31st Legislative District
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Welcome to the Fuse Progressive Voters Guide to the 2025 General 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 November 4!
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: 2025-10-09
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: 2025-10-09
Charter Review Commission
The Charter Review Commission is elected every 10 years and is responsible for writing the rules for how the government operates, much like a county constitution. Depending on where you live you may have the following races on your ballot.
Charter Review Commission Pierce County, District 1
Kelsey Barrans is running against Steve McCoy for Pierce County Charter Review Commission, District 1, Position 1. We are confident Barrans is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2025-10-15
Kelsey Barrans is running against Steve McCoy for Pierce County Charter Review Commission, District 1, Position 1. We are confident Barrans is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2025-10-15
Endorsed By: 31st Legislative District Democrats
Kelsey Barrans is running against Steve McCoy for Pierce County Charter Review Commission, District 1, Position 1. We are confident Barrans is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2025-10-15
Endorsed By: 31st Legislative District Democrats
Nathaniel Downes is running against Sharon Hanek for Pierce County Charter Review Commission, District 1, Position 2.
Hanek has run for office unsuccessfully several times before as a Republican, including losing by nearly 15% statewide in her 2024 run for state Treasurer. Hanek is the founder of My Family My Choice, a far-right group aligned with Moms for Liberty that wants to ban books and promotes conspiracy theories about public schools. We can't afford to give Hanek a platform for her dangerous, far-right agenda.
We are confident Downes is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders.
Last updated: 2025-10-15
Nathaniel Downes is running against Sharon Hanek for Pierce County Charter Review Commission, District 1, Position 2.
Hanek has run for office unsuccessfully several times before as a Republican, including losing by nearly 15% statewide in her 2024 run for state Treasurer. Hanek is the founder of My Family My Choice, a far-right group aligned with Moms for Liberty that wants to ban books and promotes conspiracy theories about public schools. We can't afford to give Hanek a platform for her dangerous, far-right agenda.
We are confident Downes is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders.
Last updated: 2025-10-15
Nathaniel Downes is running against Sharon Hanek for Pierce County Charter Review Commission, District 1, Position 2.
Hanek has run for office unsuccessfully several times before as a Republican, including losing by nearly 15% statewide in her 2024 run for state Treasurer. Hanek is the founder of My Family My Choice, a far-right group aligned with Moms for Liberty that wants to ban books and promotes conspiracy theories about public schools. We can't afford to give Hanek a platform for her dangerous, far-right agenda.
We are confident Downes is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders.
Last updated: 2025-10-15
Tamara Stramel is running against Jerome O'Leary for Pierce County Charter Review Commission, District 1, Position 3. Stramel is active with the 31st LD Democrats and organized in support of the Sumner-Bonney Lake School Bond last year.
We are confident Stramel is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2025-10-13
Tamara Stramel is running against Jerome O'Leary for Pierce County Charter Review Commission, District 1, Position 3. Stramel is active with the 31st LD Democrats and organized in support of the Sumner-Bonney Lake School Bond last year.
We are confident Stramel is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2025-10-13
Tamara Stramel is running against Jerome O'Leary for Pierce County Charter Review Commission, District 1, Position 3. Stramel is active with the 31st LD Democrats and organized in support of the Sumner-Bonney Lake School Bond last year.
We are confident Stramel is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2025-10-13
Charter Review Commission Pierce County, District 2
Marianna Hyke is running against Brenda Milewski for Pierce County Charter Review Commission, District 2, Position 2. Hyke is currently the chair of the Pierce County Democrats. As a union carpenter, she will fight for working families and work to expand apprenticeship opportunities.
We are confident she is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2025-10-13
Marianna Hyke is running against Brenda Milewski for Pierce County Charter Review Commission, District 2, Position 2. Hyke is currently the chair of the Pierce County Democrats. As a union carpenter, she will fight for working families and work to expand apprenticeship opportunities.
We are confident she is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2025-10-13
Marianna Hyke is running against Brenda Milewski for Pierce County Charter Review Commission, District 2, Position 2. Hyke is currently the chair of the Pierce County Democrats. As a union carpenter, she will fight for working families and work to expand apprenticeship opportunities.
We are confident she is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2025-10-13
Teresa Maston is running against Elizabeth Herrera for Pierce County Charter Review Commission, District 2, Position 3. We are confident Maston is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2025-10-13
Teresa Maston is running against Elizabeth Herrera for Pierce County Charter Review Commission, District 2, Position 3. We are confident Maston is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2025-10-13
Teresa Maston is running against Elizabeth Herrera for Pierce County Charter Review Commission, District 2, Position 3. We are confident Maston is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2025-10-13
Port of Tacoma
Incumbent Commissioner John McCarthy is running for re-election to the Port of Tacoma Commission in District 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. We lean towards re-electing him for Port Commissioner, District 1.
Last updated: 2025-10-15
Incumbent Commissioner John McCarthy is running for re-election to the Port of Tacoma Commission in District 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. We lean towards re-electing him for Port Commissioner, District 1.
Last updated: 2025-10-15
Endorsed By: Tacoma Firefighters-IAFF Local 31
Incumbent Commissioner John McCarthy is running for re-election to the Port of Tacoma Commission in District 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. We lean towards re-electing him for Port Commissioner, District 1.
Last updated: 2025-10-15
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 two 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: 2025-10-13
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 two 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: 2025-10-13
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 two 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: 2025-10-13
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
Auburn Mayor
Depending on where you live, you may have the following city races on your ballot.
Nancy Backus is seeking re-election for Auburn Mayor. Backus first assumed this position in 2014, becoming the first woman elected as Auburn Mayor, and is currently serving her third term.
In her re-election campaign, Backus continues to prioritize housing, public safety, transportation, and other key issues. According to her website, Backus stated that she and the council will continue to invest in improved transportation infrastructure, attract businesses and create good-paying jobs, adjust zoning to accommodate more affordable homes, and prioritize environmental responsibility. In 2022, Backus, along with conservative Federal Way Mayor, Jim Ferrell, spoke against a house bill that required cities to change zoning to allow for more missing middle housing options. Studies have shown that restrictive zoning laws in both Auburn and Federal Way contribute to increased housing costs. We hope that she continues to implement more recent efforts to increase missing middle housing, such as the Lea Hill townhome development earlier this year.
Throughout her tenure, Backus has grown to adopt more progressive solutions for homelessness. In 2018, she extensively applauded the efforts of a required-labor homeless shelter, saying, "It’s really holding everyone accountable for their actions in the homeless situation." A comment like this suggests that those experiencing homelessness and/or addiction need to earn their treatment, despite facing circumstances out of their control. Since then, Backus has helped facilitate the purchase of the former Clarion Inn in Auburn to provide housing to 102 people experiencing chronic homelessness. This purchase was part of King County's Health through Housing initiative that helped expand permanent supportive housing options throughout the region.
We were disturbed to learn that Backus was involved in supporting a local pastor, Josh Headley, who was accused of crimes involving a minor. After Headley pleaded guilty to the charges, Backus wrote a letter requesting that Headley receive treatment instead of jail time, citing his community involvement. The letter was perceived by the community to be inappropriate, given the nature of Headley's behavior and Backus's role as an elected official.
Yolanda Trout is challenging incumbent Nancy Backus for Mayor of Auburn. She has been a city council member in Auburn since 2014 and currently serves as the Chair of the Wellness Committee.
In her time on the city council, Trout tends to vote more conservatively. In 2024, she voted to remove language from the city's camping ordinance, which then allowed city employees to charge unhoused folks with a misdemeanor without offering them alternative shelter options first. Additionally, some conservative candidates and current officers endorsed Trout, such as Peter Kwon, Conrad Lee, Susan Honda, and Phil Fortunato. These endorsements are concerning and could signal a more conservative lean.
Her campaign for mayor prioritizes community engagement, public safety, economic revitalization, youth engagement, and transparency. Her campaign website lacks specific policy proposals she supports and/or intends to implement if elected. Additionally, her approach to issues like public safety has a conservative tone.
Although Backus has earned support from community leaders and elected officials, we are wary of many of her policy positions and disturbed by her support for Josh Headley. As such, we are not recommending a candidate in this race.
Nancy Backus is seeking re-election for Auburn Mayor. Backus first assumed this position in 2014, becoming the first woman elected as Auburn Mayor, and is currently serving her third term.
In her re-election campaign, Backus continues to prioritize housing, public safety, transportation, and other key issues. According to her website, Backus stated that she and the council will continue to invest in improved transportation infrastructure, attract businesses and create good-paying jobs, adjust zoning to accommodate more affordable homes, and prioritize environmental responsibility. In 2022, Backus, along with conservative Federal Way Mayor, Jim Ferrell, spoke against a house bill that required cities to change zoning to allow for more missing middle housing options. Studies have shown that restrictive zoning laws in both Auburn and Federal Way contribute to increased housing costs. We hope that she continues to implement more recent efforts to increase missing middle housing, such as the Lea Hill townhome development earlier this year.
Throughout her tenure, Backus has grown to adopt more progressive solutions for homelessness. In 2018, she extensively applauded the efforts of a required-labor homeless shelter, saying, "It’s really holding everyone accountable for their actions in the homeless situation." A comment like this suggests that those experiencing homelessness and/or addiction need to earn their treatment, despite facing circumstances out of their control. Since then, Backus has helped facilitate the purchase of the former Clarion Inn in Auburn to provide housing to 102 people experiencing chronic homelessness. This purchase was part of King County's Health through Housing initiative that helped expand permanent supportive housing options throughout the region.
We were disturbed to learn that Backus was involved in supporting a local pastor, Josh Headley, who was accused of crimes involving a minor. After Headley pleaded guilty to the charges, Backus wrote a letter requesting that Headley receive treatment instead of jail time, citing his community involvement. The letter was perceived by the community to be inappropriate, given the nature of Headley's behavior and Backus's role as an elected official.
Yolanda Trout is challenging incumbent Nancy Backus for Mayor of Auburn. She has been a city council member in Auburn since 2014 and currently serves as the Chair of the Wellness Committee.
In her time on the city council, Trout tends to vote more conservatively. In 2024, she voted to remove language from the city's camping ordinance, which then allowed city employees to charge unhoused folks with a misdemeanor without offering them alternative shelter options first. Additionally, some conservative candidates and current officers endorsed Trout, such as Peter Kwon, Conrad Lee, Susan Honda, and Phil Fortunato. These endorsements are concerning and could signal a more conservative lean.
Her campaign for mayor prioritizes community engagement, public safety, economic revitalization, youth engagement, and transparency. Her campaign website lacks specific policy proposals she supports and/or intends to implement if elected. Additionally, her approach to issues like public safety has a conservative tone.
Although Backus has earned support from community leaders and elected officials, we are wary of many of her policy positions and disturbed by her support for Josh Headley. As such, we are not recommending a candidate in this race.
Auburn City Council
Depending on where you live, you may have the following city races on your ballot.
Kate Baldwin is seeking re-election to the Auburn City Council in Position 2, where she has served since 2022. Baldwin is a senior advisory architect who consults for IT departments. She also serves on the executive board of the 47th Legislative District Democrats, which has endorsed her campaign.
Baldwin has led with a vision of combining sustainable, long-term growth with community values and an accountable government. Some specific ideas she’s campaigning on this year include increasing tree canopies and shade covers to help cool neighborhoods, engaging with the Muckleshoot Tribe on “food forests,” exploring crisis response alternatives to augment law enforcement, and investing in local housing to support veterans and other community members in need. She also supports increasing development impact fees to support public infrastructure, establishing municipal broadband, and supporting climate protections where needed.
Baldwin is endorsed by an impressive roster of progressive leaders and local organizations. Kate Baldwin has certainly earned your vote to serve another term on the Auburn City Council in Position 2.
Last updated: 2025-10-13
Kate Baldwin is seeking re-election to the Auburn City Council in Position 2, where she has served since 2022. Baldwin is a senior advisory architect who consults for IT departments. She also serves on the executive board of the 47th Legislative District Democrats, which has endorsed her campaign.
Baldwin has led with a vision of combining sustainable, long-term growth with community values and an accountable government. Some specific ideas she’s campaigning on this year include increasing tree canopies and shade covers to help cool neighborhoods, engaging with the Muckleshoot Tribe on “food forests,” exploring crisis response alternatives to augment law enforcement, and investing in local housing to support veterans and other community members in need. She also supports increasing development impact fees to support public infrastructure, establishing municipal broadband, and supporting climate protections where needed.
Baldwin is endorsed by an impressive roster of progressive leaders and local organizations. Kate Baldwin has certainly earned your vote to serve another term on the Auburn City Council in Position 2.
Last updated: 2025-10-13
Endorsed By: UFCW 3000, 47th Legislative District Democrats, King County Democrats, 30th Legislative District Democrats, 31st Legislative District Democrats
Kate Baldwin is seeking re-election to the Auburn City Council in Position 2, where she has served since 2022. Baldwin is a senior advisory architect who consults for IT departments. She also serves on the executive board of the 47th Legislative District Democrats, which has endorsed her campaign.
Baldwin has led with a vision of combining sustainable, long-term growth with community values and an accountable government. Some specific ideas she’s campaigning on this year include increasing tree canopies and shade covers to help cool neighborhoods, engaging with the Muckleshoot Tribe on “food forests,” exploring crisis response alternatives to augment law enforcement, and investing in local housing to support veterans and other community members in need. She also supports increasing development impact fees to support public infrastructure, establishing municipal broadband, and supporting climate protections where needed.
Baldwin is endorsed by an impressive roster of progressive leaders and local organizations. Kate Baldwin has certainly earned your vote to serve another term on the Auburn City Council in Position 2.
Last updated: 2025-10-13
Endorsed By: UFCW 3000
,
47th Legislative District Democrats, King County Democrats, 30th Legislative District Democrats, 31st Legislative District Democrats
Other Candidates
Adib Altallal is also running for Auburn City Council, Position 2. He is a civil and environmental engineer with experience working for local governments.
Altallal's campaign is primarily focused on enhancing public services, community spaces, environmental sustainability, and other key areas. He proposes investing in sustainable infrastructure, well-maintained systems, and spaces for parks and recreation. Altallal also highlighted the importance of affordable housing options and preventing residents from being priced out of their homes. Altallal's platform leans progressive but could benefit from more specific policy proposals.
In this race, we recommend re-electing Kate Baldwin due to her proven progressive leadership and robust community support.
Last updated: 2025-10-08
Adib Altallal is also running for Auburn City Council, Position 2. He is a civil and environmental engineer with experience working for local governments.
Altallal's campaign is primarily focused on enhancing public services, community spaces, environmental sustainability, and other key areas. He proposes investing in sustainable infrastructure, well-maintained systems, and spaces for parks and recreation. Altallal also highlighted the importance of affordable housing options and preventing residents from being priced out of their homes. Altallal's platform leans progressive but could benefit from more specific policy proposals.
In this race, we recommend re-electing Kate Baldwin due to her proven progressive leadership and robust community support.
Last updated: 2025-10-08
Erica Tomas is running for Auburn City Council, Position 4. Tomas is a union member who worked for the State of Washington in the Department of Health. As an epidemiologist, she worked in several social programs, including food stamps and supplemental nutrition programs for women and children.
Tomas' campaign is prioritizing more affordable homes, expanding transit, and attracting union-represented jobs. Although her website is brief, she supports infrastructure that allows for increased housing density. She also supports expanding transit options and increasing investment in community services.
We appreciate her background in public health services, as well as her progressive solutions to the city's challenges. We recommend voting for Erica Tomas for Auburn City Council, Position 4.
Last updated: 2025-10-16
Erica Tomas is running for Auburn City Council, Position 4. Tomas is a union member who worked for the State of Washington in the Department of Health. As an epidemiologist, she worked in several social programs, including food stamps and supplemental nutrition programs for women and children.
Tomas' campaign is prioritizing more affordable homes, expanding transit, and attracting union-represented jobs. Although her website is brief, she supports infrastructure that allows for increased housing density. She also supports expanding transit options and increasing investment in community services.
We appreciate her background in public health services, as well as her progressive solutions to the city's challenges. We recommend voting for Erica Tomas for Auburn City Council, Position 4.
Last updated: 2025-10-16
Endorsed By: SEIU Healthcare 1199NW, M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO, King County Democrats
Erica Tomas is running for Auburn City Council, Position 4. Tomas is a union member who worked for the State of Washington in the Department of Health. As an epidemiologist, she worked in several social programs, including food stamps and supplemental nutrition programs for women and children.
Tomas' campaign is prioritizing more affordable homes, expanding transit, and attracting union-represented jobs. Although her website is brief, she supports infrastructure that allows for increased housing density. She also supports expanding transit options and increasing investment in community services.
We appreciate her background in public health services, as well as her progressive solutions to the city's challenges. We recommend voting for Erica Tomas for Auburn City Council, Position 4.
Last updated: 2025-10-16
Endorsed By: SEIU Healthcare 1199NW
,
M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO
,
King County Democrats
Other Candidates
Brian Lott is also running for Auburn City Council, Position 4. Lott is the Chief Administrative Officer for a local food technology company. He is running a conservative platform to criminalize people experiencing homelessness and send ever-more militarized police into our communities. He has used his Facebook page to advocate for multiple conservative causes over the years.
We know what keeps us safe: living in communities where people of every color and background have access to fair wages, great schools, and affordable health care, where we address problems with proven solutions, such as social supports, to tackle challenges like homelessness and the public health addiction crisis. Instead, Lott wants to label everyone without a home a criminal by making homelessness itself a crime. Lott is not a progressive choice in this race.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Brian Lott is also running for Auburn City Council, Position 4. Lott is the Chief Administrative Officer for a local food technology company. He is running a conservative platform to criminalize people experiencing homelessness and send ever-more militarized police into our communities. He has used his Facebook page to advocate for multiple conservative causes over the years.
We know what keeps us safe: living in communities where people of every color and background have access to fair wages, great schools, and affordable health care, where we address problems with proven solutions, such as social supports, to tackle challenges like homelessness and the public health addiction crisis. Instead, Lott wants to label everyone without a home a criminal by making homelessness itself a crime. Lott is not a progressive choice in this race.
Last updated: 2025-09-30
Lisa Stirgus is running to retain her seat on the Auburn City Council, to which she was appointed in April 2025 to replace former City Council Member Larry Brown. She held a 20+ year career in banking and is engaged with her community.
Stirgus is running a left-leaning platform, with priorities to introduce cautious growth to Auburn while investing in youth programs and long-term sustainability measures. Part of Stirgus's re-election campaign includes expanding traditional policing practices to incorporate alternative methods, such as youth violence prevention and mental health responders. Investing in our youth and exploring alternative policing methods not only keeps our most vulnerable communities safe but also enables our first responders to focus on addressing emergencies within the community. Stirgus is also supportive of varied housing options for residents seeking to purchase their first home, but expresses concern for the impact of growth on existing resources. Stirgus also believes in strengthening relations with the Muckleshoot Tribe and partnering together to invest in long-term sustainability efforts.
While we would like to see her take more progressive stances on matters such as affordable housing, Lisa Stirgus is the best candidate in this race. We recommend electing her to serve a full term on the Auburn City Council in Position 6.
Last updated: 2025-10-13
Lisa Stirgus is running to retain her seat on the Auburn City Council, to which she was appointed in April 2025 to replace former City Council Member Larry Brown. She held a 20+ year career in banking and is engaged with her community.
Stirgus is running a left-leaning platform, with priorities to introduce cautious growth to Auburn while investing in youth programs and long-term sustainability measures. Part of Stirgus's re-election campaign includes expanding traditional policing practices to incorporate alternative methods, such as youth violence prevention and mental health responders. Investing in our youth and exploring alternative policing methods not only keeps our most vulnerable communities safe but also enables our first responders to focus on addressing emergencies within the community. Stirgus is also supportive of varied housing options for residents seeking to purchase their first home, but expresses concern for the impact of growth on existing resources. Stirgus also believes in strengthening relations with the Muckleshoot Tribe and partnering together to invest in long-term sustainability efforts.
While we would like to see her take more progressive stances on matters such as affordable housing, Lisa Stirgus is the best candidate in this race. We recommend electing her to serve a full term on the Auburn City Council in Position 6.
Last updated: 2025-10-13
Endorsed By: 47th Legislative District Democrats
Lisa Stirgus is running to retain her seat on the Auburn City Council, to which she was appointed in April 2025 to replace former City Council Member Larry Brown. She held a 20+ year career in banking and is engaged with her community.
Stirgus is running a left-leaning platform, with priorities to introduce cautious growth to Auburn while investing in youth programs and long-term sustainability measures. Part of Stirgus's re-election campaign includes expanding traditional policing practices to incorporate alternative methods, such as youth violence prevention and mental health responders. Investing in our youth and exploring alternative policing methods not only keeps our most vulnerable communities safe but also enables our first responders to focus on addressing emergencies within the community. Stirgus is also supportive of varied housing options for residents seeking to purchase their first home, but expresses concern for the impact of growth on existing resources. Stirgus also believes in strengthening relations with the Muckleshoot Tribe and partnering together to invest in long-term sustainability efforts.
While we would like to see her take more progressive stances on matters such as affordable housing, Lisa Stirgus is the best candidate in this race. We recommend electing her to serve a full term on the Auburn City Council in Position 6.
Last updated: 2025-10-13
Endorsed By: 47th Legislative District Democrats
Other Candidates
Cobi Clark is running for Auburn City Council, Position 6. Clark is a lifelong South Seattle resident and currently a real estate broker. According to his website bio, he recently completed his capstone, conducting policy research and analysis for Republican WA Senator Jeff Wilson.
Clark's campaign is offering a mix of progressive and center-right proposals. He is somewhat progressive on strategies to increase the dwindling housing supply, such as zoning empty parking lots and distressed commercial areas for high-density housing. He is also a proponent of incentivizing developers to construct more mid-level housing, such as condominiums, which serve as a stepping stone for first-time homebuyers. He tends to lean more to the right on issues such as policing and diversity, equity, and inclusion, and misrepresented Auburn's DEI hiring initiative as a race-based practice. When asked about addressing rising crime rates, Clark advocated for education on self-defence, including the development of a local gun range for residents to learn about safe gun ownership, instead of advocating for social programs that target the root causes of crime in our neighborhoods. Additionally, Clark is endorsed by the Libertarian Party of Washington, the King County Republicans, and the 47th District Republicans.
We recommend voting for Lisa Stirgus to serve another term on the Auburn City Council.
Last updated: 2025-10-13
Cobi Clark is running for Auburn City Council, Position 6. Clark is a lifelong South Seattle resident and currently a real estate broker. According to his website bio, he recently completed his capstone, conducting policy research and analysis for Republican WA Senator Jeff Wilson.
Clark's campaign is offering a mix of progressive and center-right proposals. He is somewhat progressive on strategies to increase the dwindling housing supply, such as zoning empty parking lots and distressed commercial areas for high-density housing. He is also a proponent of incentivizing developers to construct more mid-level housing, such as condominiums, which serve as a stepping stone for first-time homebuyers. He tends to lean more to the right on issues such as policing and diversity, equity, and inclusion, and misrepresented Auburn's DEI hiring initiative as a race-based practice. When asked about addressing rising crime rates, Clark advocated for education on self-defence, including the development of a local gun range for residents to learn about safe gun ownership, instead of advocating for social programs that target the root causes of crime in our neighborhoods. Additionally, Clark is endorsed by the Libertarian Party of Washington, the King County Republicans, and the 47th District Republicans.
We recommend voting for Lisa Stirgus to serve another term on the Auburn City Council.
Last updated: 2025-10-13