limit rent increases to 10%, which will reduce the cost of housing for renters across the state. As one of our youngest lawmakers, Salahuddin represents a part of the electorate who are often underrepresented in state legislatures.
Osman Salahuddin was an effective leader during his first session in Olympia. He has earned your vote to retain his position as the 48th Legislative District Representative.
Last updated: 2025-07-08
Osman Salahuddin is running to be retained by voters in Legislative District 48, House Position 1. Salahuddin is a former Redmond City Council member who was appointed by the King County Council to fill Vandana Slatter's former seat. Before holding elected office, he worked as a communications and community engagement manager for King County Councilmember Sarah Perry and held several roles at a national consulting corporation.
Salahuddin’s top priority is addressing the rising cost of living in Washington. He is taking a comprehensive approach to affordability by addressing issues such as health care, housing, and childcare, so that all Washingtonians can afford the basics. In particular, Salahuddin voted to limit rent increases to 10%, which will reduce the cost of housing for renters across the state. As one of our youngest lawmakers, Salahuddin represents a part of the electorate who are often underrepresented in state legislatures.
Osman Salahuddin was an effective leader during his first session in Olympia. He has earned your vote to retain his position as the 48th Legislative District Representative.
Last updated: 2025-07-08
Osman Salahuddin is running to be retained by voters in Legislative District 48, House Position 1. Salahuddin is a former Redmond City Council member who was appointed by the King County Council to fill Vandana Slatter's former seat. Before holding elected office, he worked as a communications and community engagement manager for King County Councilmember Sarah Perry and held several roles at a national consulting corporation.
Salahuddin’s top priority is addressing the rising cost of living in Washington. He is taking a comprehensive approach to affordability by addressing issues such as health care, housing, and childcare, so that all Washingtonians can afford the basics. In particular, Salahuddin voted to limit rent increases to 10%, which will reduce the cost of housing for renters across the state. As one of our youngest lawmakers, Salahuddin represents a part of the electorate who are often underrepresented in state legislatures.
Osman Salahuddin was an effective leader during his first session in Olympia. He has earned your vote to retain his position as the 48th Legislative District Representative.
Last updated: 2025-07-08
Other Candidates
Two candidates are challenging incumbent Osman Salahuddin to represent the 48th Legislative District in the Washington House of Representatives: Dennis Ellis and Ranga Bondada.
Ellis is a former Boeing employee and small business owner. He previously ran for Redmond City Council in 2021 but was defeated by Melissa Stuart. He is currently the 48th District Chair of the King County Republican Party.
Ellis said he will bring a "fresh, conservative perspective" to this position. He heavily criticized the Sound Transit East Link light rail expansion and advocated instead to focus on existing roads and bridges. Ellis also opposes the Housing First model for addressing the homelessness crisis and vaccine mandates. Dennis Ellis is clearly out of touch with the people of the 48th District.
Ranga Bondada is also running for state Representative, Position 1 in the 48th Legislative District. In June 2025, he publicly signed a pledge in support of congressional term limits. In his voter pamphlet statement, Bondada's campaign is prioritizing public school funding, improving public transit, increasing affordable housing. He is supportive of rent stabilization and wants to promote clean energy and sustainable infrastructure. Unfortunately, his campaign website does not further detail any policy proposals or solutions he would implement if elected.
Last updated: 2025-07-10
Two candidates are challenging incumbent Osman Salahuddin to represent the 48th Legislative District in the Washington House of Representatives: Dennis Ellis and Ranga Bondada.
Ellis is a former Boeing employee and small business owner. He previously ran for Redmond City Council in 2021 but was defeated by Melissa Stuart. He is currently the 48th District Chair of the King County Republican Party.
Ellis said he will bring a "fresh, conservative perspective" to this position. He heavily criticized the Sound Transit East Link light rail expansion and advocated instead to focus on existing roads and bridges. Ellis also opposes the Housing First model for addressing the homelessness crisis and vaccine mandates. Dennis Ellis is clearly out of touch with the people of the 48th District.
Ranga Bondada is also running for state Representative, Position 1 in the 48th Legislative District. In June 2025, he publicly signed a pledge in support of congressional term limits. In his voter pamphlet statement, Bondada's campaign is prioritizing public school funding, improving public transit, increasing affordable housing. He is supportive of rent stabilization and wants to promote clean energy and sustainable infrastructure. Unfortunately, his campaign website does not further detail any policy proposals or solutions he would implement if elected.
Last updated: 2025-07-10
King County
Depending on where you live, you may have the below county races on your ballot.
Two outstanding progressive leaders are running for King County Executive this year: Claudia Balducci and Girmay Zahilay. Both cite housing, public safety, and transportation as their priorities. Either would serve the very county well and provide strong leadership to help us navigate the challenges of the Trump administration.
Balducci offers extensive, distinguished experience in making government work well for all of us across a range of issues, as well as a passion for solving transportation problems. Zahilay has an impressive track record of fighting for racial and social justice. He has supported efforts to make government more inclusive and a stronger tool for supporting upward mobility and opportunities for all. Read the full recommendations below to find the candidate who is best aligned with your values and priorities.
Balducci offers extensive, distinguished experience in making government work well for all of us across a range of issues, as well as a passion for solving transportation problems. Zahilay has an impressive track record of fighting for racial and social justice. He has supported efforts to make government more inclusive and a stronger tool for supporting upward mobility and opportunities for all. Read the full recommendations below to find the candidate who is best aligned with your values and priorities.
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 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
Endorsed By: Sage Leaders
,
SEIU 775
,
UFCW 3000
,
American Federation of Teachers - WA
,
The Stranger
,
Teamsters Joint Council 28
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
Endorsed By: Sage Leaders
,
SEIU 775
,
UFCW 3000
,
American Federation of Teachers - WA
,
The Stranger
,
Teamsters Joint Council 28
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
County Council District Races
Depending on the county district you live in, you may have the following races on your ballot.
King County, District 5
There are two leading progressive candidates running for King County Council from District 5: Kim-Khanh Van and Ryan McIrvin. They currently serve together on the Renton City Council and share many policy positions. We lean slightly towards Kim-Khanh Van for King County Council because her work on immigration rights and social justice reform aligns well with the needs of the diverse communities in District 5.
Immigration attorney and Renton City Council member Kim-Khanh Van is running for the District 5 seat on the King County Council. Van has served on the Renton City Council since 2020 and unsuccessfully challenged conservative Councilmember Reagan Dunn for the District 9 seat in 2021. Van’s family settled in King County as Vietnamese refugees, and she has dedicated her legal career to providing legal aid services to immigrant communities. She co-founded AAPI Against Hate and serves in a number of other community leadership roles, including with the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project and on the mayor’s Inclusion Task Force.
On the Renton City Council, Van has supported creative housing solutions to alleviate the crisis, clean air and water policy, and equitable growth and opportunity within the city. In this race, her vision for the council seat is built on three pillars: opportunity, transparency, and safety. If elected, Van plans to invest in small businesses and workforce development, while advocating for living wages and a lower cost of living, including access to essential necessities such as rent, gas, groceries, and medicine. She also wants to ensure that South King County residents are heard and represented in county council decisions and would expand holistic crisis response in the region to make our communities safer.
We lean towards Kim-Khanh Van for King County Council due to her work on immigration rights and social justice reform, which align well with the needs of the diverse communities in District 5.
Last updated: 2025-07-08
Immigration attorney and Renton City Council member Kim-Khanh Van is running for the District 5 seat on the King County Council. Van has served on the Renton City Council since 2020 and unsuccessfully challenged conservative Councilmember Reagan Dunn for the District 9 seat in 2021. Van’s family settled in King County as Vietnamese refugees, and she has dedicated her legal career to providing legal aid services to immigrant communities. She co-founded AAPI Against Hate and serves in a number of other community leadership roles, including with the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project and on the mayor’s Inclusion Task Force.
On the Renton City Council, Van has supported creative housing solutions to alleviate the crisis, clean air and water policy, and equitable growth and opportunity within the city. In this race, her vision for the council seat is built on three pillars: opportunity, transparency, and safety. If elected, Van plans to invest in small businesses and workforce development, while advocating for living wages and a lower cost of living, including access to essential necessities such as rent, gas, groceries, and medicine. She also wants to ensure that South King County residents are heard and represented in county council decisions and would expand holistic crisis response in the region to make our communities safer.
We lean towards Kim-Khanh Van for King County Council due to her work on immigration rights and social justice reform, which align well with the needs of the diverse communities in District 5.
Last updated: 2025-07-08
Endorsed By: M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO
,
The Stranger
,
Housing Action Fund
,
King County Democrats
Immigration attorney and Renton City Council member Kim-Khanh Van is running for the District 5 seat on the King County Council. Van has served on the Renton City Council since 2020 and unsuccessfully challenged conservative Councilmember Reagan Dunn for the District 9 seat in 2021. Van’s family settled in King County as Vietnamese refugees, and she has dedicated her legal career to providing legal aid services to immigrant communities. She co-founded AAPI Against Hate and serves in a number of other community leadership roles, including with the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project and on the mayor’s Inclusion Task Force.
On the Renton City Council, Van has supported creative housing solutions to alleviate the crisis, clean air and water policy, and equitable growth and opportunity within the city. In this race, her vision for the council seat is built on three pillars: opportunity, transparency, and safety. If elected, Van plans to invest in small businesses and workforce development, while advocating for living wages and a lower cost of living, including access to essential necessities such as rent, gas, groceries, and medicine. She also wants to ensure that South King County residents are heard and represented in county council decisions and would expand holistic crisis response in the region to make our communities safer.
We lean towards Kim-Khanh Van for King County Council due to her work on immigration rights and social justice reform, which align well with the needs of the diverse communities in District 5.
Last updated: 2025-07-08
Endorsed By: M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO
,
The Stranger
,
Housing Action Fund
,
King County Democrats
Ryan McIrvin is also running for King County Council in District 5. He is currently serving his third term on the Renton City Council and is the current Director of Government and Community Relations at UW Bothell.
McIrvin's campaign is prioritizing public safety, affordable housing, and promoting sustainability. In our interview, McIrvin emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing public safety issues. He recognized the scope of safety to extend beyond police and fire, including the use of caseworkers and other first responders. McIrvin is also supportive of youth programming and solutions to address recidivism. Additionally, McIrvin served on various committees and councils dedicated to addressing the housing crisis. He hopes to implement strategies that prevent displacement and secure stable housing for all. He is also an advocate for expanding transit options and reducing urban sprawl.
Ryan McIrvin is a good choice if you're looking for a candidate who understands the nuances of public safety in the district and will push for more development around transit hubs.
Last updated: 2025-07-03
Ryan McIrvin is also running for King County Council in District 5. He is currently serving his third term on the Renton City Council and is the current Director of Government and Community Relations at UW Bothell.
McIrvin's campaign is prioritizing public safety, affordable housing, and promoting sustainability. In our interview, McIrvin emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing public safety issues. He recognized the scope of safety to extend beyond police and fire, including the use of caseworkers and other first responders. McIrvin is also supportive of youth programming and solutions to address recidivism. Additionally, McIrvin served on various committees and councils dedicated to addressing the housing crisis. He hopes to implement strategies that prevent displacement and secure stable housing for all. He is also an advocate for expanding transit options and reducing urban sprawl.
Ryan McIrvin is a good choice if you're looking for a candidate who understands the nuances of public safety in the district and will push for more development around transit hubs.
Last updated: 2025-07-03
Endorsed By: American Federation of Teachers - WA
,
King County Democrats
Ryan McIrvin is also running for King County Council in District 5. He is currently serving his third term on the Renton City Council and is the current Director of Government and Community Relations at UW Bothell.
McIrvin's campaign is prioritizing public safety, affordable housing, and promoting sustainability. In our interview, McIrvin emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing public safety issues. He recognized the scope of safety to extend beyond police and fire, including the use of caseworkers and other first responders. McIrvin is also supportive of youth programming and solutions to address recidivism. Additionally, McIrvin served on various committees and councils dedicated to addressing the housing crisis. He hopes to implement strategies that prevent displacement and secure stable housing for all. He is also an advocate for expanding transit options and reducing urban sprawl.
Ryan McIrvin is a good choice if you're looking for a candidate who understands the nuances of public safety in the district and will push for more development around transit hubs.
Last updated: 2025-07-03
Endorsed By: American Federation of Teachers - WA
,
King County Democrats
Other Progressive Candidates
Ahmad Corner is also running for King County Council from District 5. Corner grew up in tight-knit neighborhoods where community was highly regarded. He is a graduate of UW and the founder of Young Professionals of Seattle.
Corner is running a progressive campaign with inclusivity at its forefront. He is a proponent of improving affordability, community well-being, and youth development. However, in our interview with him, we were hoping to hear more concrete policy proposals that he would implement or support if elected. His website also mentions that he will fight for opportunities for all, but lacks specifics on how he plans to achieve this.
While Ahmad Corner is an enthusiastic candidate, there are other candidates in this race with more relevant experience and policy knowledge.
Last updated: 2025-07-02
Ahmad Corner is also running for King County Council from District 5. Corner grew up in tight-knit neighborhoods where community was highly regarded. He is a graduate of UW and the founder of Young Professionals of Seattle.
Corner is running a progressive campaign with inclusivity at its forefront. He is a proponent of improving affordability, community well-being, and youth development. However, in our interview with him, we were hoping to hear more concrete policy proposals that he would implement or support if elected. His website also mentions that he will fight for opportunities for all, but lacks specifics on how he plans to achieve this.
While Ahmad Corner is an enthusiastic candidate, there are other candidates in this race with more relevant experience and policy knowledge.
Last updated: 2025-07-02
Other Candidates
Attorney Steffanie Fain is running for King County Council, District Position 5. Fain has spent her decade-and-a-half-long legal career at law firms and is currently a managing partner at one in Seattle. She is also the current board president of Harborview Medical Center, the county’s public hospital, a position she has held since her first appointment in 2015. Fain went through breast cancer treatment herself and leads on the board with a lens to expand equitable access to healthcare.
Fain has yet to release a detailed campaign platform as of late June. Her website also lists public safety, affordability, and addressing homelessness as priorities, but does not provide any specific solutions to address these issues. Without detailed policy proposals, it’s unclear what her approach to these issues will be. However, she uses coded language on her website that is more common among Republicans who are skeptical of essential services. Even more concerning is her extensive list of endorsements from moderate Democrats and Republicans, which suggests she would likely lean to the right if elected. Fain is not a progressive choice in this race.
Peter Kwon, a current SeaTac City Council member, is running for King County Council, District 5. Kwon has been on the council since 2016 and served as Deputy Mayor from 2020 to 2022. He is also the founder of the Neighborhood Locking Mailbox program.
While he declares himself a true non-partisan elected official, Kwon's work on the SeaTac council often leans conservative. In 2024, Kwon spoke in favor of the FLOCK camera system as a deterrent to crime. However, the ACLU is skeptical of these cameras as its developer will not allow an independent review of its surveillance devices. Additionally, when residents of the Firs Mobile Home Park expressed concern over being pushed out by zoning changes, Kwon doubled down on the issue, saying he's "done quite a lot" to help the residents. Peter Kwon will not be a progressive voice if elected to the King County Council.
Angela Henderson is running for King County Council. As of late June, Henderson does not have a published campaign website, and their platform remains unknown. According to her voter pamphlet entry, Henderson's campaign is prioritizing accountability and access to affordable housing and healthcare. Her platform does not include specific policies that she intends to implement if elected.
Last updated: 2025-07-01
Attorney Steffanie Fain is running for King County Council, District Position 5. Fain has spent her decade-and-a-half-long legal career at law firms and is currently a managing partner at one in Seattle. She is also the current board president of Harborview Medical Center, the county’s public hospital, a position she has held since her first appointment in 2015. Fain went through breast cancer treatment herself and leads on the board with a lens to expand equitable access to healthcare.
Fain has yet to release a detailed campaign platform as of late June. Her website also lists public safety, affordability, and addressing homelessness as priorities, but does not provide any specific solutions to address these issues. Without detailed policy proposals, it’s unclear what her approach to these issues will be. However, she uses coded language on her website that is more common among Republicans who are skeptical of essential services. Even more concerning is her extensive list of endorsements from moderate Democrats and Republicans, which suggests she would likely lean to the right if elected. Fain is not a progressive choice in this race.
Peter Kwon, a current SeaTac City Council member, is running for King County Council, District 5. Kwon has been on the council since 2016 and served as Deputy Mayor from 2020 to 2022. He is also the founder of the Neighborhood Locking Mailbox program.
While he declares himself a true non-partisan elected official, Kwon's work on the SeaTac council often leans conservative. In 2024, Kwon spoke in favor of the FLOCK camera system as a deterrent to crime. However, the ACLU is skeptical of these cameras as its developer will not allow an independent review of its surveillance devices. Additionally, when residents of the Firs Mobile Home Park expressed concern over being pushed out by zoning changes, Kwon doubled down on the issue, saying he's "done quite a lot" to help the residents. Peter Kwon will not be a progressive voice if elected to the King County Council.
Angela Henderson is running for King County Council. As of late June, Henderson does not have a published campaign website, and their platform remains unknown. According to her voter pamphlet entry, Henderson's campaign is prioritizing accountability and access to affordable housing and healthcare. Her platform does not include specific policies that she intends to implement if elected.
Last updated: 2025-07-01
King County, District 7
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
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
Snohomish County, District 1
Conservative incumbent Nate Nehring is running for another term on the Snohomish County Council, where he has served since first being elected in 2017.
A staunch and well-connected Republican, Nehring has led the council with right-wing policy ideas. He has supported criminalizing addiction, empowering business interests above community needs, and halting progress on policing reforms to make our communities safer. Conservative leaders across Snohomish County and at the state level, like former gubernatorial candidate Dave Reichert, support Nehring’s bid for another term.
Unfortunately, Nehring is running unopposed in this election. We recommend writing in a progressive candidate of choice for the Snohomish County Council from District 1.
Conservative incumbent Nate Nehring is running for another term on the Snohomish County Council, where he has served since first being elected in 2017.
A staunch and well-connected Republican, Nehring has led the council with right-wing policy ideas. He has supported criminalizing addiction, empowering business interests above community needs, and halting progress on policing reforms to make our communities safer. Conservative leaders across Snohomish County and at the state level, like former gubernatorial candidate Dave Reichert, support Nehring’s bid for another term.
Unfortunately, Nehring is running unopposed in this election. We recommend writing in a progressive candidate of choice for the Snohomish County Council from District 1.
Snohomish County, District 4
Council Chair Jared Mead is running unopposed for another term in the District 4 seat on the Snohomish County Council. Mead has held a number of public service positions, including four years on the Mill Creek City Council, two years as a state lawmaker in Legislative District 44, and his most recent tenure on the county council, where he has sat since he was appointed in 2020 and retained in the next election by voters. Mead, who was born and raised in South Snohomish County, has also worked as a legislative aide and as a campaign manager.
As an elected leader, Mead has been a reliable voice on progressive issues. In the Legislature, he sponsored and passed a bill to require recycled content for bottle manufacturing, the first of its kind in the country. Mead is fighting for a local economy that allows all Snohomish residents to access the basics, like rent, groceries, prescriptions, gas, and tuition. He has worked to build relationships across bipartisan lines across the county to counteract rampant polarization.
In his re-election campaign, Mead is focusing on several key issues, including affordability, public safety, and transportation. Mead supports expanding mental health resources and violence prevention programs to enhance public safety services. He aims to expand access to public transit options and enhance pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure, promoting sustainable transportation methods. Regarding affordable housing, Mead acknowledges the need to increase the housing supply. However, we would be interested to see his approach expand to include solutions such as renter and tenant protections.
Jared Mead has earned your vote for another term on the Snohomish County Council.
Last updated: 2025-06-27
Council Chair Jared Mead is running unopposed for another term in the District 4 seat on the Snohomish County Council. Mead has held a number of public service positions, including four years on the Mill Creek City Council, two years as a state lawmaker in Legislative District 44, and his most recent tenure on the county council, where he has sat since he was appointed in 2020 and retained in the next election by voters. Mead, who was born and raised in South Snohomish County, has also worked as a legislative aide and as a campaign manager.
As an elected leader, Mead has been a reliable voice on progressive issues. In the Legislature, he sponsored and passed a bill to require recycled content for bottle manufacturing, the first of its kind in the country. Mead is fighting for a local economy that allows all Snohomish residents to access the basics, like rent, groceries, prescriptions, gas, and tuition. He has worked to build relationships across bipartisan lines across the county to counteract rampant polarization.
In his re-election campaign, Mead is focusing on several key issues, including affordability, public safety, and transportation. Mead supports expanding mental health resources and violence prevention programs to enhance public safety services. He aims to expand access to public transit options and enhance pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure, promoting sustainable transportation methods. Regarding affordable housing, Mead acknowledges the need to increase the housing supply. However, we would be interested to see his approach expand to include solutions such as renter and tenant protections.
Jared Mead has earned your vote for another term on the Snohomish County Council.
Last updated: 2025-06-27
Endorsed By: 32nd Legislative District Democrats
Council Chair Jared Mead is running unopposed for another term in the District 4 seat on the Snohomish County Council. Mead has held a number of public service positions, including four years on the Mill Creek City Council, two years as a state lawmaker in Legislative District 44, and his most recent tenure on the county council, where he has sat since he was appointed in 2020 and retained in the next election by voters. Mead, who was born and raised in South Snohomish County, has also worked as a legislative aide and as a campaign manager.
As an elected leader, Mead has been a reliable voice on progressive issues. In the Legislature, he sponsored and passed a bill to require recycled content for bottle manufacturing, the first of its kind in the country. Mead is fighting for a local economy that allows all Snohomish residents to access the basics, like rent, groceries, prescriptions, gas, and tuition. He has worked to build relationships across bipartisan lines across the county to counteract rampant polarization.
In his re-election campaign, Mead is focusing on several key issues, including affordability, public safety, and transportation. Mead supports expanding mental health resources and violence prevention programs to enhance public safety services. He aims to expand access to public transit options and enhance pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure, promoting sustainable transportation methods. Regarding affordable housing, Mead acknowledges the need to increase the housing supply. However, we would be interested to see his approach expand to include solutions such as renter and tenant protections.
Jared Mead has earned your vote for another term on the Snohomish County Council.
Last updated: 2025-06-27
Endorsed By: 32nd Legislative District Democrats
Snohomish County, District 5
Other Candidates
Republican Sam Low is seeking another term on the Snohomish County Council in District 5. Low is also a representative in the state House for Legislative District 39 and has served on both the Snohomish County Council and Lake Stevens City Council. In the Legislature, Low has been a reliable conservative vote, opposing bills to rebalance our tax code so everyone pays their share, protect tenants’ rights, and improve gun safety.
On the council, he has fought to direct public funding away from community needs and into further militarizing law enforcement. In past elections, Low has offered a more moderate right-wing alternative to extremist, MAGA opponents, and for this reason, we have supported his candidacy as a marginally better choice for Snohomish residents. However, he is far from a progressive candidate and does not represent the leadership our community needs on the county council. In this race, we recommend Democrat Kelli Johnson.
Last updated: 2025-07-09
Republican Sam Low is seeking another term on the Snohomish County Council in District 5. Low is also a representative in the state House for Legislative District 39 and has served on both the Snohomish County Council and Lake Stevens City Council. In the Legislature, Low has been a reliable conservative vote, opposing bills to rebalance our tax code so everyone pays their share, protect tenants’ rights, and improve gun safety.
On the council, he has fought to direct public funding away from community needs and into further militarizing law enforcement. In past elections, Low has offered a more moderate right-wing alternative to extremist, MAGA opponents, and for this reason, we have supported his candidacy as a marginally better choice for Snohomish residents. However, he is far from a progressive candidate and does not represent the leadership our community needs on the county council. In this race, we recommend Democrat Kelli Johnson.
Last updated: 2025-07-09
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
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
Two well-qualified candidates are running for the Port of Tacoma from District 1: incumbent John McCarthy and Randy Wilson. The two candidates would bring somewhat different values and experience to the commission. Read the full descriptions below to find the candidate best aligned with your priorities for the 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
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
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
Two progressive candidates are running for Port of Tacoma from District 4: Cyrus Donato and Dan Knox. We recommend Donato because of his strong values and policy platform.
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
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
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
Balducci offers extensive, distinguished experience in making government work well for all of us across a range of issues, as well as a passion for solving transportation problems. Zahilay has an impressive track record of fighting for racial and social justice. He has supported efforts to make government more inclusive and a stronger tool for supporting upward mobility and opportunities for all. Read the full recommendations below to find the candidate who is best aligned with your values and priorities.