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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. Please share this guide with your friends and family, and remind them to vote by August 5!
County Council District Races
Depending on the county district you live in, you may have the following races on your ballot.
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 following 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.
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. 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.
Mead referred to himself as being more right-leaning than his party, which is evidenced by certain votes and policy proposals he made during his time on the council. Earlier this year, Mead introduced the controversial Amendment 3 to the Critical Areas Regulations bill, which the conservative side of the council helped pass. His amendment faced public backlash for its lack of wildlife protections and for reducing buffers of protection around wetlands.
Additionally, Mead proposed an amendment to the Snohomish County budget that reduced funding for the Office of Social Justice and Executive Office funding after an audit found the department to be unsustainable in the long term. Fellow county council member, Strom Peterson, criticized the move, saying the council overstepped its authority.
We hope that Mead adopts more progressive positions on some key issues during his next term on the Snohomish County Council.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
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 following 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.
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. 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.
Mead referred to himself as being more right-leaning than his party, which is evidenced by certain votes and policy proposals he made during his time on the council. Earlier this year, Mead introduced the controversial Amendment 3 to the Critical Areas Regulations bill, which the conservative side of the council helped pass. His amendment faced public backlash for its lack of wildlife protections and for reducing buffers of protection around wetlands.
Additionally, Mead proposed an amendment to the Snohomish County budget that reduced funding for the Office of Social Justice and Executive Office funding after an audit found the department to be unsustainable in the long term. Fellow county council member, Strom Peterson, criticized the move, saying the council overstepped its authority.
We hope that Mead adopts more progressive positions on some key issues during his next term on the Snohomish County Council.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
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 following 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.
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. 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.
Mead referred to himself as being more right-leaning than his party, which is evidenced by certain votes and policy proposals he made during his time on the council. Earlier this year, Mead introduced the controversial Amendment 3 to the Critical Areas Regulations bill, which the conservative side of the council helped pass. His amendment faced public backlash for its lack of wildlife protections and for reducing buffers of protection around wetlands.
Additionally, Mead proposed an amendment to the Snohomish County budget that reduced funding for the Office of Social Justice and Executive Office funding after an audit found the department to be unsustainable in the long term. Fellow county council member, Strom Peterson, criticized the move, saying the council overstepped its authority.
We hope that Mead adopts more progressive positions on some key issues during his next term on the Snohomish County Council.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
Endorsed By: 32nd Legislative District Democrats
Snohomish County, District 5
Kelli Johnson is challenging Republican incumbent Sam Low for Snohomish County Council from District 5. Johnson is a Democrat with ten years of experience as an Emergency Room nurse.
Johnson's campaign aims to improve housing affordability, expand access to quality health care, and achieve a balanced budget. She supports zoning changes that allow for a variety of affordable homes that also include environmental protections. Throughout her nursing career, Johnson has been a health care advocate, most recently raising awareness of the devastating MAGA cuts to Medicaid on her Instagram.
Although Kelli Johnson's campaign could afford some more detailed policy proposals, we appreciate her health care advocacy and progressive values. We recommend her to replace Sam Low on the Snohomish County Council from District 5.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
Kelli Johnson is challenging Republican incumbent Sam Low for Snohomish County Council from District 5. Johnson is a Democrat with ten years of experience as an Emergency Room nurse.
Johnson's campaign aims to improve housing affordability, expand access to quality health care, and achieve a balanced budget. She supports zoning changes that allow for a variety of affordable homes that also include environmental protections. Throughout her nursing career, Johnson has been a health care advocate, most recently raising awareness of the devastating MAGA cuts to Medicaid on her Instagram.
Although Kelli Johnson's campaign could afford some more detailed policy proposals, we appreciate her health care advocacy and progressive values. We recommend her to replace Sam Low on the Snohomish County Council from District 5.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
Kelli Johnson is challenging Republican incumbent Sam Low for Snohomish County Council from District 5. Johnson is a Democrat with ten years of experience as an Emergency Room nurse.
Johnson's campaign aims to improve housing affordability, expand access to quality health care, and achieve a balanced budget. She supports zoning changes that allow for a variety of affordable homes that also include environmental protections. Throughout her nursing career, Johnson has been a health care advocate, most recently raising awareness of the devastating MAGA cuts to Medicaid on her Instagram.
Although Kelli Johnson's campaign could afford some more detailed policy proposals, we appreciate her health care advocacy and progressive values. We recommend her to replace Sam Low on the Snohomish County Council from District 5.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
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 occasionally supported his candidacy in the past 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: 2025-07-24
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 occasionally supported his candidacy in the past 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: 2025-07-24
Woodinville City Council
Two good candidates are running for Woodinville City Council, Position 3: Rebecca Elbaum and Amber Wise. While Wise has earned several impressive endorsements from our partner organizations, she does not appear to be running a competitive campaign as of late July. We lean toward Elbaum for Position 3.
Additionally, several candidates running in Woodinville have been endorsed by the misleading Democratic Woodinville PAC. Read below to find out more.
Additionally, several candidates running in Woodinville have been endorsed by the misleading Democratic Woodinville PAC. Read below to find out more.
Rebecca Elbaum is running for Woodinville City Council Position 3. Although a political newcomer, Elbaum is an active member of the Woodinville community and holds many progressive values.
Since 2018, Elbaum has been an avid volunteer with Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America and most recently served as the WA State Chapter Lead. In addition to being a champion for gun safety, she is campaigning for affordable housing and improved transportation services. However, we would like to see her policies regarding public safety developed further, particularly to include de-escalation training and alternatives to over-policing.
We appreciate Rebecca Elbaum's community work and advocacy, but we lean towards Amber Wise in this race due to her support from our progressive partners.
Last updated: 2025-07-29
Rebecca Elbaum is running for Woodinville City Council Position 3. Although a political newcomer, Elbaum is an active member of the Woodinville community and holds many progressive values.
Since 2018, Elbaum has been an avid volunteer with Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America and most recently served as the WA State Chapter Lead. In addition to being a champion for gun safety, she is campaigning for affordable housing and improved transportation services. However, we would like to see her policies regarding public safety developed further, particularly to include de-escalation training and alternatives to over-policing.
We appreciate Rebecca Elbaum's community work and advocacy, but we lean towards Amber Wise in this race due to her support from our progressive partners.
Last updated: 2025-07-29
Endorsed By: 1st Legislative District Democrats , King County Democrats, Alliance for Gun Responsibility
Rebecca Elbaum is running for Woodinville City Council Position 3. Although a political newcomer, Elbaum is an active member of the Woodinville community and holds many progressive values.
Since 2018, Elbaum has been an avid volunteer with Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America and most recently served as the WA State Chapter Lead. In addition to being a champion for gun safety, she is campaigning for affordable housing and improved transportation services. However, we would like to see her policies regarding public safety developed further, particularly to include de-escalation training and alternatives to over-policing.
We appreciate Rebecca Elbaum's community work and advocacy, but we lean towards Amber Wise in this race due to her support from our progressive partners.
Last updated: 2025-07-29
Endorsed By: 1st Legislative District Democrats , King County Democrats, Alliance for Gun Responsibility
Amber Wise is running for Woodinville City Council, Position 3. Wise is currently the Vice Chair of the Public Spaces Commission in Woodinville. She is also a meatcutter apprentice at PCC- Redmond.
Wise's campaign is community-centered, prioritizing engagement and collaboration. She is supportive of a more walkable and environmentally friendly downtown area that fosters relationships between community members, businesses, health care providers, and more. She also supports the proposed community center and the Eastrail Trail to expand access to nature.
While we would like to hear more about Amber Wise's plans and proposed solutions, we recognize her endorsements from our partner organizations and lean towards her for Woodinville City Council, Position 3.
Last updated: 2025-07-29
Amber Wise is running for Woodinville City Council, Position 3. Wise is currently the Vice Chair of the Public Spaces Commission in Woodinville. She is also a meatcutter apprentice at PCC- Redmond.
Wise's campaign is community-centered, prioritizing engagement and collaboration. She is supportive of a more walkable and environmentally friendly downtown area that fosters relationships between community members, businesses, health care providers, and more. She also supports the proposed community center and the Eastrail Trail to expand access to nature.
While we would like to hear more about Amber Wise's plans and proposed solutions, we recognize her endorsements from our partner organizations and lean towards her for Woodinville City Council, Position 3.
Last updated: 2025-07-29
Endorsed By: M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO, Sage Leaders, King County Democrats
Amber Wise is running for Woodinville City Council, Position 3. Wise is currently the Vice Chair of the Public Spaces Commission in Woodinville. She is also a meatcutter apprentice at PCC- Redmond.
Wise's campaign is community-centered, prioritizing engagement and collaboration. She is supportive of a more walkable and environmentally friendly downtown area that fosters relationships between community members, businesses, health care providers, and more. She also supports the proposed community center and the Eastrail Trail to expand access to nature.
While we would like to hear more about Amber Wise's plans and proposed solutions, we recognize her endorsements from our partner organizations and lean towards her for Woodinville City Council, Position 3.
Last updated: 2025-07-29
Endorsed By: M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO
,
Sage Leaders
,
King County Democrats
Other Candidates
Rachel Best-Campbell is running for re-election for Woodinville City Council, Position 3. She previously ran a more moderate platform that included expanding public green spaces, reducing traffic congestion, and opposing the Woodinville transfer station. Since joining the council in 2019, she has not been a strong progressive voice and has been particularly disappointing in her approach to climate action.
Of greater concern is that Best-Campbell is endorsed by Democratic Woodinville, a local PAC created by Jeff Lyon. The PAC's mission is "to influence the outcome of City of Woodinville elections, ballot measures, and other local government activities." While the PAC positions itself as an advocate for affordable housing and sustainable neighborhoods, it publicly opposes strategies that would support those goals. On their website, they express disdain for developers who "fail to address our community's needs while creating urban sprawl." Yet, they oppose dense housing developments downtown that would help avoid urban sprawl. Rachel Best-Campbell and the entire Democratic Woodinville slate would be an obstacle to progress for the city.
Troy Anderson is also running for Woodinville City Council, Position 3. Anderson is a member of the Woodinville Chamber of Commerce and was the Board Chair for two years. He is also on the Planning Commission supporting the 2044 strategic plan.
Anderson is prioritizing economic development and affordable housing in his campaign. He is particularly invested in attracting businesses to enhance the wine and tourism industries in Woodinville. He also hopes to expand cultural and artistic experiences for residents. Anderson is a proponent of increasing the housing supply through zoning reform and non-profit partnerships.
Troy Anderson is running a thoughtful campaign but has not earned the same level of endorsements as Wise and Elbaum in this race.
Luke Bakun is the final candidate running for Woodinville City Council, Position 3. As of late June, Bakun's website does not have a detailed campaign available, and their platform is unknown.
Last updated: 2025-07-24
Rachel Best-Campbell is running for re-election for Woodinville City Council, Position 3. She previously ran a more moderate platform that included expanding public green spaces, reducing traffic congestion, and opposing the Woodinville transfer station. Since joining the council in 2019, she has not been a strong progressive voice and has been particularly disappointing in her approach to climate action.
Of greater concern is that Best-Campbell is endorsed by Democratic Woodinville, a local PAC created by Jeff Lyon. The PAC's mission is "to influence the outcome of City of Woodinville elections, ballot measures, and other local government activities." While the PAC positions itself as an advocate for affordable housing and sustainable neighborhoods, it publicly opposes strategies that would support those goals. On their website, they express disdain for developers who "fail to address our community's needs while creating urban sprawl." Yet, they oppose dense housing developments downtown that would help avoid urban sprawl. Rachel Best-Campbell and the entire Democratic Woodinville slate would be an obstacle to progress for the city.
Troy Anderson is also running for Woodinville City Council, Position 3. Anderson is a member of the Woodinville Chamber of Commerce and was the Board Chair for two years. He is also on the Planning Commission supporting the 2044 strategic plan.
Anderson is prioritizing economic development and affordable housing in his campaign. He is particularly invested in attracting businesses to enhance the wine and tourism industries in Woodinville. He also hopes to expand cultural and artistic experiences for residents. Anderson is a proponent of increasing the housing supply through zoning reform and non-profit partnerships.
Troy Anderson is running a thoughtful campaign but has not earned the same level of endorsements as Wise and Elbaum in this race.
Luke Bakun is the final candidate running for Woodinville City Council, Position 3. As of late June, Bakun's website does not have a detailed campaign available, and their platform is unknown.
Last updated: 2025-07-24
Sarah Arndt is running for re-election to the Woodinville City Council, Position 5. She was first elected to the council in 2021 and previously served as the Chair of Woodinville's Public Spaces Commission.
Arndt's priorities include expanding transportation options, preserving the environment, and increasing access to affordable housing. During her first term on the council, she has also worked to improve transparency with the public during this rapid period of growth for Woodinville.
Sarah Arndt is a committed progressive voice and earned your vote for the Woodinville City Council, Position 3.
Last updated: 2025-07-16
Sarah Arndt is running for re-election to the Woodinville City Council, Position 5. She was first elected to the council in 2021 and previously served as the Chair of Woodinville's Public Spaces Commission.
Arndt's priorities include expanding transportation options, preserving the environment, and increasing access to affordable housing. During her first term on the council, she has also worked to improve transparency with the public during this rapid period of growth for Woodinville.
Sarah Arndt is a committed progressive voice and earned your vote for the Woodinville City Council, Position 3.
Last updated: 2025-07-16
Endorsed By: Washington Conservation Action, The Urbanist, 1st Legislative District Democrats , King County Democrats, Eastside Firefighters Local IAFF 1762
Sarah Arndt is running for re-election to the Woodinville City Council, Position 5. She was first elected to the council in 2021 and previously served as the Chair of Woodinville's Public Spaces Commission.
Arndt's priorities include expanding transportation options, preserving the environment, and increasing access to affordable housing. During her first term on the council, she has also worked to improve transparency with the public during this rapid period of growth for Woodinville.
Sarah Arndt is a committed progressive voice and earned your vote for the Woodinville City Council, Position 3.
Last updated: 2025-07-16
Endorsed By: Washington Conservation Action
,
The Urbanist
,
1st Legislative District Democrats , King County Democrats, Eastside Firefighters Local IAFF 1762
Other Candidates
Three other candidates are running for Woodinville City Council, Position 5.
Tanner Mills is a Continuous Improvement Engineer in the aerospace industry. At one point earlier in the campaign, Mills was endorsed by the deceptive "Democratic Woodinville" group, however, it appears they have withdrawn their endorsement as of late June. It is unclear why.
Mills' campaign is prioritizing affordable housing, transportation, neighborhoods, and representation. While he is supportive of some progressive solutions, such as transit-oriented housing and greener transit, Mills consistently paints the current council as having untrustworthy motives that prioritize profits over the community. He suggests that certain housing projects prioritized profit over function and "flashy projects with unclear benefits." It is unclear what he is referring to. Mills is not a progressive choice in this race.
Bobby Amiri is also running for Woodinville City Council, Position 5. According to his campaign website, Amiri has lived in Woodinville for over thirty-five years and "helped thousands of families navigate complex situations," but did not elaborate further.
Amiri is running a conservative campaign for local businesses, strengthening the police force, and promoting affordable housing. His policy proposals are somewhat vague, saying he will advocate for policies that "support local businesses" and "promote public safety," but he does not provide further details. If elected, Bobby Amiri would not be the progressive voice that Woodinville needs.
Susan Milke is the final candidate running for Woodinville City Council, Position 5. As of late June, Milke does not have a detailed campaign website available, and their platform is unknown. She is another candidate endorsed by the Democratic Woodinville PAC.
Last updated: 2025-07-24
Three other candidates are running for Woodinville City Council, Position 5.
Tanner Mills is a Continuous Improvement Engineer in the aerospace industry. At one point earlier in the campaign, Mills was endorsed by the deceptive "Democratic Woodinville" group, however, it appears they have withdrawn their endorsement as of late June. It is unclear why.
Mills' campaign is prioritizing affordable housing, transportation, neighborhoods, and representation. While he is supportive of some progressive solutions, such as transit-oriented housing and greener transit, Mills consistently paints the current council as having untrustworthy motives that prioritize profits over the community. He suggests that certain housing projects prioritized profit over function and "flashy projects with unclear benefits." It is unclear what he is referring to. Mills is not a progressive choice in this race.
Bobby Amiri is also running for Woodinville City Council, Position 5. According to his campaign website, Amiri has lived in Woodinville for over thirty-five years and "helped thousands of families navigate complex situations," but did not elaborate further.
Amiri is running a conservative campaign for local businesses, strengthening the police force, and promoting affordable housing. His policy proposals are somewhat vague, saying he will advocate for policies that "support local businesses" and "promote public safety," but he does not provide further details. If elected, Bobby Amiri would not be the progressive voice that Woodinville needs.
Susan Milke is the final candidate running for Woodinville City Council, Position 5. As of late June, Milke does not have a detailed campaign website available, and their platform is unknown. She is another candidate endorsed by the Democratic Woodinville PAC.
Last updated: 2025-07-24
James Randolph is running for re-election for Woodinville City Council, Position 7. Randolph is an active community member and previously served on the King County Site Advisory Group to oppose a new waste transfer station in Woodinville.
Randolph's re-election campaign is focused on transit and the environment. He wants to expand the bus service to connect residents to the Light Rail station, hoping it will also reduce traffic and improve affordable housing efforts.
James Randolph has been a progressive voice on the Woodinville City Council and earned your vote for Position 7.
Last updated: 2025-07-16
James Randolph is running for re-election for Woodinville City Council, Position 7. Randolph is an active community member and previously served on the King County Site Advisory Group to oppose a new waste transfer station in Woodinville.
Randolph's re-election campaign is focused on transit and the environment. He wants to expand the bus service to connect residents to the Light Rail station, hoping it will also reduce traffic and improve affordable housing efforts.
James Randolph has been a progressive voice on the Woodinville City Council and earned your vote for Position 7.
Last updated: 2025-07-16
Endorsed By: Sage Leaders, Washington Conservation Action, Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates, 1st Legislative District Democrats , King County Democrats, Alliance for Gun Responsibility
James Randolph is running for re-election for Woodinville City Council, Position 7. Randolph is an active community member and previously served on the King County Site Advisory Group to oppose a new waste transfer station in Woodinville.
Randolph's re-election campaign is focused on transit and the environment. He wants to expand the bus service to connect residents to the Light Rail station, hoping it will also reduce traffic and improve affordable housing efforts.
James Randolph has been a progressive voice on the Woodinville City Council and earned your vote for Position 7.
Last updated: 2025-07-16
Endorsed By: Sage Leaders
,
Washington Conservation Action
,
Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates
,
1st Legislative District Democrats , King County Democrats, Alliance for Gun Responsibility
Other Candidates
Brandon Finley is a flight attendant running for Woodinville City Council, Position 7. While Finley is backed by the misleading Democratic Woodinville, he lacks a detailed campaign strategy, and his platform remains unknown. In his voters' pamphlet entry, Finley said "affordable housing, traffic congestion, and overcrowded schools" are challenges brought on by progress. His unclear positions on housing raise questions about his commitment to increasing density to reduce housing costs and make Woodinville more accessible to all.
Jaren Hanson is running for Woodinville City Council, Position 7. He is a former police officer, which he says gives him "a hands-on understanding of public safety and infrastructure preservation." As of late June, Hanson lacks a detailed campaign website, but he stated that he is running to protect Woodinville from rampant traffic and overcrowding, which would only further increase the cost of living in Woodinville's already expensive neighborhoods.
Last updated: 2025-07-24
Brandon Finley is a flight attendant running for Woodinville City Council, Position 7. While Finley is backed by the misleading Democratic Woodinville, he lacks a detailed campaign strategy, and his platform remains unknown. In his voters' pamphlet entry, Finley said "affordable housing, traffic congestion, and overcrowded schools" are challenges brought on by progress. His unclear positions on housing raise questions about his commitment to increasing density to reduce housing costs and make Woodinville more accessible to all.
Jaren Hanson is running for Woodinville City Council, Position 7. He is a former police officer, which he says gives him "a hands-on understanding of public safety and infrastructure preservation." As of late June, Hanson lacks a detailed campaign website, but he stated that he is running to protect Woodinville from rampant traffic and overcrowding, which would only further increase the cost of living in Woodinville's already expensive neighborhoods.
Last updated: 2025-07-24
Northshore School Board
Two qualified candidates are running for Northshore School Board, Director, District 1: Carson Sanderson and Arun Sharma. We recommend Sanderson because of her strong support from community leaders and our progressive partner organizations.
Carson Sanderson is the board president of the HiCap Parents Council, representing North Creek High School, and is involved in her local church’s women’s fellowship. Her campaign is prioritizing a balanced budget, planning for future growth in the district, community partnerships, and legislative accountability.
While we would like to see her platform developed further to include specific proposals, Sanderson earned endorsements from the Northshore Education Association, SDCC, and the 1st District Democrats. Due to her endorsements, we recommend Carson Sanderson for Northshore School Board Director, District 1.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
Carson Sanderson is the board president of the HiCap Parents Council, representing North Creek High School, and is involved in her local church’s women’s fellowship. Her campaign is prioritizing a balanced budget, planning for future growth in the district, community partnerships, and legislative accountability.
While we would like to see her platform developed further to include specific proposals, Sanderson earned endorsements from the Northshore Education Association, SDCC, and the 1st District Democrats. Due to her endorsements, we recommend Carson Sanderson for Northshore School Board Director, District 1.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
Endorsed By: Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates, Alliance for Gun Responsibility, Snohomish County Democrats, Washington Education Association
Carson Sanderson is the board president of the HiCap Parents Council, representing North Creek High School, and is involved in her local church’s women’s fellowship. Her campaign is prioritizing a balanced budget, planning for future growth in the district, community partnerships, and legislative accountability.
While we would like to see her platform developed further to include specific proposals, Sanderson earned endorsements from the Northshore Education Association, SDCC, and the 1st District Democrats. Due to her endorsements, we recommend Carson Sanderson for Northshore School Board Director, District 1.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
Endorsed By: Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates
,
Alliance for Gun Responsibility, Snohomish County Democrats, Washington Education Association
Arun Sharma is running for Director Jacqueline McGourty’s District 1 seat on the Northshore School Board. Sharma is the founder of a local nonprofit that represents the South Asian community and works to advance equity, helping people access essential services such as housing, education, food, and health care.
Sharma's campaign prioritizes holistic development, inclusive teaching, empowered learning, and equitable funding. He is supportive of expanding college and career readiness programs as well as STEAM opportunities, special education, and technical education. He emphasizes the need for a new funding model to support critical programs like the arts, music, STEAM, and enrichment.
Arun Sharma is an active community member who would also be a reliable voice on the Northshore School Board.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
Arun Sharma is running for Director Jacqueline McGourty’s District 1 seat on the Northshore School Board. Sharma is the founder of a local nonprofit that represents the South Asian community and works to advance equity, helping people access essential services such as housing, education, food, and health care.
Sharma's campaign prioritizes holistic development, inclusive teaching, empowered learning, and equitable funding. He is supportive of expanding college and career readiness programs as well as STEAM opportunities, special education, and technical education. He emphasizes the need for a new funding model to support critical programs like the arts, music, STEAM, and enrichment.
Arun Sharma is an active community member who would also be a reliable voice on the Northshore School Board.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
Endorsed By: 1st Legislative District Democrats , King County Democrats
Arun Sharma is running for Director Jacqueline McGourty’s District 1 seat on the Northshore School Board. Sharma is the founder of a local nonprofit that represents the South Asian community and works to advance equity, helping people access essential services such as housing, education, food, and health care.
Sharma's campaign prioritizes holistic development, inclusive teaching, empowered learning, and equitable funding. He is supportive of expanding college and career readiness programs as well as STEAM opportunities, special education, and technical education. He emphasizes the need for a new funding model to support critical programs like the arts, music, STEAM, and enrichment.
Arun Sharma is an active community member who would also be a reliable voice on the Northshore School Board.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
Endorsed By: 1st Legislative District Democrats , King County Democrats
Other Candidates
Conservative candidate Brian Travis has run for this Northshore School Board, District 1 seat in both 2017 and 2021. In past campaigns, Travis has expressed strongly anti-union, homophobic, and antiquated views, including opposing support for queer and trans students. He opposes multi-cultural and inclusive programming, preferring instead a colorblind, less inclusive approach. Northshore students, parents, and staff deserve school board leaders who are in touch with the real challenges facing the school district, rather than getting caught up with MAGA distractions that seek to sow division.
Last updated: 2025-07-24
Conservative candidate Brian Travis has run for this Northshore School Board, District 1 seat in both 2017 and 2021. In past campaigns, Travis has expressed strongly anti-union, homophobic, and antiquated views, including opposing support for queer and trans students. He opposes multi-cultural and inclusive programming, preferring instead a colorblind, less inclusive approach. Northshore students, parents, and staff deserve school board leaders who are in touch with the real challenges facing the school district, rather than getting caught up with MAGA distractions that seek to sow division.
Last updated: 2025-07-24
Director Sandy Hayes is running for re-election to the Northshore School Board in District 4, where she has served since 2009. Hayes runs her own restorative justice-oriented group for criminal defense mitigation cases, working at the grassroots level to reform our criminal legal system while working to reduce overcrowding in our prisons. She formerly served as the president of, and still sits on the board of, the Washington State School Directors’ Association.
Hayes is a progressive leader on the school board with past achievements including introducing electric school buses to the fleet, launching a career day for local students, finding critical funding to build Ruby Bridges Elementary and North Creek High School, advocating for special education and students with disabilities, and increasing technology resources across the district.
Sandy Hayes has consistently been a respected progressive voice for Northshore schools and will undoubtedly bring a community-centered vision to another term on the board. We recommend Hayes for re-election to the Northshore School Board from District 4.
Last updated: 2025-07-23
Director Sandy Hayes is running for re-election to the Northshore School Board in District 4, where she has served since 2009. Hayes runs her own restorative justice-oriented group for criminal defense mitigation cases, working at the grassroots level to reform our criminal legal system while working to reduce overcrowding in our prisons. She formerly served as the president of, and still sits on the board of, the Washington State School Directors’ Association.
Hayes is a progressive leader on the school board with past achievements including introducing electric school buses to the fleet, launching a career day for local students, finding critical funding to build Ruby Bridges Elementary and North Creek High School, advocating for special education and students with disabilities, and increasing technology resources across the district.
Sandy Hayes has consistently been a respected progressive voice for Northshore schools and will undoubtedly bring a community-centered vision to another term on the board. We recommend Hayes for re-election to the Northshore School Board from District 4.
Last updated: 2025-07-23
Endorsed By: 45th Legislative District Democrats, 1st Legislative District Democrats , Snohomish County Democrats
Director Sandy Hayes is running for re-election to the Northshore School Board in District 4, where she has served since 2009. Hayes runs her own restorative justice-oriented group for criminal defense mitigation cases, working at the grassroots level to reform our criminal legal system while working to reduce overcrowding in our prisons. She formerly served as the president of, and still sits on the board of, the Washington State School Directors’ Association.
Hayes is a progressive leader on the school board with past achievements including introducing electric school buses to the fleet, launching a career day for local students, finding critical funding to build Ruby Bridges Elementary and North Creek High School, advocating for special education and students with disabilities, and increasing technology resources across the district.
Sandy Hayes has consistently been a respected progressive voice for Northshore schools and will undoubtedly bring a community-centered vision to another term on the board. We recommend Hayes for re-election to the Northshore School Board from District 4.
Last updated: 2025-07-23
Endorsed By: 45th Legislative District Democrats, 1st Legislative District Democrats , Snohomish County Democrats
Other Candidates
JoAnn Tolentino is a far-right candidate running for Northshore School Board Director, District 4. In a since-deleted Facebook post, Tolentino admitted she attended the January 6th Insurrection, referring to it as an exercise of her freedom of speech. Not surprisingly, she is recommended as the "best choice" in this race by the King County GOP. JoAnn Tolentino is an extremist and is out of touch with the needs of the Northshore School District.
Sehaj Dhaliwal is also challenging incumbent Sandy Hayes for the Northshore School Board. She is a product of the Northshore School District and is running to bring her perspective as a young leader and recent graduate. She recognizes the need to continue funding mental health services, extracurriculars, and school programs as essential services to benefit both students and teachers. Dhaliwal also brings public service experience in many fields to this role.
We appreciate Sehaj Dhaliwal's vision, passion, and progressive values. However, we would like to see more specific solutions or policies she would implement if elected. We recommend re-electing Sandy Hayes due to her progressive work on the board and her endorsements.
Last updated: 2025-07-29
JoAnn Tolentino is a far-right candidate running for Northshore School Board Director, District 4. In a since-deleted Facebook post, Tolentino admitted she attended the January 6th Insurrection, referring to it as an exercise of her freedom of speech. Not surprisingly, she is recommended as the "best choice" in this race by the King County GOP. JoAnn Tolentino is an extremist and is out of touch with the needs of the Northshore School District.
Sehaj Dhaliwal is also challenging incumbent Sandy Hayes for the Northshore School Board. She is a product of the Northshore School District and is running to bring her perspective as a young leader and recent graduate. She recognizes the need to continue funding mental health services, extracurriculars, and school programs as essential services to benefit both students and teachers. Dhaliwal also brings public service experience in many fields to this role.
We appreciate Sehaj Dhaliwal's vision, passion, and progressive values. However, we would like to see more specific solutions or policies she would implement if elected. We recommend re-electing Sandy Hayes due to her progressive work on the board and her endorsements.
Last updated: 2025-07-29
Two progressive candidates are running for Northshore School Board, Director, District 5: Kimberlee Kelly and Holly Muenchow. We recommend Kelly because of her extensive hands-on experience as an educator.
Inclusive educator Kimberlee Kelly is running for the District 5 seat. Kelly is a site director and lead teacher for a Woodinville preschool. She is also a self-employed consultant working in learning and organizational development consulting. She is neurodivergent herself and is dedicated in her teaching, consulting, and advocacy roles to bringing diversity, equity, and inclusion to our schools, including as a member of the Leadership for Educational Equity organization.
While Kelly does not have a detailed campaign website available, she said in her campaign announcement that she will champion policies that support smaller class sizes, robust mental health support, and an inclusive and welcoming learning environment for all students. She is an advocate for special education, arts, and both college and career readiness programs.
In the race for Northshore School Board Director, District 5, we recommend Kelly because of her extensive experience as an educator.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
Inclusive educator Kimberlee Kelly is running for the District 5 seat. Kelly is a site director and lead teacher for a Woodinville preschool. She is also a self-employed consultant working in learning and organizational development consulting. She is neurodivergent herself and is dedicated in her teaching, consulting, and advocacy roles to bringing diversity, equity, and inclusion to our schools, including as a member of the Leadership for Educational Equity organization.
While Kelly does not have a detailed campaign website available, she said in her campaign announcement that she will champion policies that support smaller class sizes, robust mental health support, and an inclusive and welcoming learning environment for all students. She is an advocate for special education, arts, and both college and career readiness programs.
In the race for Northshore School Board Director, District 5, we recommend Kelly because of her extensive experience as an educator.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
Endorsed By: 45th Legislative District Democrats, Alliance for Gun Responsibility, Washington Education Association, King County Democrats
Inclusive educator Kimberlee Kelly is running for the District 5 seat. Kelly is a site director and lead teacher for a Woodinville preschool. She is also a self-employed consultant working in learning and organizational development consulting. She is neurodivergent herself and is dedicated in her teaching, consulting, and advocacy roles to bringing diversity, equity, and inclusion to our schools, including as a member of the Leadership for Educational Equity organization.
While Kelly does not have a detailed campaign website available, she said in her campaign announcement that she will champion policies that support smaller class sizes, robust mental health support, and an inclusive and welcoming learning environment for all students. She is an advocate for special education, arts, and both college and career readiness programs.
In the race for Northshore School Board Director, District 5, we recommend Kelly because of her extensive experience as an educator.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
Endorsed By: 45th Legislative District Democrats, Alliance for Gun Responsibility, Washington Education Association, King County Democrats
Also in this race is Holly Muenchow, a member of the Washington State PTA Advocacy Committee, a district parent, and a former operations programs manager at Microsoft. Muenchow gave live testimony to the Legislature this year in support of a progressive bill to increase funding for school supplies and operating costs across the state, calling attention to how funding inequities impact our students.
Muenchow's campaign is prioritizing an inclusive approach to education that starts with meeting the basic needs of all students. She emphasizes the need for educator support through livable wages, classroom resources, and professional development. Muenchow has earned some progressive endorsements in this race, including from the MLK Labor Council. While we appreciate Holly Muenchow's inclusive and thoughtful campaign, we recommend Kimberlee Kelly in this race due to her extensive educational experience.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
Also in this race is Holly Muenchow, a member of the Washington State PTA Advocacy Committee, a district parent, and a former operations programs manager at Microsoft. Muenchow gave live testimony to the Legislature this year in support of a progressive bill to increase funding for school supplies and operating costs across the state, calling attention to how funding inequities impact our students.
Muenchow's campaign is prioritizing an inclusive approach to education that starts with meeting the basic needs of all students. She emphasizes the need for educator support through livable wages, classroom resources, and professional development. Muenchow has earned some progressive endorsements in this race, including from the MLK Labor Council. While we appreciate Holly Muenchow's inclusive and thoughtful campaign, we recommend Kimberlee Kelly in this race due to her extensive educational experience.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
Endorsed By: M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO, King County Democrats
Also in this race is Holly Muenchow, a member of the Washington State PTA Advocacy Committee, a district parent, and a former operations programs manager at Microsoft. Muenchow gave live testimony to the Legislature this year in support of a progressive bill to increase funding for school supplies and operating costs across the state, calling attention to how funding inequities impact our students.
Muenchow's campaign is prioritizing an inclusive approach to education that starts with meeting the basic needs of all students. She emphasizes the need for educator support through livable wages, classroom resources, and professional development. Muenchow has earned some progressive endorsements in this race, including from the MLK Labor Council. While we appreciate Holly Muenchow's inclusive and thoughtful campaign, we recommend Kimberlee Kelly in this race due to her extensive educational experience.
Last updated: 2025-07-18
Endorsed By: M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO
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King County Democrats
Other Candidates
Lynda Schram is running for Northshore School Board Director, District 5. Originally from New York, Schram studied physics in school and obtained a teaching certificate. She is running a conservative campaign, saying, "Our kids aren't losers - we are failing them." She consistently echoes conservative anti-trans talking points that are meant to divide us. Lynda Schram's dangerous rhetoric is not representative of the Northshore School District.
Last updated: 2025-07-24
Lynda Schram is running for Northshore School Board Director, District 5. Originally from New York, Schram studied physics in school and obtained a teaching certificate. She is running a conservative campaign, saying, "Our kids aren't losers - we are failing them." She consistently echoes conservative anti-trans talking points that are meant to divide us. Lynda Schram's dangerous rhetoric is not representative of the Northshore School District.
Last updated: 2025-07-24
Additionally, several candidates running in Woodinville have been endorsed by the misleading Democratic Woodinville PAC. Read below to find out more.