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SEIU Healthcare 1199NW

SEIU Healthcare 1199NW represents more than 28,000 nurses, healthcare employees, and mental health workers in hospitals, agencies, and clinics statewide. Recommendations from SEIU Healthcare 1199NW are based on candidate interviews, questionnaires, and voting records.

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below ballot measures on your ballot.

  • VOTE APPROVED

    Vote Yes for child care and early learning for Whatcom County

  • Building a resilient and sustainable community means making sure that all children can access the resources and services they need to thrive. Whatcom County Proposition 5, adopted by the county council earlier this year, represents a major investment in our children’s wellbeing and future.

    The measure proposes to create a Healthy Children's Fund to support and expand early learning programs and child care countywide, and to provide additional services for kids who are vulnerable and at-risk, covered by a small property tax increase. These services are proposed in direct response to the growing needs in the county to increase affordable child care options, alleviate homelessness and the cycle of poverty, and ensure all our children are healthy and safe. The owner of a median $595,000 home in Whatcom county would pay approximately $9 per month to support these important services.

    By giving our children the tools and support they need now, we reduce the need for other social supports later in life while building a stronger community for all. Vote “Yes” for Proposition 5 in Whatcom County.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05
    Building a resilient and sustainable community means making sure that all children can access the resources and services they need to thrive. Whatcom County Proposition 5, adopted by the county council earlier this year, represents a major investment in our children’s wellbeing and future.

    The measure proposes to create a Healthy Children's Fund to support and expand early learning programs and child care countywide, and to provide additional services for kids who are vulnerable and at-risk, covered by a small property tax increase. These services are proposed in direct response to the growing needs in the county to increase affordable child care options, alleviate homelessness and the cycle of poverty, and ensure all our children are healthy and safe. The owner of a median $595,000 home in Whatcom county would pay approximately $9 per month to support these important services.

    By giving our children the tools and support they need now, we reduce the need for other social supports later in life while building a stronger community for all. Vote “Yes” for Proposition 5 in Whatcom County.
    Building a resilient and sustainable community means making sure that all children can access the resources and services they need to thrive. Whatcom County Proposition 5, adopted by the county council earlier this year, represents a major investment in our children’s wellbeing and future.

    The measure proposes to create a Healthy Children's Fund to support and expand early learning programs and child care countywide, and to provide additional services for kids who are vulnerable and at-risk, covered by a small property tax increase. These services are proposed in direct response to the growing needs in the county to increase affordable child care options, alleviate homelessness and the cycle of poverty, and ensure all our children are healthy and safe. The owner of a median $595,000 home in Whatcom county would pay approximately $9 per month to support these important services.

    By giving our children the tools and support they need now, we reduce the need for other social supports later in life while building a stronger community for all. Vote “Yes” for Proposition 5 in Whatcom County.

    Whatcom County Childcare and early learning Levy Lift

    Building a resilient and sustainable community means making sure that all children can access the resources and services they need to thrive. Whatcom County Proposition 5, adopted by the county council earlier this year, represents a major investment in our children’s wellbeing and future.

Legislative Races

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below legislative races on your ballot.

  • Sen. Marko Liias has been of the state's best progressive advocates for youth and future-focused transit. He was first elected to the Mukilteo City Council in 2005 before being appointed to the state House in 2007, and finally the state Senate in 2014.

    As the Democratic Senate floor leader, Liias has led the fight for LGBTQ+ equality and created a student loan bill of rights. In the 2022 session, Liias led on a major transportation package that will expand trails, fund ferries and high speed rail, and let kids ride free on public transportation across the state. He also sponsored bills limiting the sale of high-capacity gun magazines and expanding student loan forgiveness. His past legislative accomplishments include passing a ban on the inhumane practice of conversion therapy and creating a new state financial aid program for undocumented students.

    After running for Edmonds City Council last year and losing to Will Chen, Republican Janelle Cass is now challenging Liias for state Senate. Her housing plans would not produce enough homes to offer relief to renters and homeowners in the district who are struggling with rising costs. The homelessness policies Cass proposes focus on attempting to arrest our way out of the problem.

    Our communities need a leader who believes everyone deserves a fair shot at a home with a door that locks and access to services. Liias has been a strong force for progress in the Legislature and is by far the best choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Marko Liias

    Sen. Marko Liias has been of the state's best progressive advocates for youth and future-focused transit. He was first elected to the Mukilteo City Council in 2005 before being appointed to the state House in 2007, and finally the state Senate in 2014.
    Sen. Marko Liias has been of the state's best progressive advocates for youth and future-focused transit. He was first elected to the Mukilteo City Council in 2005 before being appointed to the state House in 2007, and finally the state Senate in 2014.

    As the Democratic Senate floor leader, Liias has led the fight for LGBTQ+ equality and created a student loan bill of rights. In the 2022 session, Liias led on a major transportation package that will expand trails, fund ferries and high speed rail, and let kids ride free on public transportation across the state. He also sponsored bills limiting the sale of high-capacity gun magazines and expanding student loan forgiveness. His past legislative accomplishments include passing a ban on the inhumane practice of conversion therapy and creating a new state financial aid program for undocumented students.

    After running for Edmonds City Council last year and losing to Will Chen, Republican Janelle Cass is now challenging Liias for state Senate. Her housing plans would not produce enough homes to offer relief to renters and homeowners in the district who are struggling with rising costs. The homelessness policies Cass proposes focus on attempting to arrest our way out of the problem.

    Our communities need a leader who believes everyone deserves a fair shot at a home with a door that locks and access to services. Liias has been a strong force for progress in the Legislature and is by far the best choice in this race.

    Marko Liias

    Sen. Marko Liias has been of the state's best progressive advocates for youth and future-focused transit. He was first elected to the Mukilteo City Council in 2005 before being appointed to the state House in 2007, and finally the state Senate in 2014.
  • Rep. Steve Tharinger is running for re-election to the 24th Legislative District in House Position 2. Since 2010, Tharinger has been a progressive leader for the district, passionate about providing affordable health care options to all Washingtonians and unwavering in his advocacy for innovative policies that protect the environment.

    This year, Tharinger sponsored bills to keep our communities safe by restricting ghost guns and prohibiting firearms in school board meetings. He also passed legislation to expand the paid family and medical leave program and increase youth access to behavioral health care.

    Tharinger's opponent is Republican Brian Pruiett, who is making a second attempt to unseat Rep. Tharinger. Much of his platform is just rants about the governor and Democrats using an endless stream of Republican talking points. Some of his more absurd policies include producing a "polite society" by arming more people and rolling back police accountability. His plans to address homelessness and people struggling to afford rent include the helpful statement, "don't be underemployed." Notably, he also opposes increasing funding for public schools to ensure our kids have everything they need to succeed.

    Like many Republicans running this year, Pruiett is trying to divide and scare on crime instead of providing our communities the care, security, and support we need. Our communities are safe when everyone, no matter what they look like or what zip code they're in, has opportunities for affordable health care, a great education, and fair wages.

    Steve Tharinger's experience and ability to pass solid health and environmental protections make him the best choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Steve Tharinger

    Rep. Steve Tharinger is running for re-election to the 24th Legislative District in House Position 2.
    Rep. Steve Tharinger is running for re-election to the 24th Legislative District in House Position 2. Since 2010, Tharinger has been a progressive leader for the district, passionate about providing affordable health care options to all Washingtonians and unwavering in his advocacy for innovative policies that protect the environment.

    This year, Tharinger sponsored bills to keep our communities safe by restricting ghost guns and prohibiting firearms in school board meetings. He also passed legislation to expand the paid family and medical leave program and increase youth access to behavioral health care.

    Tharinger's opponent is Republican Brian Pruiett, who is making a second attempt to unseat Rep. Tharinger. Much of his platform is just rants about the governor and Democrats using an endless stream of Republican talking points. Some of his more absurd policies include producing a "polite society" by arming more people and rolling back police accountability. His plans to address homelessness and people struggling to afford rent include the helpful statement, "don't be underemployed." Notably, he also opposes increasing funding for public schools to ensure our kids have everything they need to succeed.

    Like many Republicans running this year, Pruiett is trying to divide and scare on crime instead of providing our communities the care, security, and support we need. Our communities are safe when everyone, no matter what they look like or what zip code they're in, has opportunities for affordable health care, a great education, and fair wages.

    Steve Tharinger's experience and ability to pass solid health and environmental protections make him the best choice in this race.

    Steve Tharinger

    Rep. Steve Tharinger is running for re-election to the 24th Legislative District in House Position 2.
  • Evergreen Future
  • Sen. Steve Conway is running for re-election to the 29th Legislative District. He served for 18 years in the state House before moving to the Senate in 2011.

    Conway is a longtime advocate for working people, including raising the minimum wage and improving access to union apprenticeships. In recent sessions, he has sponsored legislation to give first responders compensation for PTSD suffered while on the job as well as a wealth tax that would finally require Washington's extremely wealthy individuals to pay their share for the resources we all use.

    His opponent is former Republican district leader Terry Harder, a perennial candidate who has run for office eight times since 2008. Harder's disjointed agenda displays some of the worst of recent conservative talking points, including MAGA rhetoric about increasing militarized police, reducing police accountability measures, and pushing fossil fuels. He also wants to repeal age-appropriate sexual health education for students, opposes changes to the tax code to make the ultrawealthy finally pay their share, and wants to reduce environmental regulations on carbon emissions. Harder's complete lack of policy details as of late October marks him as an unserious candidate for Legislature.

    Sen. Steve Conway is the clear choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Steve Conway

    Sen. Steve Conway is running for re-election to the 29th Legislative District. He served for 18 years in the state House before moving to the Senate in 2011.
    Sen. Steve Conway is running for re-election to the 29th Legislative District. He served for 18 years in the state House before moving to the Senate in 2011.

    Conway is a longtime advocate for working people, including raising the minimum wage and improving access to union apprenticeships. In recent sessions, he has sponsored legislation to give first responders compensation for PTSD suffered while on the job as well as a wealth tax that would finally require Washington's extremely wealthy individuals to pay their share for the resources we all use.

    His opponent is former Republican district leader Terry Harder, a perennial candidate who has run for office eight times since 2008. Harder's disjointed agenda displays some of the worst of recent conservative talking points, including MAGA rhetoric about increasing militarized police, reducing police accountability measures, and pushing fossil fuels. He also wants to repeal age-appropriate sexual health education for students, opposes changes to the tax code to make the ultrawealthy finally pay their share, and wants to reduce environmental regulations on carbon emissions. Harder's complete lack of policy details as of late October marks him as an unserious candidate for Legislature.

    Sen. Steve Conway is the clear choice in this race.

    Steve Conway

    Sen. Steve Conway is running for re-election to the 29th Legislative District. He served for 18 years in the state House before moving to the Senate in 2011.
  • Evergreen Future
  • Chris Vance is challenging Trump Republican Sen. Phil Fortunato as an independent. Vance has previously served in elected office both in the state Legislature and as a member of the Metropolitan King County Council. He was the former chair of the state’s Republican party and now works for King County in communications and serves as a senior fellow at the Niskanen Center, a Libertarian think tank.

    Vance is an outspoken voice against the MAGA Republican trend in the local party he used to lead. His campaign priorities include making sure all public schools have the resources they need for students to thrive and improving our transit system. Unfortunately, he also wants to direct resources away from the things that make our communities safe and strong like affordable housing, accessible health care, and clean parks, and instead use those funds to expand and militarize police forces.

    Fortunato typifies the extreme Republicans Vance opposes. On the first day of the legislative session this year, Fortunato was escorted off the legislative campus for refusing to follow basic COVID-19 protections. Later, he falsely told constituents that COVID safety guidelines have caused more deaths than the virus itself, which has claimed 1 million lives. Fortunato has also promoted far-right conspiracies that seek to overturn the will of the people in the 2020 election and he recently said that the state’s equity efforts were racial “segregation.”

    Residents of the 31st Legislative District deserve a representative who will put community needs above extremist ideologies and conspiracy beliefs. Though he is not a progressive, Chris Vance is the best choice in this race for state senator.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Chris Vance

    Chris Vance is challenging Trump Republican Sen. Phil Fortunato as an independent. Vance has previously served in elected office both in the state Legislature and as a member of the Metropolitan King County Council.
    Chris Vance is challenging Trump Republican Sen. Phil Fortunato as an independent. Vance has previously served in elected office both in the state Legislature and as a member of the Metropolitan King County Council. He was the former chair of the state’s Republican party and now works for King County in communications and serves as a senior fellow at the Niskanen Center, a Libertarian think tank.

    Vance is an outspoken voice against the MAGA Republican trend in the local party he used to lead. His campaign priorities include making sure all public schools have the resources they need for students to thrive and improving our transit system. Unfortunately, he also wants to direct resources away from the things that make our communities safe and strong like affordable housing, accessible health care, and clean parks, and instead use those funds to expand and militarize police forces.

    Fortunato typifies the extreme Republicans Vance opposes. On the first day of the legislative session this year, Fortunato was escorted off the legislative campus for refusing to follow basic COVID-19 protections. Later, he falsely told constituents that COVID safety guidelines have caused more deaths than the virus itself, which has claimed 1 million lives. Fortunato has also promoted far-right conspiracies that seek to overturn the will of the people in the 2020 election and he recently said that the state’s equity efforts were racial “segregation.”

    Residents of the 31st Legislative District deserve a representative who will put community needs above extremist ideologies and conspiracy beliefs. Though he is not a progressive, Chris Vance is the best choice in this race for state senator.

    Chris Vance

    Chris Vance is challenging Trump Republican Sen. Phil Fortunato as an independent. Vance has previously served in elected office both in the state Legislature and as a member of the Metropolitan King County Council.
  • Sen. Jesse Salomon is running for re-election to continue bringing progressive leadership to the 32nd Legislative District. A part-time public defender and former Shoreline City Council member, Salomon has been serving in the Legislature since 2019 where he has been a crucial voice for environmental protections, living affordability, and public education.

    In Olympia, Salomon recently supported the historic Move Ahead Washington green transportation package that invests in infrastructure upgrades and expanded access to Washington’s public transit. Earlier this year, he introduced a bill to strengthen police accountability by closing a loophole that allows officers guilty of serious misconduct to return to their jobs. This came in response to the 2020 case of the Kent officer who displayed pro-Nazi insignia outside his office. Salomon is running for re-election to keep fighting climate change, addressing the housing crisis, and improving the quality of life for all local residents.

    Salomon faces a Democratic challenger in this race, Patricia Weber. Weber is a retired medical doctor and former PCO for her local Democrats. She is running on a platform to get everyone the medical care they need, including mental health services. Weber also wants to make sure all Washingtonians have affordable housing, fair pay, good schools, and freedom from gun violence.

    We recommend Jesse Salomon for re-election to the state Senate in the 32nd Legislative District because of his proven track record of progressive law making and community advocacy.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Jesse Salomon

    Sen. Jesse Salomon is running for re-election to continue bringing progressive leadership to the 32nd Legislative District.
    Sen. Jesse Salomon is running for re-election to continue bringing progressive leadership to the 32nd Legislative District. A part-time public defender and former Shoreline City Council member, Salomon has been serving in the Legislature since 2019 where he has been a crucial voice for environmental protections, living affordability, and public education.

    In Olympia, Salomon recently supported the historic Move Ahead Washington green transportation package that invests in infrastructure upgrades and expanded access to Washington’s public transit. Earlier this year, he introduced a bill to strengthen police accountability by closing a loophole that allows officers guilty of serious misconduct to return to their jobs. This came in response to the 2020 case of the Kent officer who displayed pro-Nazi insignia outside his office. Salomon is running for re-election to keep fighting climate change, addressing the housing crisis, and improving the quality of life for all local residents.

    Salomon faces a Democratic challenger in this race, Patricia Weber. Weber is a retired medical doctor and former PCO for her local Democrats. She is running on a platform to get everyone the medical care they need, including mental health services. Weber also wants to make sure all Washingtonians have affordable housing, fair pay, good schools, and freedom from gun violence.

    We recommend Jesse Salomon for re-election to the state Senate in the 32nd Legislative District because of his proven track record of progressive law making and community advocacy.

    Jesse Salomon

    Sen. Jesse Salomon is running for re-election to continue bringing progressive leadership to the 32nd Legislative District.
  • Incumbent Sen. Joe Nguyen is running to continue bringing strong progressive leadership to the state Senate from the 34th Legislative District, where he has served since 2018. Outside of the Legislature, he has spent almost a decade at Microsoft as a senior program manager. He is running to put people over politics and keep helping Washingtonians access the resources they need to thrive.

    This year, Nguyen sponsored a bill to prohibit the sale of high-capacity firearm magazines and keep our communities safe from gun violence. He also supported Move Ahead Washington, a historic policy package that will upgrade the state’s public transportation while making it more accessible for all and reducing our environmental impact. Throughout his first term, Nguyen’s priorities have included working toward environmental justice, balancing our state’s upside-down tax code, reforming our broken criminal legal system, and making sure all Washingtonians have equitable opportunities.

    Nguyen faces a challenge from Republican John Potter, a paraeducator with the Highline School District and a member of the Teamsters Local 763. Potter would bring extremely conservative views to office if elected. He has a transphobic opinion of gender-affirming health services and wants to revoke our freedom to decide whether and when to grow our families by trying to ban safe, legal abortion. Potter’s approach to the housing crisis is to vilify our neighbors struggling to secure stable housing while cutting funding for the community services so many of us rely on.

    Joe Nguyen has fought to make our state a place where all families and communities can thrive. He deserves to be re-elected and is the clear choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Joe Nguyen

    Incumbent Sen. Joe Nguyen is running to continue bringing strong progressive leadership to the state Senate from the 34th Legislative District, where he has served since 2018. Outside of the Legislature, he has spent almost a decade at Microsoft as a senior program manager.
    Incumbent Sen. Joe Nguyen is running to continue bringing strong progressive leadership to the state Senate from the 34th Legislative District, where he has served since 2018. Outside of the Legislature, he has spent almost a decade at Microsoft as a senior program manager. He is running to put people over politics and keep helping Washingtonians access the resources they need to thrive.

    This year, Nguyen sponsored a bill to prohibit the sale of high-capacity firearm magazines and keep our communities safe from gun violence. He also supported Move Ahead Washington, a historic policy package that will upgrade the state’s public transportation while making it more accessible for all and reducing our environmental impact. Throughout his first term, Nguyen’s priorities have included working toward environmental justice, balancing our state’s upside-down tax code, reforming our broken criminal legal system, and making sure all Washingtonians have equitable opportunities.

    Nguyen faces a challenge from Republican John Potter, a paraeducator with the Highline School District and a member of the Teamsters Local 763. Potter would bring extremely conservative views to office if elected. He has a transphobic opinion of gender-affirming health services and wants to revoke our freedom to decide whether and when to grow our families by trying to ban safe, legal abortion. Potter’s approach to the housing crisis is to vilify our neighbors struggling to secure stable housing while cutting funding for the community services so many of us rely on.

    Joe Nguyen has fought to make our state a place where all families and communities can thrive. He deserves to be re-elected and is the clear choice in this race.

    Joe Nguyen

    Incumbent Sen. Joe Nguyen is running to continue bringing strong progressive leadership to the state Senate from the 34th Legislative District, where he has served since 2018. Outside of the Legislature, he has spent almost a decade at Microsoft as a senior program manager.
  • Evergreen Future
  • Julia Reed is running for the open 36th Legislative District, Position 1 seat to strengthen workers' rights, invest in our neighborhoods, and address inequities at every level of the community. Reed has worked in several levels of government, including in the Obama State Department as a Special Envoy for Middle East Peace, as a senior policy advisor for workforce development in the Seattle mayor's office, and most recently as a public policy consultant. Reed is also the former chair of the 36th Legislative District Democrats, a current volunteer board member for the YMCA Social Impact Center, and a board member at Fuse Washington, which produces this guide.

    Reed offers the most comprehensive and detailed policy proposals in this race, covering topics from housing to health. Reed recognizes that appropriate density is a must. Washington has the fewest units of housing per household of any state and market-rate, middle-income, affordable, duplexes, accessory dwelling units, and permanent supportive housing are all needed to alleviate the pressure. While working for the city of Seattle, Reed helped establish an internship program for Seattle Promise community college students. She wants to expand apprenticeship, technical college, and work-based learning opportunities to get students ready for jobs of the future.

    If elected, Reed would advocate for making zero-carbon transportation available in every city, including electrifying buses and ferries and expanding electric car infrastructure, among other climate priorities. Reed is one of the few candidates this year to show interest in a pilot program for universal basic income, which could be a game-changer for struggling families and working people.

    In our interview with Reed, she was thoughtful and informed about the ways that the Legislature could partner with and invest in communities of color, youth, and others to build a more resilient Washington. Since the primary, Reed has garnered even more support from progressive organizations for her forward-thinking priorities. For her deep experience and readiness to bring innovative solutions to Olympia, we recommend Julia Reed for the 36th Legislative District in Position 1.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Julia Reed

    Julia Reed is running for the open 36th Legislative District, Position 1 seat to strengthen workers' rights, invest in our neighborhoods, and address inequities at every level of the community.

    Julia Reed is running for the open 36th Legislative District, Position 1 seat to strengthen workers' rights, invest in our neighborhoods, and address inequities at every level of the community. Reed has worked in several levels of government, including in the Obama State Department as a Special Envoy for Middle East Peace, as a senior policy advisor for workforce development in the Seattle mayor's office, and most recently as a public policy consultant. Reed is also the former chair of the 36th Legislative District Democrats, a current volunteer board member for the YMCA Social Impact Center, and a board member at Fuse Washington, which produces this guide.

    Reed offers the most comprehensive and detailed policy proposals in this race, covering topics from housing to health. Reed recognizes that appropriate density is a must. Washington has the fewest units of housing per household of any state and market-rate, middle-income, affordable, duplexes, accessory dwelling units, and permanent supportive housing are all needed to alleviate the pressure. While working for the city of Seattle, Reed helped establish an internship program for Seattle Promise community college students. She wants to expand apprenticeship, technical college, and work-based learning opportunities to get students ready for jobs of the future.

    If elected, Reed would advocate for making zero-carbon transportation available in every city, including electrifying buses and ferries and expanding electric car infrastructure, among other climate priorities. Reed is one of the few candidates this year to show interest in a pilot program for universal basic income, which could be a game-changer for struggling families and working people.

    In our interview with Reed, she was thoughtful and informed about the ways that the Legislature could partner with and invest in communities of color, youth, and others to build a more resilient Washington. Since the primary, Reed has garnered even more support from progressive organizations for her forward-thinking priorities. For her deep experience and readiness to bring innovative solutions to Olympia, we recommend Julia Reed for the 36th Legislative District in Position 1.

    Julia Reed

    Julia Reed is running for the open 36th Legislative District, Position 1 seat to strengthen workers' rights, invest in our neighborhoods, and address inequities at every level of the community.

  • As a community organizer deeply rooted in the community, Emijah Smith wants to bring the voices and needs of the community to the forefront through investment in small businesses, trauma-informed health care, and racial justice.

    In our interview, she spoke of how the war on drugs in the Central District was her first doorway into being an advocate for her community. After years of working with Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic, Smith worked at Solid Ground with those experiencing housing and food insecurity, and spent 11 years organizing in Olympia as a community engagement manager at the Children’s Alliance. As a legislator, she wants to prioritize flexible afterschool programs, access to addiction services, and truly affordable childcare.

    Smith has served as PTSA president and vice president of the Seattle Public Schools PTSA. Unique to her candidacy is her experience advocating for her children in the district, which led to developing better investments for marginalized students. In a point of differentiation between Smith and her opponent Chipalo Street, only Smith spoke of ending gentrification in the Central and International District, Rainier Valley, and Renton by ending predatory real estate development practices. She was also the only candidate to discuss the need to support survivors of domestic violence by unraveling the difficult knot of laws and procedures around getting protection.

    Smith's notable endorsements include King County Councilmember Girmay Zahilay, Rep. Tarra Simmons, Rep. Jamila Taylor, and former King County Councilmember Larry Gossett, all of whom are outstanding advocates for racial justice and community building.

    Smith is a great choice if you are looking for a candidate with a long record of work in the community who centers Black liberation, self-determination, and using local knowledge to inform policy.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Emijah Smith

    As a community organizer deeply rooted in the community, Emijah Smith wants to bring the voices and needs of the community to the forefront through investment in small businesses, trauma-informed health care, and racial justice.

    As a community organizer deeply rooted in the community, Emijah Smith wants to bring the voices and needs of the community to the forefront through investment in small businesses, trauma-informed health care, and racial justice.

    In our interview, she spoke of how the war on drugs in the Central District was her first doorway into being an advocate for her community. After years of working with Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic, Smith worked at Solid Ground with those experiencing housing and food insecurity, and spent 11 years organizing in Olympia as a community engagement manager at the Children’s Alliance. As a legislator, she wants to prioritize flexible afterschool programs, access to addiction services, and truly affordable childcare.

    Smith has served as PTSA president and vice president of the Seattle Public Schools PTSA. Unique to her candidacy is her experience advocating for her children in the district, which led to developing better investments for marginalized students. In a point of differentiation between Smith and her opponent Chipalo Street, only Smith spoke of ending gentrification in the Central and International District, Rainier Valley, and Renton by ending predatory real estate development practices. She was also the only candidate to discuss the need to support survivors of domestic violence by unraveling the difficult knot of laws and procedures around getting protection.

    Smith's notable endorsements include King County Councilmember Girmay Zahilay, Rep. Tarra Simmons, Rep. Jamila Taylor, and former King County Councilmember Larry Gossett, all of whom are outstanding advocates for racial justice and community building.

    Smith is a great choice if you are looking for a candidate with a long record of work in the community who centers Black liberation, self-determination, and using local knowledge to inform policy.

    Emijah Smith

    As a community organizer deeply rooted in the community, Emijah Smith wants to bring the voices and needs of the community to the forefront through investment in small businesses, trauma-informed health care, and racial justice.

  • Evergreen Future
  • Democrat Joe Timmons works in the governor's office as the regional outreach representative for Whatcom and neighboring counties. He is now running for Legislature to ensure that communities that have been disproportionately affected by climate change have access to clean air and water as well as green energy jobs. As we enter the third year of the pandemic, he also wants to see greater investments in mental and behavioral health, reliable internet, and emergency preparedness.

    In our interview with Timmons, he stated that his understanding of how Olympia works would help him hit the ground running if elected. He believes that solving the many shared issues of the district, including child care and housing, would help heal the national divide between Democrats and Republicans. Timmons' platform is well-rounded and thoughtful on increasing housing, addressing flooding, securing reproductive freedom, and jumpstarting early learning programs.

    Timmons' opponent is Marine Corps veteran Dan Johnson, who has worked in the towing business for a large portion of his career. He has served as legislative co-chair of Towing and Recovery Association of Washington (TRAW), and partnered with state officials on legislation such as the 2011 DUI bill known as Hailey's Law. Unfortunately, nearly all of his available campaign material is focused on law enforcement and opposing efforts to improve police accountability. Johnson's listed endorsements so far are all law enforcement, and he offers no solutions on any other issues.

    In late September, Johnson was also called out by The Bellingham Herald for a slew of sexist, anti-government, violent, and racists posts on his social media, which even Johnson himself admitted were anti-Semitic.

    Johnson's wild and bigoted views have no place in Olympia. On the other hand, Timmons has earned an impressive slate of endorsements from local and state elected officials, which speaks well to his potential to build coalitions and pass legislation. Timmons is by far the best choice for the 42 Legislative District, Position 2.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Joe Timmons

    Democrat Joe Timmons works in the governor's office as the regional outreach representative for Whatcom and neighboring counties.

    Democrat Joe Timmons works in the governor's office as the regional outreach representative for Whatcom and neighboring counties. He is now running for Legislature to ensure that communities that have been disproportionately affected by climate change have access to clean air and water as well as green energy jobs. As we enter the third year of the pandemic, he also wants to see greater investments in mental and behavioral health, reliable internet, and emergency preparedness.

    In our interview with Timmons, he stated that his understanding of how Olympia works would help him hit the ground running if elected. He believes that solving the many shared issues of the district, including child care and housing, would help heal the national divide between Democrats and Republicans. Timmons' platform is well-rounded and thoughtful on increasing housing, addressing flooding, securing reproductive freedom, and jumpstarting early learning programs.

    Timmons' opponent is Marine Corps veteran Dan Johnson, who has worked in the towing business for a large portion of his career. He has served as legislative co-chair of Towing and Recovery Association of Washington (TRAW), and partnered with state officials on legislation such as the 2011 DUI bill known as Hailey's Law. Unfortunately, nearly all of his available campaign material is focused on law enforcement and opposing efforts to improve police accountability. Johnson's listed endorsements so far are all law enforcement, and he offers no solutions on any other issues.

    In late September, Johnson was also called out by The Bellingham Herald for a slew of sexist, anti-government, violent, and racists posts on his social media, which even Johnson himself admitted were anti-Semitic.

    Johnson's wild and bigoted views have no place in Olympia. On the other hand, Timmons has earned an impressive slate of endorsements from local and state elected officials, which speaks well to his potential to build coalitions and pass legislation. Timmons is by far the best choice for the 42 Legislative District, Position 2.

    Joe Timmons

    Democrat Joe Timmons works in the governor's office as the regional outreach representative for Whatcom and neighboring counties.

  • Sen. Jamie Pedersen is running unopposed for re-election to the state Senate from the 43rd Legislative District.

    Throughout his tenure, Pedersen has proven himself to be a champion for reproductive freedom and the LGBTQ+ community. He has worked to protect the relationships between children and their non-biological parents, which culminated in the passage of the Parentage Act of 2018. This act set a nationwide precedent for protecting the rights of same-sex couples and relatives who choose to become parents. This session, Pedersen supported community safety by sponsoring a ban on high-capacity gun magazines, as well as sponsoring expanded access to free and reduced-price health care.

    Pedersen has earned your vote for another term in the Senate.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Jamie Pedersen

    Sen. Jamie Pedersen is running unopposed for re-election to the state Senate from the 43rd Legislative District.
    Sen. Jamie Pedersen is running unopposed for re-election to the state Senate from the 43rd Legislative District.

    Throughout his tenure, Pedersen has proven himself to be a champion for reproductive freedom and the LGBTQ+ community. He has worked to protect the relationships between children and their non-biological parents, which culminated in the passage of the Parentage Act of 2018. This act set a nationwide precedent for protecting the rights of same-sex couples and relatives who choose to become parents. This session, Pedersen supported community safety by sponsoring a ban on high-capacity gun magazines, as well as sponsoring expanded access to free and reduced-price health care.

    Pedersen has earned your vote for another term in the Senate.

    Jamie Pedersen

    Sen. Jamie Pedersen is running unopposed for re-election to the state Senate from the 43rd Legislative District.
  • Rep. Larry Springer is seeking re-election to the 45th Legislative District, Position 2 in the state House. Before joining the Legislature in 2005, Springer served on the Kirkland City Council, including four years as mayor. Outside of elected office, he runs a local wine shop and serves in a number of volunteer capacities including on the board of Hopelink, which provides emergency services for those who need them most in Kirkland.

    Springer has advocated for community investments in Olympia so that we can all access the basics like housing stability, a quality education, and health care. His priorities this past session included providing support for small businesses, protecting salmon and our ecosystems, and investing in stable housing. Springer made progress on these issues and also voted to protect our communities from high-capacity firearms and to better balance tenant rights with landlord powers.

    Far-right candidate John Gibbons is challenging Springer in this race. Gibbons previously ran for House Position 1 in 2020 when he wrongfully blamed the hardships many of us have faced due to the recent economic downturn on the “poor decisions” of working Washingtonians. Now, he is running to cut funding to the community services that are helping residents put food on the table, make health care accessible, and create more housing stability. Gibbon's campaign priorities also include stripping Washingtonians of reproductive freedom, divesting from essential public transit while funneling even more money to militarize policing in our communities, and repealing our state’s comprehensive sexual health curriculum, which has been approved by the Legislature and voters.

    The voters deserve a representative who will stay in touch with the most pressing issues in our communities instead of getting distracted by conspiracy theories and divisive ideologies. Rep. Larry Springer is the clear choice for House Position 2 in the 45th Legislative District.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Larry Springer

    Rep. Larry Springer is seeking re-election to the 45th Legislative District, Position 2 in the state House. Before joining the Legislature in 2005, Springer served on the Kirkland City Council, including four years as mayor.
    Rep. Larry Springer is seeking re-election to the 45th Legislative District, Position 2 in the state House. Before joining the Legislature in 2005, Springer served on the Kirkland City Council, including four years as mayor. Outside of elected office, he runs a local wine shop and serves in a number of volunteer capacities including on the board of Hopelink, which provides emergency services for those who need them most in Kirkland.

    Springer has advocated for community investments in Olympia so that we can all access the basics like housing stability, a quality education, and health care. His priorities this past session included providing support for small businesses, protecting salmon and our ecosystems, and investing in stable housing. Springer made progress on these issues and also voted to protect our communities from high-capacity firearms and to better balance tenant rights with landlord powers.

    Far-right candidate John Gibbons is challenging Springer in this race. Gibbons previously ran for House Position 1 in 2020 when he wrongfully blamed the hardships many of us have faced due to the recent economic downturn on the “poor decisions” of working Washingtonians. Now, he is running to cut funding to the community services that are helping residents put food on the table, make health care accessible, and create more housing stability. Gibbon's campaign priorities also include stripping Washingtonians of reproductive freedom, divesting from essential public transit while funneling even more money to militarize policing in our communities, and repealing our state’s comprehensive sexual health curriculum, which has been approved by the Legislature and voters.

    The voters deserve a representative who will stay in touch with the most pressing issues in our communities instead of getting distracted by conspiracy theories and divisive ideologies. Rep. Larry Springer is the clear choice for House Position 2 in the 45th Legislative District.

    Larry Springer

    Rep. Larry Springer is seeking re-election to the 45th Legislative District, Position 2 in the state House. Before joining the Legislature in 2005, Springer served on the Kirkland City Council, including four years as mayor.
  • Evergreen Future
  • Pediatrician Dr. Lelach Rave is running for office to bring mental health, youth and family health, and education to the forefront of the Legislature's agenda. She is the legislative chair for the Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics and has spent years in Olympia advocating for policies like paid family leave, feeding kids through Breakfast After the Bell, and creating the Washington Vaccine Association.

    Rave is the only physician running for Legislature this year. Because of her pediatric focus, Rave highlighted the need to support both kids and parents in this burgeoning mental health crisis. She noted that we can accelerate hiring much-needed mental health staff statewide by lowering the administrative burden on health care workers, especially lower-paid staff.

    In her interview, Rave was also one of the few candidates on any ballot this year to discuss the importance of special education, noting that the state is behind by millions of dollars in funding special education, and that special needs kids fell even further behind than neurotypical kids in the pandemic. Outside of her health-related policies, Rave wants to see additional investments in the Housing Trust Fund, more low- and middle-income housing, reduction of fossil fuels, and more.

    Rave emphasized that there are no medical professionals currently in the Legislature. Rave is a good choice if you are looking for a candidate with the experience and drive to advocate for community health care for children and families.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Lelach Rave

    Pediatrician Dr. Lelach Rave is running for office to bring mental health, youth and family health, and education to the forefront of the Legislature's agenda.

    Pediatrician Dr. Lelach Rave is running for office to bring mental health, youth and family health, and education to the forefront of the Legislature's agenda. She is the legislative chair for the Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics and has spent years in Olympia advocating for policies like paid family leave, feeding kids through Breakfast After the Bell, and creating the Washington Vaccine Association.

    Rave is the only physician running for Legislature this year. Because of her pediatric focus, Rave highlighted the need to support both kids and parents in this burgeoning mental health crisis. She noted that we can accelerate hiring much-needed mental health staff statewide by lowering the administrative burden on health care workers, especially lower-paid staff.

    In her interview, Rave was also one of the few candidates on any ballot this year to discuss the importance of special education, noting that the state is behind by millions of dollars in funding special education, and that special needs kids fell even further behind than neurotypical kids in the pandemic. Outside of her health-related policies, Rave wants to see additional investments in the Housing Trust Fund, more low- and middle-income housing, reduction of fossil fuels, and more.

    Rave emphasized that there are no medical professionals currently in the Legislature. Rave is a good choice if you are looking for a candidate with the experience and drive to advocate for community health care for children and families.

    Lelach Rave

    Pediatrician Dr. Lelach Rave is running for office to bring mental health, youth and family health, and education to the forefront of the Legislature's agenda.

  • Claudia Kauffman is a former state senator from the 47th Legislative District. She is running for the Legislature again to uplift the need for early learning, affordable housing, climate action, and more. Kauffman currently serves as the Intergovernmental Affairs Liaison for the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe where she oversees the tribe's legislative agenda on a local, state, and federal level, and she is the founder of Native Action Network. A member of the Nez Perce Tribe, if elected again to the Legislature, Kauffman would be one of a very small number of Indigenous lawmakers, alongside incumbent Rep. Lekanoff and potentially candidate Chris Stearns.

    In our interview with Kauffman, she pointed out how the district's history of swinging between red and blue is an open opportunity for someone with her experience to win the seat. She wants to see the Housing Trust Fund increased, and would help teachers earn higher pay alongside opening more slots for early learning. Removing salmon culverts and cleaning up superfund sites on the Duwamish River are high on her environmental agenda and Kauffman wants to see more transit-oriented housing. On public safety, she believes that there should be more communication between police and the community.

    Kauffman's opponent in this race is Kent City Council member and Republican Bill Boyce. He has just a few points on his agenda available on his site, including repealing the state's long-term care program. Boyce's desire to cut back on health care is unfortunate. According to NPR, about 70 percent of those over the age of 65 will need long-term care for everyday needs like bathing and dressing, not to mention people of any age who require a caregiver.

    Despite his campaign's promise that he will fight regressive taxes, Boyce makes no mention of making the wealthy finally pay their share. The Republicans in Olympia he hopes to join have voted against a capital gains tax and other measures aimed at making corporations and extraordinarily wealthy individuals pay what they owe our communities, and Boyce would likely vote similarly if elected.

    As the district recovers from the pandemic, our communities need greater investments in transit, housing, and the environment. Kauffman is by far the best choice in this race.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Claudia Kauffman

    Claudia Kauffman is a former state senator from the 47th Legislative District. She is running for the Legislature again to uplift the need for early learning, affordable housing, climate action, and more.
    Claudia Kauffman is a former state senator from the 47th Legislative District. She is running for the Legislature again to uplift the need for early learning, affordable housing, climate action, and more. Kauffman currently serves as the Intergovernmental Affairs Liaison for the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe where she oversees the tribe's legislative agenda on a local, state, and federal level, and she is the founder of Native Action Network. A member of the Nez Perce Tribe, if elected again to the Legislature, Kauffman would be one of a very small number of Indigenous lawmakers, alongside incumbent Rep. Lekanoff and potentially candidate Chris Stearns.

    In our interview with Kauffman, she pointed out how the district's history of swinging between red and blue is an open opportunity for someone with her experience to win the seat. She wants to see the Housing Trust Fund increased, and would help teachers earn higher pay alongside opening more slots for early learning. Removing salmon culverts and cleaning up superfund sites on the Duwamish River are high on her environmental agenda and Kauffman wants to see more transit-oriented housing. On public safety, she believes that there should be more communication between police and the community.

    Kauffman's opponent in this race is Kent City Council member and Republican Bill Boyce. He has just a few points on his agenda available on his site, including repealing the state's long-term care program. Boyce's desire to cut back on health care is unfortunate. According to NPR, about 70 percent of those over the age of 65 will need long-term care for everyday needs like bathing and dressing, not to mention people of any age who require a caregiver.

    Despite his campaign's promise that he will fight regressive taxes, Boyce makes no mention of making the wealthy finally pay their share. The Republicans in Olympia he hopes to join have voted against a capital gains tax and other measures aimed at making corporations and extraordinarily wealthy individuals pay what they owe our communities, and Boyce would likely vote similarly if elected.

    As the district recovers from the pandemic, our communities need greater investments in transit, housing, and the environment. Kauffman is by far the best choice in this race.

    Claudia Kauffman

    Claudia Kauffman is a former state senator from the 47th Legislative District. She is running for the Legislature again to uplift the need for early learning, affordable housing, climate action, and more.
  • Evergreen Future
  • Auburn City Council member Chris Stearns is running for Position 2 in the 47th Legislative District to lead on protecting the environment, expanding economic opportunity, and protecting the civil rights of all who live in the district. He is the first Native American elected to the Auburn City Council and has a comprehensive record of leadership, including serving as a previous chair of the Seattle Human Rights Commission, Democratic counsel for the Committee of Natural Resources in the U.S. House of Representatives, and the first director of Indian Affairs for the U.S. Department of Energy.

    In our interview with Stearns, he spoke on issues not covered by any other candidates this year, including addressing undertreated behavioral health issues like gambling addiction and the serious environmental impacts of climate change on Indigenous nations, tribes, and reservations. He also stated that he would be in favor of legislating to help flip the state's regressive tax code, which disproportionately impacts low- and middle-income people more than the wealthiest. However, we were somewhat disappointed that he would not have supported the missing middle housing bill this year, which would reduce the cost of housing by allowing more density near transit hubs.

    If elected, Stearns would be one of only two Indigenous lawmakers in Olympia, along with Rep. Debra Lekanoff. If you're looking for a candidate with experience in city government as well as environmental protection, Stearns would be a good choice.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Chris Stearns

    Auburn City Council member Chris Stearns is running for Position 2 in the 47th Legislative District to lead on protecting the environment, expanding economic opportunity, and protecting the civil rights of all who live in the district.
    Auburn City Council member Chris Stearns is running for Position 2 in the 47th Legislative District to lead on protecting the environment, expanding economic opportunity, and protecting the civil rights of all who live in the district. He is the first Native American elected to the Auburn City Council and has a comprehensive record of leadership, including serving as a previous chair of the Seattle Human Rights Commission, Democratic counsel for the Committee of Natural Resources in the U.S. House of Representatives, and the first director of Indian Affairs for the U.S. Department of Energy.

    In our interview with Stearns, he spoke on issues not covered by any other candidates this year, including addressing undertreated behavioral health issues like gambling addiction and the serious environmental impacts of climate change on Indigenous nations, tribes, and reservations. He also stated that he would be in favor of legislating to help flip the state's regressive tax code, which disproportionately impacts low- and middle-income people more than the wealthiest. However, we were somewhat disappointed that he would not have supported the missing middle housing bill this year, which would reduce the cost of housing by allowing more density near transit hubs.

    If elected, Stearns would be one of only two Indigenous lawmakers in Olympia, along with Rep. Debra Lekanoff. If you're looking for a candidate with experience in city government as well as environmental protection, Stearns would be a good choice.

    Chris Stearns

    Auburn City Council member Chris Stearns is running for Position 2 in the 47th Legislative District to lead on protecting the environment, expanding economic opportunity, and protecting the civil rights of all who live in the district.
  • Rep. Amy Walen is running unopposed for re-election to the 48th District, House Position 2. Walen previously served five years on the Kirkland City Council before becoming the mayor from 2014 to 2019.

    In the House, Walen has promoted gun responsibility, affordable housing, and small businesses. This session, Walen sponsored bills to improve community safety by restricting ghost guns and banning carrying guns in public places like school board meetings. She was also a sponsor of the wealth tax, which if passed would have finally made the extraordinarily wealthy in our state pay for the resources that everyone needs and uses, like education, transportation, and more.

    Walen is running to continue working to fix Washington's upside-down tax code to ensure that families with lower incomes don't pay more than the wealthy, as well as build communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. She has earned your vote for another term in the state House.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Amy Walen

    Rep. Amy Walen is running unopposed for re-election to the 48th District, House Position 2. Walen previously served five years on the Kirkland City Council before becoming the mayor from 2014 to 2019.
    Rep. Amy Walen is running unopposed for re-election to the 48th District, House Position 2. Walen previously served five years on the Kirkland City Council before becoming the mayor from 2014 to 2019.

    In the House, Walen has promoted gun responsibility, affordable housing, and small businesses. This session, Walen sponsored bills to improve community safety by restricting ghost guns and banning carrying guns in public places like school board meetings. She was also a sponsor of the wealth tax, which if passed would have finally made the extraordinarily wealthy in our state pay for the resources that everyone needs and uses, like education, transportation, and more.

    Walen is running to continue working to fix Washington's upside-down tax code to ensure that families with lower incomes don't pay more than the wealthy, as well as build communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. She has earned your vote for another term in the state House.

    Amy Walen

    Rep. Amy Walen is running unopposed for re-election to the 48th District, House Position 2. Walen previously served five years on the Kirkland City Council before becoming the mayor from 2014 to 2019.
  • Democrat Rep. Sharon Wylie is running for re-election to Position 1 representing the 49th Legislative District. She has been a community advocate in the Legislature since joining in 2011. Previously, Wylie worked for Clark County as a government relations officer and ran a small business. Outside of the Legislature, she is a member of the state’s Economic Development Finance Authority and Arts Commission.

    Wylie’s top legislative priorities include making our health care system more accessible and affordable for all, investing in small business support and community economic recovery, and expanding housing options. This session, as first vice chair on the House Transportation Committee, she was proud of the successful work on the Move Ahead Washington transportation package, which will make a historic investment in accessible and climate-friendly transit infrastructure. If re-elected, Wylie will continue fighting to reduce poverty, develop sustainable and healthy communities, and build a Washington where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

    Republican Park Llafet is challenging Wylie for the House seat on a conservative platform. Llafet works in sales at a piano company and says he serves in a number of leadership positions for organizations. In this race, he wants to cut funding for some of the things that make our communities more resilient, including education, health care, food security, and housing, and instead funnel more money into militarizing and expanding police forces. Llafet also joins other anti-education Republicans in favor of rewriting the history books to exclude some of Washington’s diverse communities and provide an inaccurate curriculum to our students.

    Rep. Wylie is a lawmaker who prioritizes community needs. She is the clear choice in this race and deserves to be re-elected to Position 1 in the 49th Legislative District.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Sharon Wylie

    Democrat Rep. Sharon Wylie is running for re-election to Position 1 representing the 49th Legislative District. She has been a community advocate in the Legislature since joining in 2011. Previously, Wylie worked for Clark County as a government relations officer and ran a small business.
    Democrat Rep. Sharon Wylie is running for re-election to Position 1 representing the 49th Legislative District. She has been a community advocate in the Legislature since joining in 2011. Previously, Wylie worked for Clark County as a government relations officer and ran a small business. Outside of the Legislature, she is a member of the state’s Economic Development Finance Authority and Arts Commission.

    Wylie’s top legislative priorities include making our health care system more accessible and affordable for all, investing in small business support and community economic recovery, and expanding housing options. This session, as first vice chair on the House Transportation Committee, she was proud of the successful work on the Move Ahead Washington transportation package, which will make a historic investment in accessible and climate-friendly transit infrastructure. If re-elected, Wylie will continue fighting to reduce poverty, develop sustainable and healthy communities, and build a Washington where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

    Republican Park Llafet is challenging Wylie for the House seat on a conservative platform. Llafet works in sales at a piano company and says he serves in a number of leadership positions for organizations. In this race, he wants to cut funding for some of the things that make our communities more resilient, including education, health care, food security, and housing, and instead funnel more money into militarizing and expanding police forces. Llafet also joins other anti-education Republicans in favor of rewriting the history books to exclude some of Washington’s diverse communities and provide an inaccurate curriculum to our students.

    Rep. Wylie is a lawmaker who prioritizes community needs. She is the clear choice in this race and deserves to be re-elected to Position 1 in the 49th Legislative District.

    Sharon Wylie

    Democrat Rep. Sharon Wylie is running for re-election to Position 1 representing the 49th Legislative District. She has been a community advocate in the Legislature since joining in 2011. Previously, Wylie worked for Clark County as a government relations officer and ran a small business.

County Races

Depending on where you live, you may have the below county races on your ballot.

  • Leesa Manion has worked as the chief of staff of the King County prosecuting attorney’s office for the last 15 years. She is now running for King County prosecutor to provide consistent leadership to the office and support important reforms to the criminal legal system. If elected, she would be the first woman and the first person of color in this role. Outside of the prosecutor's office, Manion has served several leadership roles, including on the boards of the Alliance for Gun Responsibility, the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, and as co-founding partner of Choose 180, which offers coaching and diversion programs to keep youth out of the juvenile justice system.

    Manion's top priorities include tackling the backlog of 4,500 cases filed during the pandemic's work halt, increasing funding for reforms like mental health court, and intervening in gun violence before people become victims or offenders. High on her agenda is continuing to prosecute violent crimes while addressing racial disparities and providing culturally responsive care to victims.

    In our interview with Manion, she offered compelling insights about the prosecuting attorney's office and how she would manage it if elected. She spoke of her experience building a well-functioning team and solid working relationships throughout the legal system, as evidenced by the fact that she earned the endorsement of SEIU 925, the union that includes public defenders. She also spoke about the need to apply racial justice principles to better reflect the values of the community, and invite the community to public listening sessions or possibly convene community advisory boards. Finally, Manion committed to spending more time going to monthly police and sheriff meetings to build relationships throughout the county.

    We recommend Manion for her impressive platform and extensive track record of results, as well as the broad support of many progressive and Democratic organizations.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Leesa Manion

    Leesa Manion has worked as the chief of staff of the King County prosecuting attorney’s office for the last 15 years. She is now running for King County prosecutor to provide consistent leadership to the office and support important reforms to the criminal legal system.

    Leesa Manion has worked as the chief of staff of the King County prosecuting attorney’s office for the last 15 years. She is now running for King County prosecutor to provide consistent leadership to the office and support important reforms to the criminal legal system. If elected, she would be the first woman and the first person of color in this role. Outside of the prosecutor's office, Manion has served several leadership roles, including on the boards of the Alliance for Gun Responsibility, the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, and as co-founding partner of Choose 180, which offers coaching and diversion programs to keep youth out of the juvenile justice system.

    Manion's top priorities include tackling the backlog of 4,500 cases filed during the pandemic's work halt, increasing funding for reforms like mental health court, and intervening in gun violence before people become victims or offenders. High on her agenda is continuing to prosecute violent crimes while addressing racial disparities and providing culturally responsive care to victims.

    In our interview with Manion, she offered compelling insights about the prosecuting attorney's office and how she would manage it if elected. She spoke of her experience building a well-functioning team and solid working relationships throughout the legal system, as evidenced by the fact that she earned the endorsement of SEIU 925, the union that includes public defenders. She also spoke about the need to apply racial justice principles to better reflect the values of the community, and invite the community to public listening sessions or possibly convene community advisory boards. Finally, Manion committed to spending more time going to monthly police and sheriff meetings to build relationships throughout the county.

    We recommend Manion for her impressive platform and extensive track record of results, as well as the broad support of many progressive and Democratic organizations.

    Leesa Manion

    Leesa Manion has worked as the chief of staff of the King County prosecuting attorney’s office for the last 15 years. She is now running for King County prosecutor to provide consistent leadership to the office and support important reforms to the criminal legal system.

  • Pastor and former Clallam County deputy prosecuting attorney Deb Conklin is running for Spokane County prosecutor. Conklin also formerly chaired the Spokane Office of the Police Ombudsman Commission.

    If elected, one of Conklin’s priorities will be to make sure that the prosecuting attorney's office is not overcharging people in our community. She correctly points out that this leads to further crowding in jails and prisons, costs more, and makes our system less just. She wants to restore integrity and transparency to the office after some controversies in its recent history, including questions about current prosecutor Larry Haskell’s potential racial bias.

    Her opponent is incumbent Spokane County Prosecutor Larry Haskell, who is running for a third term. Haskell previously served on the Airway Heights City Council and the Cheney School Board. If re-elected, Haskell wants to continue to push his extremist ideologies and use the office to put pressure on the Legislature to increase law enforcement budgets in order to send militarized police forces into our neighborhoods. This year, Haskell’s wife was exposed as having used multiple racial slurs on social media and identified herself as a “proud white nationalist” – beliefs that Haskell minimized and have no place in our communities, especially not in our legal system. Haskell and Spokane City Councilmember Mike Fagan were also spotted at an extremist fundraiser for theocratic secessionists. To make matters worse, multiple legal experts professionals have publicly spoken out against his policies while in office, including the reduction in referrals to therapeutic courts, his lobbying for the removal of the words "racial equity" from criminal legal reform goals, and his resistance to citizen oversight of the criminal legal system. 

    In this race with no progressive candidate, we recommend Deb Conklin for Spokane County prosecuting attorney because of her support from our partner organizations and her focus on preventative solutions to community safety.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Deb Conklin

    Pastor and former Clallam County deputy prosecuting attorney Deb Conklin is running for Spokane County prosecutor. Conklin also formerly chaired the Spokane Office of the Police Ombudsman Commission.

    Pastor and former Clallam County deputy prosecuting attorney Deb Conklin is running for Spokane County prosecutor. Conklin also formerly chaired the Spokane Office of the Police Ombudsman Commission.

    If elected, one of Conklin’s priorities will be to make sure that the prosecuting attorney's office is not overcharging people in our community. She correctly points out that this leads to further crowding in jails and prisons, costs more, and makes our system less just. She wants to restore integrity and transparency to the office after some controversies in its recent history, including questions about current prosecutor Larry Haskell’s potential racial bias.

    Her opponent is incumbent Spokane County Prosecutor Larry Haskell, who is running for a third term. Haskell previously served on the Airway Heights City Council and the Cheney School Board. If re-elected, Haskell wants to continue to push his extremist ideologies and use the office to put pressure on the Legislature to increase law enforcement budgets in order to send militarized police forces into our neighborhoods. This year, Haskell’s wife was exposed as having used multiple racial slurs on social media and identified herself as a “proud white nationalist” – beliefs that Haskell minimized and have no place in our communities, especially not in our legal system. Haskell and Spokane City Councilmember Mike Fagan were also spotted at an extremist fundraiser for theocratic secessionists. To make matters worse, multiple legal experts professionals have publicly spoken out against his policies while in office, including the reduction in referrals to therapeutic courts, his lobbying for the removal of the words "racial equity" from criminal legal reform goals, and his resistance to citizen oversight of the criminal legal system. 

    In this race with no progressive candidate, we recommend Deb Conklin for Spokane County prosecuting attorney because of her support from our partner organizations and her focus on preventative solutions to community safety.

    Deb Conklin

    Pastor and former Clallam County deputy prosecuting attorney Deb Conklin is running for Spokane County prosecutor. Conklin also formerly chaired the Spokane Office of the Police Ombudsman Commission.

  • Endorsed By: Pro-Choice Washington, SEIU 775, SEIU Healthcare 1199NW, Washington Alliance for Gun Responsibility, Spokane Firefighters Union IAFF L29

Depending on the county district you live in, you may have the following races on your ballot.

  • Evergreen Future
  • Gig Harbor City Council member Robyn Denson is running for Pierce County Council in District 7. She is campaigning to fill Derek Young’s seat when he leaves the council this year because of term limits. Denson has been an active and effective council member in Gig Harbor. She is also a small business owner who works in real estate, hosts a local radio show, and has served on a number of community boards focusing on schools, parks, and equity.

    Denson has worked hard to build equitable economic opportunity in the county. One of her top priorities is addressing the housing crisis, where she plans to draw on her experience as a nonpartisan housing analyst in the state House to implement real solutions. Denson is also running to protect our environment, bring municipal broadband to the region, invest in public transit, and increase access to mental health resources.

    Denson is running against Air Force veteran and human resources manager Paula Lonergan. Her campaign platform mirrors that of many Republicans running this year. She blames the county’s issues on our neighbors who are struggling the most and would rather cut social support services than make investments in our communities so we can all thrive.

    Denson is the best choice for Pierce County Council, District 7.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Robyn Denson

    Gig Harbor City Council member Robyn Denson is running for Pierce County Council in District 7. She is campaigning to fill Derek Young’s seat when he leaves the council this year because of term limits. Denson has been an active and effective council member in Gig Harbor.
    Gig Harbor City Council member Robyn Denson is running for Pierce County Council in District 7. She is campaigning to fill Derek Young’s seat when he leaves the council this year because of term limits. Denson has been an active and effective council member in Gig Harbor. She is also a small business owner who works in real estate, hosts a local radio show, and has served on a number of community boards focusing on schools, parks, and equity.

    Denson has worked hard to build equitable economic opportunity in the county. One of her top priorities is addressing the housing crisis, where she plans to draw on her experience as a nonpartisan housing analyst in the state House to implement real solutions. Denson is also running to protect our environment, bring municipal broadband to the region, invest in public transit, and increase access to mental health resources.

    Denson is running against Air Force veteran and human resources manager Paula Lonergan. Her campaign platform mirrors that of many Republicans running this year. She blames the county’s issues on our neighbors who are struggling the most and would rather cut social support services than make investments in our communities so we can all thrive.

    Denson is the best choice for Pierce County Council, District 7.

    Robyn Denson

    Gig Harbor City Council member Robyn Denson is running for Pierce County Council in District 7. She is campaigning to fill Derek Young’s seat when he leaves the council this year because of term limits. Denson has been an active and effective council member in Gig Harbor.

County Commission

Depending on where you live, you may have the following county races on your ballot.

  • Chris Jordan is a managing attorney in the Spokane division of the state attorney general’s office and is now running for Spokane County Commission in District 1. Jordan specializes in child safety cases as an attorney and worked with Columbia Legal Services to pass bipartisan legislation to support children and families experiencing housing insecurity. His other community leadership experience includes volunteering with Spokane River Cleanup and West Central Dinner Table.

    Jordan is running on a platform to invest in child care, strengthen the county’s middle class, alleviate traffic congestion in the region, and take action on the climate crisis to safeguard the local environment for generations to come. By expanding access to the basics like rent, groceries, gas, and prescription medications, he will work to make the county a place where everyone can build a healthy life.

    Jordan is running against Republican Kim Plese. She previously owned a small business that offered printing and marketing services. She is running for commissioner on a conservative platform that disregards much-needed community investments in health care, housing, and schools in favor of putting more funding towards larger, militarized police forces.

    Chris Jordan is the clear choice in this race and deserves your vote for Spokane County Commissioner, District 1.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Chris Jordan

    Chris Jordan is a managing attorney in the Spokane division of the state attorney general’s office and is now running for Spokane County Commission in District 1.

    Chris Jordan is a managing attorney in the Spokane division of the state attorney general’s office and is now running for Spokane County Commission in District 1. Jordan specializes in child safety cases as an attorney and worked with Columbia Legal Services to pass bipartisan legislation to support children and families experiencing housing insecurity. His other community leadership experience includes volunteering with Spokane River Cleanup and West Central Dinner Table.

    Jordan is running on a platform to invest in child care, strengthen the county’s middle class, alleviate traffic congestion in the region, and take action on the climate crisis to safeguard the local environment for generations to come. By expanding access to the basics like rent, groceries, gas, and prescription medications, he will work to make the county a place where everyone can build a healthy life.

    Jordan is running against Republican Kim Plese. She previously owned a small business that offered printing and marketing services. She is running for commissioner on a conservative platform that disregards much-needed community investments in health care, housing, and schools in favor of putting more funding towards larger, militarized police forces.

    Chris Jordan is the clear choice in this race and deserves your vote for Spokane County Commissioner, District 1.

    Chris Jordan

    Chris Jordan is a managing attorney in the Spokane division of the state attorney general’s office and is now running for Spokane County Commission in District 1.

  • Amber Waldref is running for Spokane County commissioner in District 2 to make the county a place where everyone can thrive. She served on the Spokane City Council for two terms and founded Priority Spokane, a data-driven organization that aims to increase local high school graduation rates and decrease family homelessness. She also currently serves on the Spokane Housing Authority board and the Spokane County Human Rights Task Force.

    While on the city council, Waldref was a leader on several important issues, including boosts for small businesses, working to clean up the Spokane River, and the ballot campaign to create the new all-electric rapid transit City Line. The former councilwoman now wants to bring that energy to the county level to protect the environment, empower youth, collaborate regionally on homelessness, and more.

    She differs from her conservative opponent in her proactive approach to safety, stating that a new jail is both incredibly expensive to the community and doesn't necessarily reduce crime in any way. Waldref would prefer to see innovative community programming to reduce crime and invest in kids and adults. She points to programs like the Carl Maxey Center and the Spokane Regional Stabilization Center as two ways to address racial disparities in the legal system and keep our communities safe.

    Waldref is running against Michael Cathcart, who has served on the Spokane City Council since 2020. Previously, he was an aide for the very conservative Republican Sen. Michael Baumgartner, who voters may remember for his anti-LGBTQ and anti-abortion stances. As former executive director of the pro-business Better Spokane, Cathcart's campaign coffers and agenda are flooded with big developer money. He takes a conservative and hypocritical stance on issues like the possibility of a new jail, stating that "jail is going to make you a better criminal" but also advocating for building an expensive new one.

    Waldref is experienced and ready for the challenge of bringing progressive leadership to the commission. Vote Waldref for Spokane County Commission, District 2.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Amber Waldref

    Amber Waldref is running for Spokane County commissioner in District 2 to make the county a place where everyone can thrive.
    Amber Waldref is running for Spokane County commissioner in District 2 to make the county a place where everyone can thrive. She served on the Spokane City Council for two terms and founded Priority Spokane, a data-driven organization that aims to increase local high school graduation rates and decrease family homelessness. She also currently serves on the Spokane Housing Authority board and the Spokane County Human Rights Task Force.

    While on the city council, Waldref was a leader on several important issues, including boosts for small businesses, working to clean up the Spokane River, and the ballot campaign to create the new all-electric rapid transit City Line. The former councilwoman now wants to bring that energy to the county level to protect the environment, empower youth, collaborate regionally on homelessness, and more.

    She differs from her conservative opponent in her proactive approach to safety, stating that a new jail is both incredibly expensive to the community and doesn't necessarily reduce crime in any way. Waldref would prefer to see innovative community programming to reduce crime and invest in kids and adults. She points to programs like the Carl Maxey Center and the Spokane Regional Stabilization Center as two ways to address racial disparities in the legal system and keep our communities safe.

    Waldref is running against Michael Cathcart, who has served on the Spokane City Council since 2020. Previously, he was an aide for the very conservative Republican Sen. Michael Baumgartner, who voters may remember for his anti-LGBTQ and anti-abortion stances. As former executive director of the pro-business Better Spokane, Cathcart's campaign coffers and agenda are flooded with big developer money. He takes a conservative and hypocritical stance on issues like the possibility of a new jail, stating that "jail is going to make you a better criminal" but also advocating for building an expensive new one.

    Waldref is experienced and ready for the challenge of bringing progressive leadership to the commission. Vote Waldref for Spokane County Commission, District 2.

    Amber Waldref

    Amber Waldref is running for Spokane County commissioner in District 2 to make the county a place where everyone can thrive.
  • Democrat Tye Menser is running for re-election to the Thurston County Commission from District 3. Menser is an attorney, chair of the Thurston County Board of Health, and commissioner with the Thurston County Water Conservancy board. He was elected as county commissioner in 2018 and has been a champion of climate action, legal reform, and small business support since then.

    As a commissioner, Menser has helped pass a Climate Mitigation Plan, invested in affordable housing, and created more criminal legal diversion programs. His re-election priorities include protecting our natural environment for generations to come, ensuring residents can access stable housing, creating solutions outside of policing and prisons to address social issues, and continuing to help small businesses rebound from the pandemic. Menser has earned impressive and widespread support in this race including endorsements from local unions, elected progressives, and community organizations.

    Republican Vivian Easer is challenging Menser. Easer serves on the Washington State Emergency Management board and has worked in emergency preparedness and within the criminal legal system. She is running on a conservative platform to cut funding from essential community investments in housing, education, and health care while pouring more money into militarizing and expanding police forces in our neighborhoods.

    Menser has earned your vote for Thurston County Commission in District 3 to continue bringing sustainable, community-focused leadership to the county.
    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Tye Menser

    Democrat Tye Menser is running for re-election to the Thurston County Commission from District 3. Menser is an attorney, chair of the Thurston County Board of Health, and commissioner with the Thurston County Water Conservancy board.
    Democrat Tye Menser is running for re-election to the Thurston County Commission from District 3. Menser is an attorney, chair of the Thurston County Board of Health, and commissioner with the Thurston County Water Conservancy board. He was elected as county commissioner in 2018 and has been a champion of climate action, legal reform, and small business support since then.

    As a commissioner, Menser has helped pass a Climate Mitigation Plan, invested in affordable housing, and created more criminal legal diversion programs. His re-election priorities include protecting our natural environment for generations to come, ensuring residents can access stable housing, creating solutions outside of policing and prisons to address social issues, and continuing to help small businesses rebound from the pandemic. Menser has earned impressive and widespread support in this race including endorsements from local unions, elected progressives, and community organizations.

    Republican Vivian Easer is challenging Menser. Easer serves on the Washington State Emergency Management board and has worked in emergency preparedness and within the criminal legal system. She is running on a conservative platform to cut funding from essential community investments in housing, education, and health care while pouring more money into militarizing and expanding police forces in our neighborhoods.

    Menser has earned your vote for Thurston County Commission in District 3 to continue bringing sustainable, community-focused leadership to the county.

    Tye Menser

    Democrat Tye Menser is running for re-election to the Thurston County Commission from District 3. Menser is an attorney, chair of the Thurston County Board of Health, and commissioner with the Thurston County Water Conservancy board.