City of Tacoma
Not in City of Tacoma? Find your guide.
Ballot Drop Boxes
Return Ballots By November 4
Welcome to the Fuse Progressive Voters Guide to the 2025 General election, preview edition! 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. Please share this guide with your friends and family, and remind them to vote by November 4!
We will continue adding more recommendations for candidates and ballot measures until voting begins on October 15.
Statewide Ballot Measures
SJR 8201 will grow Washington’s long-term care fund for aging people and people with disabilities, keeping premiums low, without costing taxpayers a single penny. Also known as the “Allow Investment of Long-Term Services and Supports Trust Fund Amendment," SJR 8201 is a constitutional amendment adding accountability protections to our long-term care fund, requiring that 100% of investment income be used for long-term care.
If passed, SJR 8201 would increase the state’s long-term care fund for vulnerable Washingtonians by at least $67 billion over the next 50 years by allowing the nonpartisan Washington State Investment Board to diversify investments. In the state legislature, 128 legislators voted in favor of the measure, and only 16 were opposed. Additionally, it has the support of groups such as the Washington State Nurses Association, the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters, Planned Parenthood, and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Vote APPROVED on SJR 8201 to protect and grow our state’s independent long-term care fund for aging adults and people with disabilities.
Last updated: 2025-10-03
SJR 8201 will grow Washington’s long-term care fund for aging people and people with disabilities, keeping premiums low, without costing taxpayers a single penny. Also known as the “Allow Investment of Long-Term Services and Supports Trust Fund Amendment," SJR 8201 is a constitutional amendment adding accountability protections to our long-term care fund, requiring that 100% of investment income be used for long-term care.
If passed, SJR 8201 would increase the state’s long-term care fund for vulnerable Washingtonians by at least $67 billion over the next 50 years by allowing the nonpartisan Washington State Investment Board to diversify investments. In the state legislature, 128 legislators voted in favor of the measure, and only 16 were opposed. Additionally, it has the support of groups such as the Washington State Nurses Association, the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters, Planned Parenthood, and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Vote APPROVED on SJR 8201 to protect and grow our state’s independent long-term care fund for aging adults and people with disabilities.
Last updated: 2025-10-03
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: 2025-09-30
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: 2025-09-30
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: 2025-09-30
Endorsed By: Tacoma Firefighters-IAFF Local 31
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: 2025-09-30
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: 2025-09-30
Cyrus Donato is running for Tacoma Port Commissioner, District 4. Donato is currently the Puget Sound Inspector for the International Transport Workers' Federation. He also serves on the Washington Advisory Committee on Trafficking, 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, making him our recommendation in this race.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Cyrus Donato is running for Tacoma Port Commissioner, District 4. Donato is currently the Puget Sound Inspector for the International Transport Workers' Federation. He also serves on the Washington Advisory Committee on Trafficking, 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, making him our recommendation in this race.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Endorsed By: Washington Conservation Action, Pierce County Central Labor Council
Cyrus Donato is running for Tacoma Port Commissioner, District 4. Donato is currently the Puget Sound Inspector for the International Transport Workers' Federation. He also serves on the Washington Advisory Committee on Trafficking, 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, making him our recommendation in this race.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Endorsed By: Washington Conservation Action
,
Pierce County Central Labor Council
Other Candidates
Former Republican state lawmaker JT Wilcox is running for the Port of Tacoma from District 4. 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: 2025-09-30
Former Republican state lawmaker JT Wilcox is running for the Port of Tacoma from District 4. 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: 2025-09-30
City Races
Depending on where you live, you may have the following city races on your ballot.
Tacoma Mayor
Former Tacoma City Council member Anders Ibsen is running for mayor to leverage his experience to address affordable housing and public safety. Ibsen served on the council from 2012 to 2019, including one year as deputy mayor of Tacoma, and has also served as a commissioner on the Washington State Gambling Commission.
While on the council, Ibsen supported renter protections and raising the minimum wage to $15. Ibsen wants to continue to improve housing affordability by championing policies like permitting more ADUs, converting unused government-owned land into affordable housing, and making careful changes to the city's permitting and zoning codes. He feels fixing housing and mental health is the foundation for improving homelessness, and wants to divert those who are non-violent but suffering from a mental illness from the criminal legal system. He also prioritizes improving the lives of working families, listing childcare, green workforce training, and safe routes to school at the top of his agenda.
Ibsen is distinctly more progressive than his main rival, John Hines. Ibsen has a clear stance on protecting the LGBTQ community from the overreach of the federal government and prioritizes supporting working families over conservative businesses. It's worth noting that Tacoma's system of government empowers the city manager to oversee most of the city's day-to-day operations. Anders Ibsen is the progressive choice for Mayor of Tacoma.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Former Tacoma City Council member Anders Ibsen is running for mayor to leverage his experience to address affordable housing and public safety. Ibsen served on the council from 2012 to 2019, including one year as deputy mayor of Tacoma, and has also served as a commissioner on the Washington State Gambling Commission.
While on the council, Ibsen supported renter protections and raising the minimum wage to $15. Ibsen wants to continue to improve housing affordability by championing policies like permitting more ADUs, converting unused government-owned land into affordable housing, and making careful changes to the city's permitting and zoning codes. He feels fixing housing and mental health is the foundation for improving homelessness, and wants to divert those who are non-violent but suffering from a mental illness from the criminal legal system. He also prioritizes improving the lives of working families, listing childcare, green workforce training, and safe routes to school at the top of his agenda.
Ibsen is distinctly more progressive than his main rival, John Hines. Ibsen has a clear stance on protecting the LGBTQ community from the overreach of the federal government and prioritizes supporting working families over conservative businesses. It's worth noting that Tacoma's system of government empowers the city manager to oversee most of the city's day-to-day operations. Anders Ibsen is the progressive choice for Mayor of Tacoma.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Endorsed By: Washington Conservation Action, SEIU 775, American Federation of Teachers - WA, SEIU Local 925, The Urbanist, SEIU Healthcare 1199NW, UFCW 3000, Pierce County Central Labor Council
Former Tacoma City Council member Anders Ibsen is running for mayor to leverage his experience to address affordable housing and public safety. Ibsen served on the council from 2012 to 2019, including one year as deputy mayor of Tacoma, and has also served as a commissioner on the Washington State Gambling Commission.
While on the council, Ibsen supported renter protections and raising the minimum wage to $15. Ibsen wants to continue to improve housing affordability by championing policies like permitting more ADUs, converting unused government-owned land into affordable housing, and making careful changes to the city's permitting and zoning codes. He feels fixing housing and mental health is the foundation for improving homelessness, and wants to divert those who are non-violent but suffering from a mental illness from the criminal legal system. He also prioritizes improving the lives of working families, listing childcare, green workforce training, and safe routes to school at the top of his agenda.
Ibsen is distinctly more progressive than his main rival, John Hines. Ibsen has a clear stance on protecting the LGBTQ community from the overreach of the federal government and prioritizes supporting working families over conservative businesses. It's worth noting that Tacoma's system of government empowers the city manager to oversee most of the city's day-to-day operations. Anders Ibsen is the progressive choice for Mayor of Tacoma.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Endorsed By: Washington Conservation Action
,
SEIU 775
,
American Federation of Teachers - WA
,
SEIU Local 925
,
The Urbanist
,
SEIU Healthcare 1199NW
,
UFCW 3000
,
Pierce County Central Labor Council
Other Candidates
Deputy Mayor and Tacoma City Councilmember John Hines is also running for mayor. Hines ran and lost in 2015, but ultimately persevered in 2019 and has served on the city council since. He has worked as an instructional facilitator for Tacoma Public Schools. Hines has also served in other community leadership roles, including on the Tacoma Public Library Board of Trustees, the Pierce Transit Commission, and the YWCA Board.
Hines speaks of his accomplishments in helping hundreds of people connect with services and housing, supporting emergency shelters, and improving streets and sidewalks. If re-elected, Hines would focus on public-private partnerships to revitalize downtown, expand affordable and permanent supportive housing through the city's Housing Trust Fund, and invest in core services, such as trash collection and road repair. While Hines has some positive accomplishments on the council, he's running a moderate campaign with substantial backing from corporate interests in Tacoma.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Deputy Mayor and Tacoma City Councilmember John Hines is also running for mayor. Hines ran and lost in 2015, but ultimately persevered in 2019 and has served on the city council since. He has worked as an instructional facilitator for Tacoma Public Schools. Hines has also served in other community leadership roles, including on the Tacoma Public Library Board of Trustees, the Pierce Transit Commission, and the YWCA Board.
Hines speaks of his accomplishments in helping hundreds of people connect with services and housing, supporting emergency shelters, and improving streets and sidewalks. If re-elected, Hines would focus on public-private partnerships to revitalize downtown, expand affordable and permanent supportive housing through the city's Housing Trust Fund, and invest in core services, such as trash collection and road repair. While Hines has some positive accomplishments on the council, he's running a moderate campaign with substantial backing from corporate interests in Tacoma.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Tacoma City Council
Latasha Palmer is running for the Position 6 seat on the Tacoma City Council to create stability and security for all. She serves as a founding board member for the Aya Community Land Trust, which aims to prevent displacement and build wealth for the Black community in Pierce County, and as a board member for the Hilltop Action Coalition.
Matching her community experience, Palmer is running to address the critical issue of housing, as well as safety, climate resilience, and more. Some of her priorities include facilitating ADU development by streamlining the process, advocating for social housing, and expanding community land trusts. Her emphasis and experience in reducing displacement for Tacoma residents make her unique in the races for the city council this year.
In addition, Palmer wants to see cooperative childcare organized by parents receive regulatory support, offering training, licensing, and research that can help address the overall unaffordability of childcare in the region. As a council member, Palmer would also advocate for attracting more environmentally friendly businesses to the city and connecting neighborhoods and cultural areas with accessible transportation.
During our interview, we were impressed with Palmer's demonstrated track record of civic activism and clear vision for what she hopes to accomplish in office. We lean toward Latasha Palmer for Tacoma City Council, Position 6.
Last updated: 2025-10-03
Latasha Palmer is running for the Position 6 seat on the Tacoma City Council to create stability and security for all. She serves as a founding board member for the Aya Community Land Trust, which aims to prevent displacement and build wealth for the Black community in Pierce County, and as a board member for the Hilltop Action Coalition.
Matching her community experience, Palmer is running to address the critical issue of housing, as well as safety, climate resilience, and more. Some of her priorities include facilitating ADU development by streamlining the process, advocating for social housing, and expanding community land trusts. Her emphasis and experience in reducing displacement for Tacoma residents make her unique in the races for the city council this year.
In addition, Palmer wants to see cooperative childcare organized by parents receive regulatory support, offering training, licensing, and research that can help address the overall unaffordability of childcare in the region. As a council member, Palmer would also advocate for attracting more environmentally friendly businesses to the city and connecting neighborhoods and cultural areas with accessible transportation.
During our interview, we were impressed with Palmer's demonstrated track record of civic activism and clear vision for what she hopes to accomplish in office. We lean toward Latasha Palmer for Tacoma City Council, Position 6.
Last updated: 2025-10-03
Endorsed By: American Federation of Teachers - WA, Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates, Sage Leaders, Housing Action Fund, Washington Education Association
Latasha Palmer is running for the Position 6 seat on the Tacoma City Council to create stability and security for all. She serves as a founding board member for the Aya Community Land Trust, which aims to prevent displacement and build wealth for the Black community in Pierce County, and as a board member for the Hilltop Action Coalition.
Matching her community experience, Palmer is running to address the critical issue of housing, as well as safety, climate resilience, and more. Some of her priorities include facilitating ADU development by streamlining the process, advocating for social housing, and expanding community land trusts. Her emphasis and experience in reducing displacement for Tacoma residents make her unique in the races for the city council this year.
In addition, Palmer wants to see cooperative childcare organized by parents receive regulatory support, offering training, licensing, and research that can help address the overall unaffordability of childcare in the region. As a council member, Palmer would also advocate for attracting more environmentally friendly businesses to the city and connecting neighborhoods and cultural areas with accessible transportation.
During our interview, we were impressed with Palmer's demonstrated track record of civic activism and clear vision for what she hopes to accomplish in office. We lean toward Latasha Palmer for Tacoma City Council, Position 6.
Last updated: 2025-10-03
Endorsed By: American Federation of Teachers - WA
,
Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates
,
Sage Leaders
,
Housing Action Fund
,
Washington Education Association
Other Candidates
Jessica Johnston is running to bring "practical, compassionate leadership" to the council. Johnston currently serves as the vice president of Downtown Tacoma Partnership, chair of Tacoma's Events and Recognition Committee, the city-appointed leader of the Hilltop Business Improvement Area, and chamber ambassador for the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber.
Her site details a long list of priorities to address, with the top three being public safety, equitable economic development, and mental health and addiction services. Johnston says that she is "proudly pro-business" and would try and reduce red tape for businesses if elected, though she isn't specific about what this would entail. She supports investment in non-violent crisis response teams for calls pertaining to substance abuse or mental crises. She would also invest in mobile crisis units and treatment-first programs to help those struggling on the streets. Other policy points include expanding affordable housing through mixed-income developments, advocating for more reliable public transit, and supporting living wages.
While Johnston has some laudable policy proposals, we recommend Latasha Palmer as the clear progressive choice for Tacoma City Council, Position 6.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Jessica Johnston is running to bring "practical, compassionate leadership" to the council. Johnston currently serves as the vice president of Downtown Tacoma Partnership, chair of Tacoma's Events and Recognition Committee, the city-appointed leader of the Hilltop Business Improvement Area, and chamber ambassador for the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber.
Her site details a long list of priorities to address, with the top three being public safety, equitable economic development, and mental health and addiction services. Johnston says that she is "proudly pro-business" and would try and reduce red tape for businesses if elected, though she isn't specific about what this would entail. She supports investment in non-violent crisis response teams for calls pertaining to substance abuse or mental crises. She would also invest in mobile crisis units and treatment-first programs to help those struggling on the streets. Other policy points include expanding affordable housing through mixed-income developments, advocating for more reliable public transit, and supporting living wages.
While Johnston has some laudable policy proposals, we recommend Latasha Palmer as the clear progressive choice for Tacoma City Council, Position 6.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
City of Tacoma, District #4
Two progressive candidates are running for Tacoma City Council, Position 4: Sandesh Sadalge and Silong Chhun. The two candidates bring different backgrounds and priorities to the race, though Chhun has earned more endorsements from our partner organizations. Read the full description below to find the candidate best aligned with your values.
Incumbent and small business owner Sandesh Sadalge is running for re-election to the Tacoma City Council from District 4. In addition to serving on the council, Sadalge is a member of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce and has also served as a steering committee member for the McKinley Hill Neighborhood Plan, the District 4 representative on the Tacoma Planning Commission, and on the Felician University Advisory Board, among other roles. Sadalge moved to Tacoma in 2019 and was appointed to the seat in 2024 to fill the vacancy created by the late District 4 council member Catherine Ushka's passing.
Reflecting on his appointment last year, Sadalge stated that he hoped to utilize his background in data analytics to develop data-driven solutions to issues such as gun violence and housing. So far, Sadalge has co-sponsored legislation to include more seniors in Tacoma's committees, boards, and commissions, and has worked to expand homeownership opportunities for middle-income residents through the Home in Tacoma 2 Project. He states that he will support a well-funded police service as well as accountability measures, and places a strong emphasis on supporting fellow small business owners.
As the first person of South Asian descent to serve on the council, Sadalge states he has a special focus on immigrant communities. He has worked with his fellow council members to restrict the use of city resources for "investigation and surveillance of individuals based on immigration or citizenship status without a court order."
In our interview, we were impressed by Sadalge's honesty and commitment to educating himself on the issues facing his community. He made it clear he strives to be a leader for all he represents, regardless of their political affiliation or background. Being an immigrant himself, he understood the power of representation and took extra measures to reach members of his community, particularly in breaking down language barriers.
Sandesh Sadalge is a good choice if you are looking for a candidate with extensive knowledge of housing policy and experience in public office.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Incumbent and small business owner Sandesh Sadalge is running for re-election to the Tacoma City Council from District 4. In addition to serving on the council, Sadalge is a member of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce and has also served as a steering committee member for the McKinley Hill Neighborhood Plan, the District 4 representative on the Tacoma Planning Commission, and on the Felician University Advisory Board, among other roles. Sadalge moved to Tacoma in 2019 and was appointed to the seat in 2024 to fill the vacancy created by the late District 4 council member Catherine Ushka's passing.
Reflecting on his appointment last year, Sadalge stated that he hoped to utilize his background in data analytics to develop data-driven solutions to issues such as gun violence and housing. So far, Sadalge has co-sponsored legislation to include more seniors in Tacoma's committees, boards, and commissions, and has worked to expand homeownership opportunities for middle-income residents through the Home in Tacoma 2 Project. He states that he will support a well-funded police service as well as accountability measures, and places a strong emphasis on supporting fellow small business owners.
As the first person of South Asian descent to serve on the council, Sadalge states he has a special focus on immigrant communities. He has worked with his fellow council members to restrict the use of city resources for "investigation and surveillance of individuals based on immigration or citizenship status without a court order."
In our interview, we were impressed by Sadalge's honesty and commitment to educating himself on the issues facing his community. He made it clear he strives to be a leader for all he represents, regardless of their political affiliation or background. Being an immigrant himself, he understood the power of representation and took extra measures to reach members of his community, particularly in breaking down language barriers.
Sandesh Sadalge is a good choice if you are looking for a candidate with extensive knowledge of housing policy and experience in public office.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Endorsed By: Washington Bikes, Sage Leaders
Incumbent and small business owner Sandesh Sadalge is running for re-election to the Tacoma City Council from District 4. In addition to serving on the council, Sadalge is a member of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce and has also served as a steering committee member for the McKinley Hill Neighborhood Plan, the District 4 representative on the Tacoma Planning Commission, and on the Felician University Advisory Board, among other roles. Sadalge moved to Tacoma in 2019 and was appointed to the seat in 2024 to fill the vacancy created by the late District 4 council member Catherine Ushka's passing.
Reflecting on his appointment last year, Sadalge stated that he hoped to utilize his background in data analytics to develop data-driven solutions to issues such as gun violence and housing. So far, Sadalge has co-sponsored legislation to include more seniors in Tacoma's committees, boards, and commissions, and has worked to expand homeownership opportunities for middle-income residents through the Home in Tacoma 2 Project. He states that he will support a well-funded police service as well as accountability measures, and places a strong emphasis on supporting fellow small business owners.
As the first person of South Asian descent to serve on the council, Sadalge states he has a special focus on immigrant communities. He has worked with his fellow council members to restrict the use of city resources for "investigation and surveillance of individuals based on immigration or citizenship status without a court order."
In our interview, we were impressed by Sadalge's honesty and commitment to educating himself on the issues facing his community. He made it clear he strives to be a leader for all he represents, regardless of their political affiliation or background. Being an immigrant himself, he understood the power of representation and took extra measures to reach members of his community, particularly in breaking down language barriers.
Sandesh Sadalge is a good choice if you are looking for a candidate with extensive knowledge of housing policy and experience in public office.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Endorsed By: Washington Bikes
,
Sage Leaders
Silong Chhun is challenging incumbent council member Sandesh Sadalge for the Tacoma City Council from District 4. He currently works as a digital media manager in the Office of Governor Jay Inslee, and has volunteered in many community leadership roles, such as board member for the Parks Tacoma Arts and Heritage Advisory Council, the Tacoma Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, and as a committee member for the city's Charter Review Committee.
As a Cambodian refugee who arrived in the district as a child and has lived there since, Chhun feels that his strong community roots undergird his campaign's driving belief that "we are only as strong as our most vulnerable neighbors." Chhun seeks to utilize the council position to invest in small, minority-owned businesses, make homeownership accessible to working families, and increase green spaces in underserved areas. He believes that supporting renewable energy will help create good jobs for local workers and emphasizes the importance of preventing gentrification and curbing predatory landlord practices.
In our interview, Chhun did not demonstrate a thorough understanding of policy details, even after being prompted to expand further. While his passion for immigrant justice and representation was apparent, we would have liked to hear a more detailed plan for tackling his district's most pressing issues.
Chhun has the sole endorsement of the 27th Legislative District Democrats, former governor Jay Inslee, Tacoma Education Association, and other progressive organizations. Voters interested in seeing the council take more proactive measures on immigration and more may find their candidate of choice in Silong Chhun.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Silong Chhun is challenging incumbent council member Sandesh Sadalge for the Tacoma City Council from District 4. He currently works as a digital media manager in the Office of Governor Jay Inslee, and has volunteered in many community leadership roles, such as board member for the Parks Tacoma Arts and Heritage Advisory Council, the Tacoma Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, and as a committee member for the city's Charter Review Committee.
As a Cambodian refugee who arrived in the district as a child and has lived there since, Chhun feels that his strong community roots undergird his campaign's driving belief that "we are only as strong as our most vulnerable neighbors." Chhun seeks to utilize the council position to invest in small, minority-owned businesses, make homeownership accessible to working families, and increase green spaces in underserved areas. He believes that supporting renewable energy will help create good jobs for local workers and emphasizes the importance of preventing gentrification and curbing predatory landlord practices.
In our interview, Chhun did not demonstrate a thorough understanding of policy details, even after being prompted to expand further. While his passion for immigrant justice and representation was apparent, we would have liked to hear a more detailed plan for tackling his district's most pressing issues.
Chhun has the sole endorsement of the 27th Legislative District Democrats, former governor Jay Inslee, Tacoma Education Association, and other progressive organizations. Voters interested in seeing the council take more proactive measures on immigration and more may find their candidate of choice in Silong Chhun.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Endorsed By: American Federation of Teachers - WA, Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates, The Urbanist, APACE, Sage Leaders, Washington Education Association
Silong Chhun is challenging incumbent council member Sandesh Sadalge for the Tacoma City Council from District 4. He currently works as a digital media manager in the Office of Governor Jay Inslee, and has volunteered in many community leadership roles, such as board member for the Parks Tacoma Arts and Heritage Advisory Council, the Tacoma Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, and as a committee member for the city's Charter Review Committee.
As a Cambodian refugee who arrived in the district as a child and has lived there since, Chhun feels that his strong community roots undergird his campaign's driving belief that "we are only as strong as our most vulnerable neighbors." Chhun seeks to utilize the council position to invest in small, minority-owned businesses, make homeownership accessible to working families, and increase green spaces in underserved areas. He believes that supporting renewable energy will help create good jobs for local workers and emphasizes the importance of preventing gentrification and curbing predatory landlord practices.
In our interview, Chhun did not demonstrate a thorough understanding of policy details, even after being prompted to expand further. While his passion for immigrant justice and representation was apparent, we would have liked to hear a more detailed plan for tackling his district's most pressing issues.
Chhun has the sole endorsement of the 27th Legislative District Democrats, former governor Jay Inslee, Tacoma Education Association, and other progressive organizations. Voters interested in seeing the council take more proactive measures on immigration and more may find their candidate of choice in Silong Chhun.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Endorsed By: American Federation of Teachers - WA
,
Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates
,
The Urbanist
,
APACE
,
Sage Leaders
,
Washington Education Association
City of Tacoma, District #5
Two good candidates are running for Tacoma City Council to represent District 5: incumbent Joe Bushnell and Zev Rose Cook. Both are deeply committed to the community, but would bring significantly different priorities and leadership styles to the office. Each candidate has received support from our partner organizations. However, Bushnell has earned much more support from progressive local elected officials. Read the full descriptions below to find the candidate best aligned with your values and priorities for Tacoma.
Incumbent Joe Bushnell is running for re-election to Tacoma City Council District 5. A Marine Corps veteran and former member of the Tacoma Public Utilities Board, Bushnell is serving his first term on the council since his election to the seat in 2021. He has also served as chair of the South Tacoma Neighborhood Council, chair of the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency, and chair of the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department Board of Health, among several other leadership roles in the community.
Bushnell is proud of the gains he feels the council has made in improving housing, public safety, and more during his first term. He points to the Home in Tacoma 2 and the Tenants' Rights Package as two landmark pieces of legislation that will prevent sudden, high rent increases and provide more flexible zoning opportunities to spur more home construction. Bushnell also states that the drop in response time for 911 calls and the expansion of the Community Service Officers and HOPE Team responder teams provide law enforcement with more options for responding to non-violent crime. During our interview, he cited improvements to Hosmer Street as a positive example of what can happen when leaders take a holistic view of public safety and bring together different agencies and community leaders around a shared goal.
Bushnell has earned wide support from community leaders and progressive elected officials for his re-election campaign. Bushnell is more moderate than his main opponent, Zev Cook, and took a few votes with which we disagree. Overall, he demonstrated thoughtful and responsive leadership during his first term that reflects his deep commitment to serving the local community.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Incumbent Joe Bushnell is running for re-election to Tacoma City Council District 5. A Marine Corps veteran and former member of the Tacoma Public Utilities Board, Bushnell is serving his first term on the council since his election to the seat in 2021. He has also served as chair of the South Tacoma Neighborhood Council, chair of the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency, and chair of the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department Board of Health, among several other leadership roles in the community.
Bushnell is proud of the gains he feels the council has made in improving housing, public safety, and more during his first term. He points to the Home in Tacoma 2 and the Tenants' Rights Package as two landmark pieces of legislation that will prevent sudden, high rent increases and provide more flexible zoning opportunities to spur more home construction. Bushnell also states that the drop in response time for 911 calls and the expansion of the Community Service Officers and HOPE Team responder teams provide law enforcement with more options for responding to non-violent crime. During our interview, he cited improvements to Hosmer Street as a positive example of what can happen when leaders take a holistic view of public safety and bring together different agencies and community leaders around a shared goal.
Bushnell has earned wide support from community leaders and progressive elected officials for his re-election campaign. Bushnell is more moderate than his main opponent, Zev Cook, and took a few votes with which we disagree. Overall, he demonstrated thoughtful and responsive leadership during his first term that reflects his deep commitment to serving the local community.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Endorsed By: Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates, APACE
Incumbent Joe Bushnell is running for re-election to Tacoma City Council District 5. A Marine Corps veteran and former member of the Tacoma Public Utilities Board, Bushnell is serving his first term on the council since his election to the seat in 2021. He has also served as chair of the South Tacoma Neighborhood Council, chair of the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency, and chair of the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department Board of Health, among several other leadership roles in the community.
Bushnell is proud of the gains he feels the council has made in improving housing, public safety, and more during his first term. He points to the Home in Tacoma 2 and the Tenants' Rights Package as two landmark pieces of legislation that will prevent sudden, high rent increases and provide more flexible zoning opportunities to spur more home construction. Bushnell also states that the drop in response time for 911 calls and the expansion of the Community Service Officers and HOPE Team responder teams provide law enforcement with more options for responding to non-violent crime. During our interview, he cited improvements to Hosmer Street as a positive example of what can happen when leaders take a holistic view of public safety and bring together different agencies and community leaders around a shared goal.
Bushnell has earned wide support from community leaders and progressive elected officials for his re-election campaign. Bushnell is more moderate than his main opponent, Zev Cook, and took a few votes with which we disagree. Overall, he demonstrated thoughtful and responsive leadership during his first term that reflects his deep commitment to serving the local community.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Endorsed By: Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates
,
APACE
Community organizer Zev Rose Cook is running for the Tacoma City Council, Position 5, as an outspoken progressive who wants to challenge the status quo on the council. Cook has extensive experience in the community as a shelter manager, case worker, and co-founder of the tenants' rights group Tacoma for All. She was also the co-chair of the Tacoma chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America in 2024.
Cook's priorities aim to improve the lives of everyday residents, including a policy to raise the minimum wage to at least $20.29 per hour. Considering the fact that 40 percent of Tacoma renters are struggling to make rent, Cook supports a public social housing developer that would create mixed-income homes in transit-centered, walkable neighborhoods.
During our interview, she cited the city council's unanimous opposition to the successful Tenant Rights Initiative in 2023 as evidence that the current council is out of touch. She was also critical of the council's reduction of fire, senior, and art services. She would pay for bringing more of these services back with an excessive income tax on big businesses, as well as other forms of progressive revenue. In addition, Cook said she would work to overturn the city's camping ban and redirect the funding spent on sweeps to create more shelter beds.
Cook would be a good choice for voters seeking a strong progressive voice on the Tacoma City Council who would push for sweeping changes to city policies.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Community organizer Zev Rose Cook is running for the Tacoma City Council, Position 5, as an outspoken progressive who wants to challenge the status quo on the council. Cook has extensive experience in the community as a shelter manager, case worker, and co-founder of the tenants' rights group Tacoma for All. She was also the co-chair of the Tacoma chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America in 2024.
Cook's priorities aim to improve the lives of everyday residents, including a policy to raise the minimum wage to at least $20.29 per hour. Considering the fact that 40 percent of Tacoma renters are struggling to make rent, Cook supports a public social housing developer that would create mixed-income homes in transit-centered, walkable neighborhoods.
During our interview, she cited the city council's unanimous opposition to the successful Tenant Rights Initiative in 2023 as evidence that the current council is out of touch. She was also critical of the council's reduction of fire, senior, and art services. She would pay for bringing more of these services back with an excessive income tax on big businesses, as well as other forms of progressive revenue. In addition, Cook said she would work to overturn the city's camping ban and redirect the funding spent on sweeps to create more shelter beds.
Cook would be a good choice for voters seeking a strong progressive voice on the Tacoma City Council who would push for sweeping changes to city policies.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Endorsed By: American Federation of Teachers - WA, The Urbanist, UFCW 3000, Emerge Washington, Washington Education Association
Community organizer Zev Rose Cook is running for the Tacoma City Council, Position 5, as an outspoken progressive who wants to challenge the status quo on the council. Cook has extensive experience in the community as a shelter manager, case worker, and co-founder of the tenants' rights group Tacoma for All. She was also the co-chair of the Tacoma chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America in 2024.
Cook's priorities aim to improve the lives of everyday residents, including a policy to raise the minimum wage to at least $20.29 per hour. Considering the fact that 40 percent of Tacoma renters are struggling to make rent, Cook supports a public social housing developer that would create mixed-income homes in transit-centered, walkable neighborhoods.
During our interview, she cited the city council's unanimous opposition to the successful Tenant Rights Initiative in 2023 as evidence that the current council is out of touch. She was also critical of the council's reduction of fire, senior, and art services. She would pay for bringing more of these services back with an excessive income tax on big businesses, as well as other forms of progressive revenue. In addition, Cook said she would work to overturn the city's camping ban and redirect the funding spent on sweeps to create more shelter beds.
Cook would be a good choice for voters seeking a strong progressive voice on the Tacoma City Council who would push for sweeping changes to city policies.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Endorsed By: American Federation of Teachers - WA
,
The Urbanist
,
UFCW 3000
,
Emerge Washington, Washington Education Association
Tacoma School Board
Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below school district races on your ballot.
Incumbent Director Lisa Keating is seeking another term in District 1 on the Tacoma School Board. She first joined the board in 2019, when she defeated a more conservative long-time incumbent. She founded her own LGBTQ+ youth advocacy organization, My Purple Umbrella, and was recently named executive director of the Washington State LGBTQ Commission. Her advocacy work has focused on helping LGBTQ students feel safe in schools and other community institutions, and she holds a formal credential as a DEI facilitator.
Her campaign focuses on continued protections against discriminatory policies, ensuring students' safety in schools. She is seeking a proactive approach to combatting the looming threat of losing the Department of Education and shielding students from harmful policies. Lisa Keating is the clear choice in this race and deserves your vote for the Tacoma School Board, District 1 seat.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Incumbent Director Lisa Keating is seeking another term in District 1 on the Tacoma School Board. She first joined the board in 2019, when she defeated a more conservative long-time incumbent. She founded her own LGBTQ+ youth advocacy organization, My Purple Umbrella, and was recently named executive director of the Washington State LGBTQ Commission. Her advocacy work has focused on helping LGBTQ students feel safe in schools and other community institutions, and she holds a formal credential as a DEI facilitator.
Her campaign focuses on continued protections against discriminatory policies, ensuring students' safety in schools. She is seeking a proactive approach to combatting the looming threat of losing the Department of Education and shielding students from harmful policies. Lisa Keating is the clear choice in this race and deserves your vote for the Tacoma School Board, District 1 seat.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Endorsed By: Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates
Incumbent Director Lisa Keating is seeking another term in District 1 on the Tacoma School Board. She first joined the board in 2019, when she defeated a more conservative long-time incumbent. She founded her own LGBTQ+ youth advocacy organization, My Purple Umbrella, and was recently named executive director of the Washington State LGBTQ Commission. Her advocacy work has focused on helping LGBTQ students feel safe in schools and other community institutions, and she holds a formal credential as a DEI facilitator.
Her campaign focuses on continued protections against discriminatory policies, ensuring students' safety in schools. She is seeking a proactive approach to combatting the looming threat of losing the Department of Education and shielding students from harmful policies. Lisa Keating is the clear choice in this race and deserves your vote for the Tacoma School Board, District 1 seat.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Endorsed By: Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates
Other Candidates
Pastor Caleb Fahey has struggled with addiction, housing insecurity, and incarceration in his life, but credits his faith with helping him achieve a more stable and safe life. Now, he works within his church to provide mentoring and community support. Unfortunately, in this low-information race, it appears that one of Fahey’s top priorities is the conservative dog-whistle issue of parental control, which is code for right-wing backlash against multicultural, scientific, and sexual health curriculum programming. Members of the Tacoma school district community deserve an elected leader with a deeper understanding of the issues that actually affect our students, such as equity gaps, aging infrastructure, and community safety concerns.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Pastor Caleb Fahey has struggled with addiction, housing insecurity, and incarceration in his life, but credits his faith with helping him achieve a more stable and safe life. Now, he works within his church to provide mentoring and community support. Unfortunately, in this low-information race, it appears that one of Fahey’s top priorities is the conservative dog-whistle issue of parental control, which is code for right-wing backlash against multicultural, scientific, and sexual health curriculum programming. Members of the Tacoma school district community deserve an elected leader with a deeper understanding of the issues that actually affect our students, such as equity gaps, aging infrastructure, and community safety concerns.
Last updated: 2025-09-30