Joshua "Josh" Binda is running for re-election for Lynnwood City Council, Position 3. First elected in 2021, Binda became the youngest African American ever elected in Washington state history. Prior to serving on the council, Binda was the Chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Commission for Lynnwood.
Binda's re-election campaign is prioritizing a variety of progressive solutions. Affordability is one of his top priorities, as he advocates for more affordable housing and improved public transportation. Binda takes a more holistic approach to public safety, focusing on wellness and prevention, particularly through youth and mental health services. He also supported the Lynnwood Police gun buyback program, which offered the safe removal of unwanted firearms.
Since the start of his term, Binda has faced multiple controversies and intense scrutiny from some of his colleagues and the local media. He faced challenges from his fellow council members regarding his voter registration, which was ultimately dismissed by the county auditor, as well as misuse of campaign funds. He was subject to a recall petition after it was found that he had spent $2,800 of campaign funds on personal expenses, including dental work and luxury goods. In an interview, Binda stated that he learned from his mistakes and repaid the misused funds.
Binda is the most progressive candidate in this race, but his repeated ethics and judgment issues raised concerns among many Snohomish County progressives. We hope that he continues to learn from these experiences and is more mindful of his use of public resources in the future.
Joshua "Josh" Binda is running for re-election for Lynnwood City Council, Position 3. First elected in 2021, Binda became the youngest African American ever elected in Washington state history. Prior to serving on the council, Binda was the Chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Commission for Lynnwood.
Binda's re-election campaign is prioritizing a variety of progressive solutions. Affordability is one of his top priorities, as he advocates for more affordable housing and improved public transportation. Binda takes a more holistic approach to public safety, focusing on wellness and prevention, particularly through youth and mental health services. He also supported the Lynnwood Police gun buyback program, which offered the safe removal of unwanted firearms.
Since the start of his term, Binda has faced multiple controversies and intense scrutiny from some of his colleagues and the local media. He faced challenges from his fellow council members regarding his voter registration, which was ultimately dismissed by the county auditor, as well as misuse of campaign funds. He was subject to a recall petition after it was found that he had spent $2,800 of campaign funds on personal expenses, including dental work and luxury goods. In an interview, Binda stated that he learned from his mistakes and repaid the misused funds.
Binda is the most progressive candidate in this race, but his repeated ethics and judgment issues raised concerns among many Snohomish County progressives. We hope that he continues to learn from these experiences and is more mindful of his use of public resources in the future.