Washington Legislature Elections
This guide won't tell you who to vote for, but should help you make the choice for yourself.
We're a nonprofit so we don't make political endorsements of any kind. What we do is publicly driven journalism. To create this guide, we developed a multiple-choice survey to determine where candidates fall on a spectrum of issues. Those answers, and candidate bios, make up the meat of this guide. The potatoes are tips and links that will help you do things like register to vote and turn in your ballot, as well as learn about Washington's unique systems. Read more on our methodology below.
If you're still unsure — or want to dig deeper — we've got in-depth stories on many of these candidates and races.
What's at stake?
Washington voters are about to choose their next representatives in Olympia. All 98 Washington House seats are up for election, as well as 25 of 49 Senate seats. We don't have the capacity to cover all those races, but let us know if there are Legislative districts you'd like to see here in the future.
What legislative district do you live in?
Washington's 49 districts were redrawn this year (in a messy and quite dramatic fashion).
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 10 includes part of Island County, Skagit County and Snohomish County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 10 includes part of Island County, Skagit County and Snohomish County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Incumbent Greg Gilday was elected to the 10th Legislative District House seat two years ago. The Republican, attorney and small business owner runs a title and escrow company. He supported increasing incentives for building denser housing and accessory dwellings, but has spoken out against eviction reform proposals, saying they are making it hard for small landlords. He voted no on the capital gains tax that passed the state Legislature in 2021, calling it “unconstitutional, unpopular and unnecessary.” Gilday has been endorsed by local Republican, real estate and business groups. He has over $302,000 in campaign funds.
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Greg Gilday
Incumbent Greg Gilday was elected to the 10th Legislative District House seat two years ago. The Republican, attorney and small business owner runs a title and escrow company. He supported increasing incentives for building denser housing and accessory dwellings, but has spoken out against eviction reform proposals, saying they are making it hard for small landlords. He voted no on the capital gains tax that passed the state Legislature in 2021, calling it “unconstitutional, unpopular and unnecessary.” Gilday has been endorsed by local Republican, real estate and business groups. He has over $302,000 in campaign funds.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
First-time candidate Clyde Shavers is a former U.S. Marine, where he was stationed in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The Democrat has worked as a lawyer at the Natural Resources Defense Council. Shavers says the 10th Legislative District needs a representative to fight for affordable housing, quality health care and education, and who will protect a woman’s freedom to choose and the environment. He has racked up endorsements from the Washington State Labor Council, Alliance for Gun Responsibility and Pro-Choice Washington, along with long list of building and trade unions, as well as Democratic groups. The veteran has about $370,000 in the bank for the race.
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We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Clyde Shavers
First-time candidate Clyde Shavers is a former U.S. Marine, where he was stationed in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The Democrat has worked as a lawyer at the Natural Resources Defense Council. Shavers says the 10th Legislative District needs a representative to fight for affordable housing, quality health care and education, and who will protect a woman’s freedom to choose and the environment. He has racked up endorsements from the Washington State Labor Council, Alliance for Gun Responsibility and Pro-Choice Washington, along with long list of building and trade unions, as well as Democratic groups. The veteran has about $370,000 in the bank for the race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 10 includes part of Island County, Skagit County and Snohomish County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 10 includes part of Island County, Skagit County and Snohomish County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The Republican challenger in the 10th Legislative District is Karen Lesetmoe, who joined the Navy after 9/11, according to her campaign site. She lists supporting law enforcement, limiting government overreach and providing tax relief for middle-class and working-class families as her priorities. During this past decade, she has worked as a real estate agent. She says her family’s story — immigrants from the Philippines who built a new life from nothing other than dreams and hard work — is proof of the American dream. If elected, she said she would “reverse anti-police laws that caused a spike in crime” and “oppose onerous taxes.” The first-time candidate and veteran raised more than $200,000 for the race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Karen Lesetmoe
The Republican challenger in the 10th Legislative District is Karen Lesetmoe, who joined the Navy after 9/11, according to her campaign site. She lists supporting law enforcement, limiting government overreach and providing tax relief for middle-class and working-class families as her priorities. During this past decade, she has worked as a real estate agent. She says her family’s story — immigrants from the Philippines who built a new life from nothing other than dreams and hard work — is proof of the American dream. If elected, she said she would “reverse anti-police laws that caused a spike in crime” and “oppose onerous taxes.” The first-time candidate and veteran raised more than $200,000 for the race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Dave Paul, the Democratic incumbent in the 10th Legislative District’s Position 2 House seat first took office in 2019. He’s director of external relations at Skagit Valley College. Before that, Paul was a lecturer at Central Washington University. He sponsored and supported bills to decrease the cost of the Running Start pre-college program, lower the cost of prescription drugs and remove abandoned boats from waterways. His endorsements include the Washington State Labor Council, the Alliance for Gun Responsibility and Pro-Choice Washington, along with health care, education, building and trade unions, and Democratic groups. The second-term state representative has raised more than $365,000 for the race.
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We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Dave Paul
Dave Paul, the Democratic incumbent in the 10th Legislative District’s Position 2 House seat first took office in 2019. He’s director of external relations at Skagit Valley College. Before that, Paul was a lecturer at Central Washington University. He sponsored and supported bills to decrease the cost of the Running Start pre-college program, lower the cost of prescription drugs and remove abandoned boats from waterways. His endorsements include the Washington State Labor Council, the Alliance for Gun Responsibility and Pro-Choice Washington, along with health care, education, building and trade unions, and Democratic groups. The second-term state representative has raised more than $365,000 for the race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 11 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 11 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Incumbent David Hackney is a former assistant U.S. attorney with the Department of Justice and a war-crimes prosecutor for the United Nations. He’s running for his second term in one of the most diverse districts in the state. The Democrat supports a tax on capital gains. Hackney has sponsored bills that tighten firearm regulations and aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Hackney, who received a law degree from Harvard University, currently serves on the board of the Tukwila Children’s Foundation. He has about $97,000 for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, David responded that law enforcement should get new financial resources and technical help to take guns away from people who commit a felony or have been accused of domestic violence.
"At a minimum we should regulate who has access to firearms and prohibit ownership or possession of firearms from individuals deemed unreasonably dangerous."
Economy
In our issue survey, David responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
"The economy grows from the inside out. Basic minimum income programs provide ordinary people with resources to stimulate the economy and take care of their basic needs."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, David responded that permanent affordable housing – not shelters – is the answer to both homelessness and housing affordability.
"Our housing crisis is caused by a market failure: the inadequate supply of affordable housing. The government needs to intervene to incentivize builders and provide opportunities for land acquisition that can be used for affordable housing."
Abortion
In our issue survey, David responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"I believe Roe v Wade was correctly decided and that privacy and autonomy over your body are fundamental rights guaranteed by our State and Federal constitution. I would codify that intepretatation."
Policing
In our issue survey, David responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
"Public safety also means that communities of color should feel safe from police brutality and all citizens should feel safe from crime."
Environment
In our issue survey, David responded that Washington needs to invest serious money in developing alternative energy sources and to encourage people to buy electric vehicles, invest in solar energy for their homes and switch from gas to electric to heat their homes.
"My legislative mission statement is to lower the energy burden for low-income communities, reduce the pollution in the environment and mitigate the root causes of climate change. The most cost efficient and effective approach is for Washington state to invest in new green technology and provide market incentives for individuals to adapt to clean energy technology."
David Hackney
Incumbent David Hackney is a former assistant U.S. attorney with the Department of Justice and a war-crimes prosecutor for the United Nations. He’s running for his second term in one of the most diverse districts in the state. The Democrat supports a tax on capital gains. Hackney has sponsored bills that tighten firearm regulations and aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Hackney, who received a law degree from Harvard University, currently serves on the board of the Tukwila Children’s Foundation. He has about $97,000 for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, David responded that law enforcement should get new financial resources and technical help to take guns away from people who commit a felony or have been accused of domestic violence.
"At a minimum we should regulate who has access to firearms and prohibit ownership or possession of firearms from individuals deemed unreasonably dangerous."
Economy
In our issue survey, David responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
"The economy grows from the inside out. Basic minimum income programs provide ordinary people with resources to stimulate the economy and take care of their basic needs."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, David responded that permanent affordable housing – not shelters – is the answer to both homelessness and housing affordability.
"Our housing crisis is caused by a market failure: the inadequate supply of affordable housing. The government needs to intervene to incentivize builders and provide opportunities for land acquisition that can be used for affordable housing."
Abortion
In our issue survey, David responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"I believe Roe v Wade was correctly decided and that privacy and autonomy over your body are fundamental rights guaranteed by our State and Federal constitution. I would codify that intepretatation."
Policing
In our issue survey, David responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
"Public safety also means that communities of color should feel safe from police brutality and all citizens should feel safe from crime."
Environment
In our issue survey, David responded that Washington needs to invest serious money in developing alternative energy sources and to encourage people to buy electric vehicles, invest in solar energy for their homes and switch from gas to electric to heat their homes.
"My legislative mission statement is to lower the energy burden for low-income communities, reduce the pollution in the environment and mitigate the root causes of climate change. The most cost efficient and effective approach is for Washington state to invest in new green technology and provide market incentives for individuals to adapt to clean energy technology."
Challenging incumbent David Hackney is Republican Stephanie Peters. With about a month left before the primary, Peters’ campaign site listed in her candidate statement was not loading. According to her statement for the state voter guide, she has worked more than three decades in resource and financial management, auditing and implementing efficiency measures. She repeats a common refrain attacking the integrity of the 2020 election, saying Washington voters “have a right to assurance of election security and integrity,” but currently “cannot verify that our voter rolls are clean” or “that our tabulation process has integrity,” among other claims. Peters has raised less than $1,000 for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Stephanie responded that Washington has overstepped its authority on gun regulations and state laws need to be pared back.
"Guns are not the problem it's the people how use them."
Economy
In our issue survey, Stephanie responded that we need to lower taxes on businesses to get the economy growing and encourage more hiring.
"Deregulation in housing, possible increase in transportation (bus/metro) subsidies"
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Stephanie responded that permanent affordable housing – not shelters – is the answer to both homelessness and housing affordability.
Abortion
In our issue survey, Stephanie responded that Washington already has strong abortion laws and nothing needs to be changed.
Policing
In our issue survey, Stephanie responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
Environment
In our issue survey, Stephanie responded that we have to carefully balance our priorities concerning climate legislation and the economy.
Stephanie Peters
Challenging incumbent David Hackney is Republican Stephanie Peters. With about a month left before the primary, Peters’ campaign site listed in her candidate statement was not loading. According to her statement for the state voter guide, she has worked more than three decades in resource and financial management, auditing and implementing efficiency measures. She repeats a common refrain attacking the integrity of the 2020 election, saying Washington voters “have a right to assurance of election security and integrity,” but currently “cannot verify that our voter rolls are clean” or “that our tabulation process has integrity,” among other claims. Peters has raised less than $1,000 for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Stephanie responded that Washington has overstepped its authority on gun regulations and state laws need to be pared back.
"Guns are not the problem it's the people how use them."
Economy
In our issue survey, Stephanie responded that we need to lower taxes on businesses to get the economy growing and encourage more hiring.
"Deregulation in housing, possible increase in transportation (bus/metro) subsidies"
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Stephanie responded that permanent affordable housing – not shelters – is the answer to both homelessness and housing affordability.
Abortion
In our issue survey, Stephanie responded that Washington already has strong abortion laws and nothing needs to be changed.
Policing
In our issue survey, Stephanie responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
Environment
In our issue survey, Stephanie responded that we have to carefully balance our priorities concerning climate legislation and the economy.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats, but candidates for both are included here. District 11 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats, but candidates for both are included here. District 11 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Incumbent Steve Bergquist, a history and social studies teacher at Lindbergh High School in the Renton School District, first took office in 2013. The Democrat is vice chair of the Appropriations Committee. Bills of his that have passed include a measure allowing 16- and 17-year-olds to pre-register to vote and one simplifying the path for a paraeducator to become a fully certified teacher. Bergquist has also supported bills that aim to decarbonize the transportation sector, as well as residential and commercial buildings. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Bergquist helped start South King County Food Fighters, partnering with local groups to deliver meals each week to local families in need. He has raised about $222,000 for the race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Steve Bergquist
Incumbent Steve Bergquist, a history and social studies teacher at Lindbergh High School in the Renton School District, first took office in 2013. The Democrat is vice chair of the Appropriations Committee. Bills of his that have passed include a measure allowing 16- and 17-year-olds to pre-register to vote and one simplifying the path for a paraeducator to become a fully certified teacher. Bergquist has also supported bills that aim to decarbonize the transportation sector, as well as residential and commercial buildings. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Bergquist helped start South King County Food Fighters, partnering with local groups to deliver meals each week to local families in need. He has raised about $222,000 for the race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Republican challenger Jeanette Burrage has already served one term in the state House, from 1981 to 1982, representing the 31st Legislative District, which spans parts of south King County and north Pierce County. She’s also a former King County Superior Court judge and Des Moines City Council member. In 2016, she was found not guilty of assault for slapping a 6-year-old special-needs child while she worked as a school-bus driver. The Republican wants to expand the charter school program, saying these kinds of schools have better results and require less funding than traditional public schools. Burrage has a law degree from the University of Washington. She has raised about $7,300 for her campaign.
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We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Jeanette Burrage
Republican challenger Jeanette Burrage has already served one term in the state House, from 1981 to 1982, representing the 31st Legislative District, which spans parts of south King County and north Pierce County. She’s also a former King County Superior Court judge and Des Moines City Council member. In 2016, she was found not guilty of assault for slapping a 6-year-old special-needs child while she worked as a school-bus driver. The Republican wants to expand the charter school program, saying these kinds of schools have better results and require less funding than traditional public schools. Burrage has a law degree from the University of Washington. She has raised about $7,300 for her campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 23 includes part of Kitsap County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 23 includes part of Kitsap County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Republican Janell Hulst is a real estate broker and licensed general contract running for state representative in Legislative District 23, Position 1. She has no previous elected experience but is an active community volunteer. Hulst says her main concerns are crime, inflation, ferries, homelessness and rising state government spending. She wants to cut taxes and help families and small businesses. She is in favor of educational choice and wants to “empower police to enforce laws.” As a lawmaker, Hulst says she would protect the most cherished freedoms in the Constitution, which she considers faith, family and private property. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, she has raised about $24,000 for her campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Janell Hulst
Republican Janell Hulst is a real estate broker and licensed general contract running for state representative in Legislative District 23, Position 1. She has no previous elected experience but is an active community volunteer. Hulst says her main concerns are crime, inflation, ferries, homelessness and rising state government spending. She wants to cut taxes and help families and small businesses. She is in favor of educational choice and wants to “empower police to enforce laws.” As a lawmaker, Hulst says she would protect the most cherished freedoms in the Constitution, which she considers faith, family and private property. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, she has raised about $24,000 for her campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The incumbent state representative in Legislative District 23, Position 1, is Democrat Tarra Simmons. She is vice chair of the Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee and serves on Healthcare, Public Safety and Rules committees. She is also the founding director and attorney for the Civil Survival Project and has also worked as a registered nurse and for Child Protective Services.. Simmons describes herself as a lawyer, a civil rights activist, and a national leader in the fight for criminal justice reform. She grew up in Bremerton and had a difficult youth, which included dropping out of school, becoming pregnant at age 14. Although she turned things around and graduated from college with a nursing degree, Simmons served time in prison as a young adult and then went back to school to get a law degree and has served in the Legislature since 2020, where she has passed legislation to increase voting rights, invest in behavioral health, reduce healthcare costs and improve community safety. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, she has raised nearly $200,000 for her first re-election campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Tarra Simmons
The incumbent state representative in Legislative District 23, Position 1, is Democrat Tarra Simmons. She is vice chair of the Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee and serves on Healthcare, Public Safety and Rules committees. She is also the founding director and attorney for the Civil Survival Project and has also worked as a registered nurse and for Child Protective Services.. Simmons describes herself as a lawyer, a civil rights activist, and a national leader in the fight for criminal justice reform. She grew up in Bremerton and had a difficult youth, which included dropping out of school, becoming pregnant at age 14. Although she turned things around and graduated from college with a nursing degree, Simmons served time in prison as a young adult and then went back to school to get a law degree and has served in the Legislature since 2020, where she has passed legislation to increase voting rights, invest in behavioral health, reduce healthcare costs and improve community safety. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, she has raised nearly $200,000 for her first re-election campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 23 includes part of Kitsap County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 23 includes part of Kitsap County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Drew Hansen has represented Legislative District 23, Position 2 in the state House of Representatives since 2011. Hansen is chair of the Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee, is also a trial lawyer and has taught civil rights at the University of Washington Law School. Last year, he passed legislation expanding public broadband to give people more affordable internet access. He has also worked with state universities to bring new college opportunities to Kitsap County and helped expand the Olympic College engineering program to train more engineers for shipyards. He also sponsored a bill for a new business tax to support higher education and school scholarships. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, he raised about $170,000 for this race, but had another $315,000 in the bank when the race started.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Drew Hansen
Drew Hansen has represented Legislative District 23, Position 2 in the state House of Representatives since 2011. Hansen is chair of the Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee, is also a trial lawyer and has taught civil rights at the University of Washington Law School. Last year, he passed legislation expanding public broadband to give people more affordable internet access. He has also worked with state universities to bring new college opportunities to Kitsap County and helped expand the Olympic College engineering program to train more engineers for shipyards. He also sponsored a bill for a new business tax to support higher education and school scholarships. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, he raised about $170,000 for this race, but had another $315,000 in the bank when the race started.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
A businesswoman without previous elected experience, Paige A Jarquin is the Republican challenging long-time lawmaker Drew Hansen for Legislative District 23, Position 2. She is a realtor and a business manager in the manufacturing industry and volunteers frequently for animal-welfare and military family support causes. Jarquin wants to focus in the Legislature on crime, the rising cost-of-living and personal liberties. She wants parents to have more control over what their children are taught in the classroom. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, she has raised about $36,000 for her campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Paige A. Jarquin
A businesswoman without previous elected experience, Paige A Jarquin is the Republican challenging long-time lawmaker Drew Hansen for Legislative District 23, Position 2. She is a realtor and a business manager in the manufacturing industry and volunteers frequently for animal-welfare and military family support causes. Jarquin wants to focus in the Legislature on crime, the rising cost-of-living and personal liberties. She wants parents to have more control over what their children are taught in the classroom. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, she has raised about $36,000 for her campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 25 includes Puyallup, Fife, South Hill, Midland and part of Parkland. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 25 includes Puyallup, Fife, South Hill, Midland and part of Parkland. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
A write-in candidate for the 25th Legislative District, Position 2, Democrat Cameron Severns is an insurance and financial advisor and has worked in real estate. He has not served in an elected office. He volunteers at his church and leads an addiction-recovery ministry and teaches religious school. Severns also volunteers with a nonprofit rescuing sex-trafficking victims. He says he is focused on both public safety and economic opportunity. He wants to pass renter and homeowner protection legislation. His campaign fundraising reports are not yet available on the Public Disclosure Commission site.
Cameron Severns
A write-in candidate for the 25th Legislative District, Position 2, Democrat Cameron Severns is an insurance and financial advisor and has worked in real estate. He has not served in an elected office. He volunteers at his church and leads an addiction-recovery ministry and teaches religious school. Severns also volunteers with a nonprofit rescuing sex-trafficking victims. He says he is focused on both public safety and economic opportunity. He wants to pass renter and homeowner protection legislation. His campaign fundraising reports are not yet available on the Public Disclosure Commission site.
Democrat Jamie Smith is running for state representative for the 25th Legislative District, Position 1. Her only previous elected position has been as an executive board member of the Puyallup Education Association. She has taught history for 18 years at Rogers and Puyallup high schools. She is a cross country and track coach and a regional curriculum trainer. Her legislative focus would be on fully funding public education, affordable and accessible healthcare for all Washingtonians, green jobs, a less regressive tax system, and improvements to state infrastructure. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, she has raised about $10,000 for her campaign.
Jamie Smith
Democrat Jamie Smith is running for state representative for the 25th Legislative District, Position 1. Her only previous elected position has been as an executive board member of the Puyallup Education Association. She has taught history for 18 years at Rogers and Puyallup high schools. She is a cross country and track coach and a regional curriculum trainer. Her legislative focus would be on fully funding public education, affordable and accessible healthcare for all Washingtonians, green jobs, a less regressive tax system, and improvements to state infrastructure. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, she has raised about $10,000 for her campaign.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 25 includes Puyallup, Fife, South Hill, Midland and part of Parkland. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 25 includes Puyallup, Fife, South Hill, Midland and part of Parkland. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Drew Hansen has represented Legislative District 23, Position 2 in the state House of Representatives since 2011. Hansen is chair of the Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee, is also a trial lawyer and has taught civil rights at the University of Washington Law School. Last year, he passed legislation expanding public broadband to give people more affordable internet access. He has also worked with state universities to bring new college opportunities to Kitsap County and helped expand the Olympic College engineering program to train more engineers for shipyards. He also sponsored a bill for a new business tax to support higher education and school scholarships. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, he raised about $170,000 for this race, but had another $315,000 in the bank when the race started.
Drew Hansen
Drew Hansen has represented Legislative District 23, Position 2 in the state House of Representatives since 2011. Hansen is chair of the Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee, is also a trial lawyer and has taught civil rights at the University of Washington Law School. Last year, he passed legislation expanding public broadband to give people more affordable internet access. He has also worked with state universities to bring new college opportunities to Kitsap County and helped expand the Olympic College engineering program to train more engineers for shipyards. He also sponsored a bill for a new business tax to support higher education and school scholarships. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, he raised about $170,000 for this race, but had another $315,000 in the bank when the race started.
A businesswoman without previous elected experience, Paige A. Jarquin is the Republican challenging long-time lawmaker Drew Hansen for Legislative District 23, Position 2. She is a realtor and a business manager in the manufacturing industry and volunteers frequently for animal-welfare and military family support causes. Jarquin wants to focus in the Legislature on crime, the rising cost-of-living and personal liberties. She wants parents to have more control over what their children are taught in the classroom. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, she has raised about $36,000 for her campaign.
Paige A. Jarquin
A businesswoman without previous elected experience, Paige A. Jarquin is the Republican challenging long-time lawmaker Drew Hansen for Legislative District 23, Position 2. She is a realtor and a business manager in the manufacturing industry and volunteers frequently for animal-welfare and military family support causes. Jarquin wants to focus in the Legislature on crime, the rising cost-of-living and personal liberties. She wants parents to have more control over what their children are taught in the classroom. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, she has raised about $36,000 for her campaign.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 26 includes part of Kitsap and Pierce County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 26 includes part of Kitsap and Pierce County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Keeping the 26th Legislative District Senate seat in Democratic hands may be the party’s biggest challenge this election cycle. Emily Randall first won the seat in 2018 by a margin of fewer than 100 votes, riding a blue wave into office. Last session, Randall helped pass a bill requiring employers to post salary information on job listings. She also pushed legislation to lower tolls on the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. The community organizer and health care advocate has proposed bills to move the state toward universal health care. Endorsements include Washington State Labor Council, NARAL Pro-Choice Washington and local union and Democratic groups. The first-term senator has raised more than $790,000 for the race.
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Emily Randall
Keeping the 26th Legislative District Senate seat in Democratic hands may be the party’s biggest challenge this election cycle. Emily Randall first won the seat in 2018 by a margin of fewer than 100 votes, riding a blue wave into office. Last session, Randall helped pass a bill requiring employers to post salary information on job listings. She also pushed legislation to lower tolls on the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. The community organizer and health care advocate has proposed bills to move the state toward universal health care. Endorsements include Washington State Labor Council, NARAL Pro-Choice Washington and local union and Democratic groups. The first-term senator has raised more than $790,000 for the race.
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A current 26th Legislative District representative, Jesse L. Young hopes to unseat Emily Randall from her Senate seat. The Republican was appointed to the House seat in 2014. He is a software engineer and IT consultant. He has racked up several ethics violations during his time in the statehouse for mixing campaign work with state staffing and resources. Last session, he spoke at demonstrations at the Capitol against COVID-19 public health restrictions and introduced bills to limit the governor’s emergency powers and ban abortions in the state at 15 weeks. He also supported decreasing the cost of tolls on the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. Young doesn't list any endorsements on his campaign website, but says he is backed by a police union, according to his candidate statement. He has raised more than $675,000 for the campaign.
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Jesse L. Young
A current 26th Legislative District representative, Jesse L. Young hopes to unseat Emily Randall from her Senate seat. The Republican was appointed to the House seat in 2014. He is a software engineer and IT consultant. He has racked up several ethics violations during his time in the statehouse for mixing campaign work with state staffing and resources. Last session, he spoke at demonstrations at the Capitol against COVID-19 public health restrictions and introduced bills to limit the governor’s emergency powers and ban abortions in the state at 15 weeks. He also supported decreasing the cost of tolls on the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. Young doesn't list any endorsements on his campaign website, but says he is backed by a police union, according to his candidate statement. He has raised more than $675,000 for the campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 26 includes part of Kitsap and Pierce County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 26 includes part of Kitsap and Pierce County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Republican Spencer Hutchins, who previously served on the Gig Harbor City Council from 2017 to 2019, is running for state representative position 1 for the 26th Legislative District in an open seat. The lifelong Kitsap Peninsula resident is also a real estate broker. His volunteer work includes co-chairing the capital campaign for a local food bank and previous service on the Gig Harbor Planning Commission.
Hutchins wants to cut crime, inflation and the skyrocketing cost of living, as well as stopping the upward trend in state taxes. He would prioritize giving law enforcement the tools they need to do their jobs. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Richards has raised more than $286,000 and there has been a significant amount of independent expenditures in this race.
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Spencer Hutchins
Republican Spencer Hutchins, who previously served on the Gig Harbor City Council from 2017 to 2019, is running for state representative position 1 for the 26th Legislative District in an open seat. The lifelong Kitsap Peninsula resident is also a real estate broker. His volunteer work includes co-chairing the capital campaign for a local food bank and previous service on the Gig Harbor Planning Commission.
Hutchins wants to cut crime, inflation and the skyrocketing cost of living, as well as stopping the upward trend in state taxes. He would prioritize giving law enforcement the tools they need to do their jobs. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Richards has raised more than $286,000 and there has been a significant amount of independent expenditures in this race.
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Democrat Adison Richards, a lawyer with the Northwest Justice Project, serving low-income families and victims of domestic violence, is running for state representative position 1 for the 26th Legislative District in an open seat. He does not have elected experience but has done a lot of public service law and community volunteering. Richards wants to work in the Legislature to help make housing, healthcare and childcare more affordable. He wants to lower taxes for working families, seniors and small businesses. And says he would prioritize public safety and homelessness, and ensure funding for first responders and police is adequate, so they can do their jobs. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Richards has raised more than $314,000 and there has been a significant amount of independent expenditures in this race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Adison Richards
Democrat Adison Richards, a lawyer with the Northwest Justice Project, serving low-income families and victims of domestic violence, is running for state representative position 1 for the 26th Legislative District in an open seat. He does not have elected experience but has done a lot of public service law and community volunteering. Richards wants to work in the Legislature to help make housing, healthcare and childcare more affordable. He wants to lower taxes for working families, seniors and small businesses. And says he would prioritize public safety and homelessness, and ensure funding for first responders and police is adequate, so they can do their jobs. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Richards has raised more than $314,000 and there has been a significant amount of independent expenditures in this race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 26 includes part of Kitsap and Pierce County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 26 includes part of Kitsap and Pierce County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Incumbent state Rep. for the 26th Legislative District, Position 2, Michelle Caldier has taught at the University of Washington for more than a decade. She says she is known for bipartisanship, victim rights advocacy and reforming foster care. Prior to serving in the Legislature, Caldier was a dentist who cared for people in nursing homes. She would oppose what she calls unnecessary tax increases, and supports frontline works as well as protecting the most vulnerable, including foster children, sexual assault survivors and seniors. The fourth-generation Kitsap County resident has been involved in politics as a concerned citizen advocating on behalf of seniors.
According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Caldier has raised more than $223,000 for the race.
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We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Michelle Caldier
Incumbent state Rep. for the 26th Legislative District, Position 2, Michelle Caldier has taught at the University of Washington for more than a decade. She says she is known for bipartisanship, victim rights advocacy and reforming foster care. Prior to serving in the Legislature, Caldier was a dentist who cared for people in nursing homes. She would oppose what she calls unnecessary tax increases, and supports frontline works as well as protecting the most vulnerable, including foster children, sexual assault survivors and seniors. The fourth-generation Kitsap County resident has been involved in politics as a concerned citizen advocating on behalf of seniors.
According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Caldier has raised more than $223,000 for the race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
First-time candidate Matt Macklin is a Democrat running for the 26th Legislative District, Position 2. He is an attorney specializing in business, healthcare and compliance and also works as a licensed nursing home administrator. As an attorney, he also works in disability rights and legal advocacy for children who no longer have parents. In the Legislature, Macklin wants to work toward equitable access to healthcare, improving roads, bridges and ferries, and making more jobs and job training available in the trades and education. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Macklin has raised more than $60,000 for the race and there has been significant independent expenditures as well.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Matt Macklin
First-time candidate Matt Macklin is a Democrat running for the 26th Legislative District, Position 2. He is an attorney specializing in business, healthcare and compliance and also works as a licensed nursing home administrator. As an attorney, he also works in disability rights and legal advocacy for children who no longer have parents. In the Legislature, Macklin wants to work toward equitable access to healthcare, improving roads, bridges and ferries, and making more jobs and job training available in the trades and education. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Macklin has raised more than $60,000 for the race and there has been significant independent expenditures as well.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 30 is mostly in King County with a small section in Pierce County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 30 is mostly in King County with a small section in Pierce County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
The Republican challenger for the Senate seat in the 30th Legislative District in the Federal Way area of South King County has previously served in the state House, on the Federal Way City Council and was Federal Way mayor in 2010. Linda Kochmar represented the district in the House from 2013 to 2016. In addition to extensive volunteer work, Kochmar has worked in various government related jobs during her career. She says her top priorities include public safety, economic prosperity and individual liberty. She is endorsed by a number of state lawmakers and local officials. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Kochmar has raised more than $210,000 for her campaign.
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Linda Kochmar
The Republican challenger for the Senate seat in the 30th Legislative District in the Federal Way area of South King County has previously served in the state House, on the Federal Way City Council and was Federal Way mayor in 2010. Linda Kochmar represented the district in the House from 2013 to 2016. In addition to extensive volunteer work, Kochmar has worked in various government related jobs during her career. She says her top priorities include public safety, economic prosperity and individual liberty. She is endorsed by a number of state lawmakers and local officials. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Kochmar has raised more than $210,000 for her campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The current State Senator for this 30th Legislative District in the Federal Way area of South King County has focused on education during her four years in office. Prior to her election to the Legislature, Claire Wilson worked for 25 years for the Puget Sound Educational Service District, specializing in early education and family involvement. She also served on the Federal Way School Board from 2011 through 2019. The Democrat says her No. 1 priorities in the Legislature include expanding economic opportunities and building safe, supportive communities. She has a varied mix of endorsements, from local firefighters and teachers to Planned Parenthood and the Alliance for Gun Responsibility. According to the state Public Disclosure Commission, Wilson has more than $244,000 in the bank for her campaign.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Claire responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"I believe that two of the most important steps we can take to promote public safety are comprehensive gun reform and increasing funding for behavioral and mental health services and supports. Additional teps like strengthening background checks for gun purchases, restricting high capacity magazines, and ensuring that adults in homes with children are practicing safe and responsible gun ownership are an important start on the road to protecting every student in our schools. I will continue to fight to make our communities safer by prioritizing mental health and gun responsibility."
Economy
In our issue survey, Claire responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
"Thanks to our leadership, Washington has weathered the pandemic’s economic and health impacts better than most other states, and we are in a very strong economic position. However, my concern is that the part of our economy that is thriving is too narrow, and limited geographically. I am proud that our budgets have made our tax system less regressive and have bolstered the programs and services that benefit our communities. However, to ensure that everyone benefits from Washington’s strong economy, we must continue our work on tax fairness to take the burden off of low and middle-income families and sustainably fund the services Washingtontonians rely on. As the Chair of the Senate Human Services, Rehabilitation and Reentry committee, I have been working with a stakeholder group around the logistics of a guaranteed basic income program, and I look forward to engaging in greater detail with this work. . I also believe that by supporting our young people from the very beginning, we can build pathways to acquire skills and training that ultimately serve to prepare young people to enter the workforce and earn family wages. As a lifetime educator and the vice-chair of the Senate Committee on K-12 Education and Early Learning, I have devoted my career to providing education and opportunity from the earliest stages of life and beyond. Through providing quality child care that is accessible and affordable, we not only help our kids, we also enable parents to participate in the workforce. We took a massive stride towards this goal in the passage of the Fair Start for Kids Act in 2021 (E2SSB 5237). In addition, we are currently working to create more apprenticeship programs and career and technical training opportunities for students and workers pursuing careers in the trades. Throughout all this work, I strive to fight racial and economic disparities in education and access to opportunities to ensure that family-wage jobs are within reach for all members of our communities."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Claire responded that permanent affordable housing – not shelters – is the answer to both homelessness and housing affordability.
"Safe and stable housing is a prerequisite to any other kind of growth or change, and should be considered a basic service that is delivered alongside the other services and supports which are necessary to both prevent and end homelessness. This means first and foremost providing funding and support to the organizations that are already on the ground doing the work to combat homelessness, promote accessible and affordable housing, and build safe and healthy communities for all of us. It also means ensuring that those who are often left behind, including seniors, low income families, communities of color, LGBTQIA+, and rural communities are centered when we have these conversations - and when we allocate resources. Finally, it means addressing all of the other issues that contribute to homelessness; a lack of jobs that pay a family wage, the disproportionate impacts of our criminal justice system on low income individuals and communities of color, underinvestment in behavioral health care and treatment for substance use disorder, and disparities in educational outcomes based on identity or zip code. In my four years in the Senate, I have fought hard to address homelessness by pursuing all of these paths, but there is still so much to do. That is why I am running for reelection - to help build safe, healthy and supportive communities in which missing one paycheck cannot lead to living unhoused."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Claire responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"I am outraged by the Dobbs decision, which reverses almost half a century of precedent to take our right to bodily autonomy away. I will fight in the legislature to ensure that every person with a uterus in Washington has access to reproductive care and that our state will accommodate out-of-state travelers seeking reproductive care. I also believe that reproductive choice means a choice free of financial coercion – nobody should be forced to get an abortion because they cannot afford to have a child. That’s why I passed the Fair Start For Kids Act, which makes huge strides towards making childcare affordable and accessible for all Washington families. I will continue to invest in Early Learning and young families. I am also proud to have passed a bill that focuses on comprehensive sexuality health education in every Washington public school kindergarten through 12th Grade. This curriculum is science based, age appropriate, centers an understanding of mutual respect, and emphasizes the importance of affirmative consent before engaging in sexual activity. This approach is proven to help reduce unintended pregnancies and prevent violence, coercion, and intimidation in relationships. I will continue to fight for the right to bodily autonomy and uncoerced life choices for every person in our state."
Policing
In our issue survey, Claire responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
"Every community in Washington deserves to feel safe from crime and police misconduct. As such, I am committed to continuing to hone initiatives designed to reduce police violence and hold everyone in our society accountable for wrongdoing. For me, this means providing additional resources and training to enable law enforcement officers to better deal with emergencies of all kinds, increasing funding for behavioral and mental health supports and substance use disorder treatment, and continuing to re-visit, re-evaluate, and potentially revise existing legislation to ensure that it is meeting its stated goals without unintended consequences. Systemic reform is rarely easy or quick to implement, but I will continue to listen to communities about their needs and prioritize public safety as viewed through the lens of public health."
Environment
In our issue survey, Claire responded that Washington needs to invest serious money in developing alternative energy sources and to encourage people to buy electric vehicles, invest in solar energy for their homes and switch from gas to electric to heat their homes.
"I have dedicated my career to improving the futures’ of kids in my area and in Washington state. Nothing could be more critical to ensuring a healthy future for our children than tackling climate change. It is also essential to target environmental policies that reduce the impacts of climate change and pollution on communities of color and other marginalized groups. For example, recent studies have shown that air quality is worse in traditionally red-lined neighborhoods, which also holds for different kinds of pollution. In the Senate, I was proud to support the Clean Fuels Standard, 100% Clean Energy, the Climate Commitment Act, and the greenest transportation package ever passed in the state of Washington. However, I was disappointed to see a few impactful environmental initiatives fail to pass in the most recent session. I look forward to getting back to work on climate policy when I am re-elected. One of the most important things we can do to reduce carbon impacts is to ensure that development in our communities is planned around transit and in a manner that prioritizes emission reduction. Transportation is the number one emitter of greenhouse gasses, and focusing on green transportation solutions will be key to addressing climate change. In addition, we must do more in the coming years to decarbonize the building sector in Washington. Ensuring that new buildings are more efficient and retrofitting older buildings to be cleaner helps the environment, and it also provides green jobs and helps the economy. At the same time, we must ensure that workers in the fossil fuel, transportation, construction, and other impacted industries in our state are at the table when we make decisions so that we can facilitate a just transition which prioritizes the wellbeing of all of our communities as we move towards a greener, cleaner future."
Claire Wilson
The current State Senator for this 30th Legislative District in the Federal Way area of South King County has focused on education during her four years in office. Prior to her election to the Legislature, Claire Wilson worked for 25 years for the Puget Sound Educational Service District, specializing in early education and family involvement. She also served on the Federal Way School Board from 2011 through 2019. The Democrat says her No. 1 priorities in the Legislature include expanding economic opportunities and building safe, supportive communities. She has a varied mix of endorsements, from local firefighters and teachers to Planned Parenthood and the Alliance for Gun Responsibility. According to the state Public Disclosure Commission, Wilson has more than $244,000 in the bank for her campaign.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Claire responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"I believe that two of the most important steps we can take to promote public safety are comprehensive gun reform and increasing funding for behavioral and mental health services and supports. Additional teps like strengthening background checks for gun purchases, restricting high capacity magazines, and ensuring that adults in homes with children are practicing safe and responsible gun ownership are an important start on the road to protecting every student in our schools. I will continue to fight to make our communities safer by prioritizing mental health and gun responsibility."
Economy
In our issue survey, Claire responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
"Thanks to our leadership, Washington has weathered the pandemic’s economic and health impacts better than most other states, and we are in a very strong economic position. However, my concern is that the part of our economy that is thriving is too narrow, and limited geographically. I am proud that our budgets have made our tax system less regressive and have bolstered the programs and services that benefit our communities. However, to ensure that everyone benefits from Washington’s strong economy, we must continue our work on tax fairness to take the burden off of low and middle-income families and sustainably fund the services Washingtontonians rely on. As the Chair of the Senate Human Services, Rehabilitation and Reentry committee, I have been working with a stakeholder group around the logistics of a guaranteed basic income program, and I look forward to engaging in greater detail with this work. . I also believe that by supporting our young people from the very beginning, we can build pathways to acquire skills and training that ultimately serve to prepare young people to enter the workforce and earn family wages. As a lifetime educator and the vice-chair of the Senate Committee on K-12 Education and Early Learning, I have devoted my career to providing education and opportunity from the earliest stages of life and beyond. Through providing quality child care that is accessible and affordable, we not only help our kids, we also enable parents to participate in the workforce. We took a massive stride towards this goal in the passage of the Fair Start for Kids Act in 2021 (E2SSB 5237). In addition, we are currently working to create more apprenticeship programs and career and technical training opportunities for students and workers pursuing careers in the trades. Throughout all this work, I strive to fight racial and economic disparities in education and access to opportunities to ensure that family-wage jobs are within reach for all members of our communities."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Claire responded that permanent affordable housing – not shelters – is the answer to both homelessness and housing affordability.
"Safe and stable housing is a prerequisite to any other kind of growth or change, and should be considered a basic service that is delivered alongside the other services and supports which are necessary to both prevent and end homelessness. This means first and foremost providing funding and support to the organizations that are already on the ground doing the work to combat homelessness, promote accessible and affordable housing, and build safe and healthy communities for all of us. It also means ensuring that those who are often left behind, including seniors, low income families, communities of color, LGBTQIA+, and rural communities are centered when we have these conversations - and when we allocate resources. Finally, it means addressing all of the other issues that contribute to homelessness; a lack of jobs that pay a family wage, the disproportionate impacts of our criminal justice system on low income individuals and communities of color, underinvestment in behavioral health care and treatment for substance use disorder, and disparities in educational outcomes based on identity or zip code. In my four years in the Senate, I have fought hard to address homelessness by pursuing all of these paths, but there is still so much to do. That is why I am running for reelection - to help build safe, healthy and supportive communities in which missing one paycheck cannot lead to living unhoused."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Claire responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"I am outraged by the Dobbs decision, which reverses almost half a century of precedent to take our right to bodily autonomy away. I will fight in the legislature to ensure that every person with a uterus in Washington has access to reproductive care and that our state will accommodate out-of-state travelers seeking reproductive care. I also believe that reproductive choice means a choice free of financial coercion – nobody should be forced to get an abortion because they cannot afford to have a child. That’s why I passed the Fair Start For Kids Act, which makes huge strides towards making childcare affordable and accessible for all Washington families. I will continue to invest in Early Learning and young families. I am also proud to have passed a bill that focuses on comprehensive sexuality health education in every Washington public school kindergarten through 12th Grade. This curriculum is science based, age appropriate, centers an understanding of mutual respect, and emphasizes the importance of affirmative consent before engaging in sexual activity. This approach is proven to help reduce unintended pregnancies and prevent violence, coercion, and intimidation in relationships. I will continue to fight for the right to bodily autonomy and uncoerced life choices for every person in our state."
Policing
In our issue survey, Claire responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
"Every community in Washington deserves to feel safe from crime and police misconduct. As such, I am committed to continuing to hone initiatives designed to reduce police violence and hold everyone in our society accountable for wrongdoing. For me, this means providing additional resources and training to enable law enforcement officers to better deal with emergencies of all kinds, increasing funding for behavioral and mental health supports and substance use disorder treatment, and continuing to re-visit, re-evaluate, and potentially revise existing legislation to ensure that it is meeting its stated goals without unintended consequences. Systemic reform is rarely easy or quick to implement, but I will continue to listen to communities about their needs and prioritize public safety as viewed through the lens of public health."
Environment
In our issue survey, Claire responded that Washington needs to invest serious money in developing alternative energy sources and to encourage people to buy electric vehicles, invest in solar energy for their homes and switch from gas to electric to heat their homes.
"I have dedicated my career to improving the futures’ of kids in my area and in Washington state. Nothing could be more critical to ensuring a healthy future for our children than tackling climate change. It is also essential to target environmental policies that reduce the impacts of climate change and pollution on communities of color and other marginalized groups. For example, recent studies have shown that air quality is worse in traditionally red-lined neighborhoods, which also holds for different kinds of pollution. In the Senate, I was proud to support the Clean Fuels Standard, 100% Clean Energy, the Climate Commitment Act, and the greenest transportation package ever passed in the state of Washington. However, I was disappointed to see a few impactful environmental initiatives fail to pass in the most recent session. I look forward to getting back to work on climate policy when I am re-elected. One of the most important things we can do to reduce carbon impacts is to ensure that development in our communities is planned around transit and in a manner that prioritizes emission reduction. Transportation is the number one emitter of greenhouse gasses, and focusing on green transportation solutions will be key to addressing climate change. In addition, we must do more in the coming years to decarbonize the building sector in Washington. Ensuring that new buildings are more efficient and retrofitting older buildings to be cleaner helps the environment, and it also provides green jobs and helps the economy. At the same time, we must ensure that workers in the fossil fuel, transportation, construction, and other impacted industries in our state are at the table when we make decisions so that we can facilitate a just transition which prioritizes the wellbeing of all of our communities as we move towards a greener, cleaner future."
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 32 includes part of King County with a small section in Pierce County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 32 includes part of King County with a small section in Pierce County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
This Republican challenger to represent Legislative District 30, Position 1, is a police commander and says he is “not a career politician.” Casey Jones is endorsed by various law enforcement groups and is focusing his campaign on public safety issues. He has worked at a variety of law enforcement jobs, from SWAT member to school resource officer. Jones maintains in his state voter guide statement that “radical groups have taken over policy development in Olympia.” He believes recent laws are preventing officers from arresting criminals who need to be arrested. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Jones has raised about $76,000 for his campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Casey Jones
This Republican challenger to represent Legislative District 30, Position 1, is a police commander and says he is “not a career politician.” Casey Jones is endorsed by various law enforcement groups and is focusing his campaign on public safety issues. He has worked at a variety of law enforcement jobs, from SWAT member to school resource officer. Jones maintains in his state voter guide statement that “radical groups have taken over policy development in Olympia.” He believes recent laws are preventing officers from arresting criminals who need to be arrested. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Jones has raised about $76,000 for his campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The current representative for Legislative District 30, Position 1, Jamila E. Taylor, was the prime sponsor of six bills that were signed into law during her first term in office. She is chair of the Legislative Black Caucus and works as an attorney for the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion or LEAD program that works with police to find alternatives to the criminal justice system for some people accused of committing a crime. The Democrat previously managed legal aid attorneys assisting domestic violence survivors and other crime victims and also worked as a youth advocate. She focuses in the Legislature on Iaw and justice work as well as community safety and health. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Taylor has raised more than $284,000 for this campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Jamila E. Taylor
The current representative for Legislative District 30, Position 1, Jamila E. Taylor, was the prime sponsor of six bills that were signed into law during her first term in office. She is chair of the Legislative Black Caucus and works as an attorney for the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion or LEAD program that works with police to find alternatives to the criminal justice system for some people accused of committing a crime. The Democrat previously managed legal aid attorneys assisting domestic violence survivors and other crime victims and also worked as a youth advocate. She focuses in the Legislature on Iaw and justice work as well as community safety and health. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Taylor has raised more than $284,000 for this campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 32 includes part of King County with a small section in Pierce County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 32 includes part of King County with a small section in Pierce County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
A former state lawmaker, Kristine Reeves is a small business owner in Federal Way, serves on the Washington State Gambling Commision and has worked as the state’s economic development director for military families and veterans at the Washington State Department of Commerce. The Democrat has also worked for U.S. Sen. Patty Murray in the area of veterans affairs. Reeves advocates for a move away from partisan politics and toward “a renewed commitment to solving people’s problems.” While in the Legislature from 2017-2019, she worked on policy issues including family leave, affordable childcare, apprenticeship and job training for those not going to college and fought for lower taxes. According to the state Public Disclosure Commission, Reeves has raised about $212,000 for this election.
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Kristine Reeves
A former state lawmaker, Kristine Reeves is a small business owner in Federal Way, serves on the Washington State Gambling Commision and has worked as the state’s economic development director for military families and veterans at the Washington State Department of Commerce. The Democrat has also worked for U.S. Sen. Patty Murray in the area of veterans affairs. Reeves advocates for a move away from partisan politics and toward “a renewed commitment to solving people’s problems.” While in the Legislature from 2017-2019, she worked on policy issues including family leave, affordable childcare, apprenticeship and job training for those not going to college and fought for lower taxes. According to the state Public Disclosure Commission, Reeves has raised about $212,000 for this election.
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The Republican running for this seat, Ashli Tagoai, is a first-time candidate for elected office. She is an attorney, who specializes in civil litigation, estate planning, real estate law and business law. Tagoai is a legal volunteer with Seattle University’s Domestic Violence Pop-Up Clinic and has helped survivors file for protection orders. In Olympia, she wants to fight regressive taxes that hurt middle class and lower income families. She will support police and first responders and says “Soft-on-crime policies are failing our district.” According to the state Public Disclosure Commission, Tagoai has raised about $130,000 for this election.
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Ashli Tagoai
The Republican running for this seat, Ashli Tagoai, is a first-time candidate for elected office. She is an attorney, who specializes in civil litigation, estate planning, real estate law and business law. Tagoai is a legal volunteer with Seattle University’s Domestic Violence Pop-Up Clinic and has helped survivors file for protection orders. In Olympia, she wants to fight regressive taxes that hurt middle class and lower income families. She will support police and first responders and says “Soft-on-crime policies are failing our district.” According to the state Public Disclosure Commission, Tagoai has raised about $130,000 for this election.
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We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 32 includes part of King County and Snohomish County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 32 includes part of King County and Snohomish County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
In addition to being the incumbent Senator in the 32nd Legislative District, Jesse Salomon is a part-time public defender with King County. Before his election to the state Legislature in 2018, Salomon, a Democrat, served on the Shoreline City Council. Last year, he proposed a bill eliminating the ability of arbitrators to overturn disciplinary measures imposed on police officers, a measure backed by the American Civil Liberties Union. Read Crosscut’s story here. He has been endorsed by the Sierra Club, Alliance for Gun Responsibility and more than a dozen local unions and officials. Salomon has raised more than $165,000 for the race.
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Jesse Salomon
In addition to being the incumbent Senator in the 32nd Legislative District, Jesse Salomon is a part-time public defender with King County. Before his election to the state Legislature in 2018, Salomon, a Democrat, served on the Shoreline City Council. Last year, he proposed a bill eliminating the ability of arbitrators to overturn disciplinary measures imposed on police officers, a measure backed by the American Civil Liberties Union. Read Crosscut’s story here. He has been endorsed by the Sierra Club, Alliance for Gun Responsibility and more than a dozen local unions and officials. Salomon has raised more than $165,000 for the race.
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Democrat Dr. Patricia Weber is challenging first-term Sen. Jesse Salomon for the 32nd Legislative District Senate seat. For more than three decades, Weber worked at Fircrest Residential Habilitation Center, a state facility for those with intellectual and other disabilities, according to her candidate statement. Weber, a pediatrician, calls health care a human right and supports a state health care system. She has racked up endorsements from the 32nd Legislative District Democrats, King County Democrats and the Salish Sea chapter of the Federation of Democratic Women. Weber wants to see the wealthiest individuals and businesses pay their fair share, while reducing the tax burden on middle- and lower-income households. She has raised over $18,000 for her campaign.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Patricia responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
Economy
In our issue survey, Patricia responded that we need to consider giving Washington taxpayers a recovery check or a monthly check for families.
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Patricia responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
Abortion
In our issue survey, Patricia responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
Policing
In our issue survey, Patricia responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
"Police who are trained but somehow fall short of this do not need to be immediately fired. Another aspect of the job should be offered. They deserve just as much support as we expect for ourselves."
Environment
In our issue survey, Patricia responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
Patricia Weber
Democrat Dr. Patricia Weber is challenging first-term Sen. Jesse Salomon for the 32nd Legislative District Senate seat. For more than three decades, Weber worked at Fircrest Residential Habilitation Center, a state facility for those with intellectual and other disabilities, according to her candidate statement. Weber, a pediatrician, calls health care a human right and supports a state health care system. She has racked up endorsements from the 32nd Legislative District Democrats, King County Democrats and the Salish Sea chapter of the Federation of Democratic Women. Weber wants to see the wealthiest individuals and businesses pay their fair share, while reducing the tax burden on middle- and lower-income households. She has raised over $18,000 for her campaign.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Patricia responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
Economy
In our issue survey, Patricia responded that we need to consider giving Washington taxpayers a recovery check or a monthly check for families.
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Patricia responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
Abortion
In our issue survey, Patricia responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
Policing
In our issue survey, Patricia responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
"Police who are trained but somehow fall short of this do not need to be immediately fired. Another aspect of the job should be offered. They deserve just as much support as we expect for ourselves."
Environment
In our issue survey, Patricia responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 32 includes part of King County and Snohomish County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 32 includes part of King County and Snohomish County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Incumbent Cindy Ryu was first elected to the Legislature in 2010. Before that, she served on the Shoreline City Council and has worked as an insurance agent and a small business owner. Last session, the Democrat sponsored legislation to curb catalytic converter theft and expand broadband access. Her sparse website doesn’t offer much in the way of priorities, but she has been endorsed by various mayors in the district, the Sierra Club, the Washington State Labor Council and the Snohomish County Democrats. The longtime senator has more than $97,000 for campaigning.
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Cindy Ryu
Incumbent Cindy Ryu was first elected to the Legislature in 2010. Before that, she served on the Shoreline City Council and has worked as an insurance agent and a small business owner. Last session, the Democrat sponsored legislation to curb catalytic converter theft and expand broadband access. Her sparse website doesn’t offer much in the way of priorities, but she has been endorsed by various mayors in the district, the Sierra Club, the Washington State Labor Council and the Snohomish County Democrats. The longtime senator has more than $97,000 for campaigning.
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Incumbent Cindy Ryu’s challenger in the 32nd District House race, Lori Theis, prefers the Election Integrity Party. Her candidate statement contains the similar, discredited message of many voter fraud conspiracy theorists that the state can’t verify that “voter rolls are clean; our ballot chain-of-custody is sound … our systems aren’t being misused….” Theis so far hasn’t raised any money for the race.
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Lori Theis
Incumbent Cindy Ryu’s challenger in the 32nd District House race, Lori Theis, prefers the Election Integrity Party. Her candidate statement contains the similar, discredited message of many voter fraud conspiracy theorists that the state can’t verify that “voter rolls are clean; our ballot chain-of-custody is sound … our systems aren’t being misused….” Theis so far hasn’t raised any money for the race.
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We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 32 includes part of King County and Snohomish County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 32 includes part of King County and Snohomish County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Lauren Davis is facing her third election after first winning her 32nd District House seat in 2018. In her time in the Legislature, she has been an advocate for changes in the way the state treats mental and behavioral health. Before serving in the Legislature, Davis helped found Washington Recovery Alliance after supporting a friend recovering from an alcohol and opiate addiction. She served as the group’s executive director. Read Crosscut’s story here. Davis has won her past two elections easily. She has about $59,000 on hand for the election.
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Lauren Davis
Lauren Davis is facing her third election after first winning her 32nd District House seat in 2018. In her time in the Legislature, she has been an advocate for changes in the way the state treats mental and behavioral health. Before serving in the Legislature, Davis helped found Washington Recovery Alliance after supporting a friend recovering from an alcohol and opiate addiction. She served as the group’s executive director. Read Crosscut’s story here. Davis has won her past two elections easily. She has about $59,000 on hand for the election.
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Republican Anthony Hubbard, who is incumbent Lauren Davis’ only opponent in the 32nd District, repeats the familiar claims of 2020 election fraud and that “your elected officials have an obligation to provide verifiable information so you can pursue and obtain that assurance,” according to his candidate statement. He has raised no money.
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Anthony Hubbard
Republican Anthony Hubbard, who is incumbent Lauren Davis’ only opponent in the 32nd District, repeats the familiar claims of 2020 election fraud and that “your elected officials have an obligation to provide verifiable information so you can pursue and obtain that assurance,” according to his candidate statement. He has raised no money.
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We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 33 includes part of King County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 33 includes part of King County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Karen Keiser and the other incumbents in the 33rd Legislative District aren’t facing any opponents this year. She has served as the district’s state senator since 2001, when she was appointed to the seat. Before that, she was a state representative. The former reporter also worked as a communications director of the Washington State Labor Council for two decades. A Democrat, she helped push through the state’s Paid Family and Medical Leave Law, which provides 12 weeks of paid leave. She has over $178,000 in the bank for the race.
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Karen Keiser
Karen Keiser and the other incumbents in the 33rd Legislative District aren’t facing any opponents this year. She has served as the district’s state senator since 2001, when she was appointed to the seat. Before that, she was a state representative. The former reporter also worked as a communications director of the Washington State Labor Council for two decades. A Democrat, she helped push through the state’s Paid Family and Medical Leave Law, which provides 12 weeks of paid leave. She has over $178,000 in the bank for the race.
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The Republican challenger for Senate in the 33rd Legislative District is Marliza Melzer, who served four years on the North Highline Unincorporated Area Council. She has worked in customer service in the grocery industry, as well as in health care and broadcasting. She says in her candidate statement that “current career politicians have no problems lying, destroying our economy, taxing us out of our homes and vehicles, supporting pro-crime policies, and policies that sexually groom our young children while at the same time labeling concerned parents as domestic terrorists.” According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Melzer has raised nearly $4,000 for her campaign.
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Marliza Melzer
The Republican challenger for Senate in the 33rd Legislative District is Marliza Melzer, who served four years on the North Highline Unincorporated Area Council. She has worked in customer service in the grocery industry, as well as in health care and broadcasting. She says in her candidate statement that “current career politicians have no problems lying, destroying our economy, taxing us out of our homes and vehicles, supporting pro-crime policies, and policies that sexually groom our young children while at the same time labeling concerned parents as domestic terrorists.” According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Melzer has raised nearly $4,000 for her campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 33 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 33 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Another long-time state representative, Tina Orwall has represented the 33rd Legislative District since 2009. Orwall, a Democrat, received a master’s of social work administration from the University of Washington and spent 20 years working in the mental health field. In recent legislative sessions, Orwall sponsored bills to establish a suicide prevention hotline to divert callers from police and legislation to require require rape kits be tested, tracked and stored. Read Crosscut’s coverage of the bills here and here. She has raised about $54,000 for the campaign, which has not drawn a challenger.
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We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Tina Orwall
Another long-time state representative, Tina Orwall has represented the 33rd Legislative District since 2009. Orwall, a Democrat, received a master’s of social work administration from the University of Washington and spent 20 years working in the mental health field. In recent legislative sessions, Orwall sponsored bills to establish a suicide prevention hotline to divert callers from police and legislation to require require rape kits be tested, tracked and stored. Read Crosscut’s coverage of the bills here and here. She has raised about $54,000 for the campaign, which has not drawn a challenger.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 33 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 33 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Mia Su-Ling Gregerson has represented the 33rd District since 2013. The former SeaTac City Council member has also worked as a business manager in the dental field. A Democrat, Gregerson has sponsored bills on “Bridging the Digital Divide” to increase access to computers in schools. She also has supported loosening restrictions on accessory dwelling units, also known as ADUs, and backyard cottages. And she advocated providing legal assistance for low-income tenants facing eviction. She helped establish Washington's first Office of Equity. Gregerson, like her fellow 33rd Legislative District seatmates, lacks an opponent this election. She has about $86,000 in the bank for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Mia responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"Removing and lowering the number of guns that have the capacity to kill people at a fast/high rate is a public health and public safety risk."
Economy
In our issue survey, Mia responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
"We know that basic forms of income that cover the needs of our most vulnerable will help all of society. Those dollars will flow directly to local businesses. When parents and aging seniors can pay for their daily expenses their mental health and physical health improves."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Mia responded that permanent affordable housing – not shelters – is the answer to both homelessness and housing affordability.
"We need more housing of all sizes in every community. We need wrap around services close to our housing. We need local governments to plan, permit and approve more housing density. Businesses need to weigh in and be part of the solution since they know workforce housing is part of the foundation of a healthy business."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Mia responded that the Washington Legislature should set aside some money to make abortion services available to all Washingtonians who want it and to support people coming to the state for an abortion.
"Women and especially women of color have historically been treated as second-class. I will do whatever I can to support and pass laws that protect and support women's rights."
Policing
In our issue survey, Mia responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
Environment
In our issue survey, Mia responded that new regulations with firm deadlines should use “a stick” to force the general population to give up gas-powered vehicles and heating with oil, natural gas and coal.
Mia Su-Ling Gregerson
Mia Su-Ling Gregerson has represented the 33rd District since 2013. The former SeaTac City Council member has also worked as a business manager in the dental field. A Democrat, Gregerson has sponsored bills on “Bridging the Digital Divide” to increase access to computers in schools. She also has supported loosening restrictions on accessory dwelling units, also known as ADUs, and backyard cottages. And she advocated providing legal assistance for low-income tenants facing eviction. She helped establish Washington's first Office of Equity. Gregerson, like her fellow 33rd Legislative District seatmates, lacks an opponent this election. She has about $86,000 in the bank for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Mia responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"Removing and lowering the number of guns that have the capacity to kill people at a fast/high rate is a public health and public safety risk."
Economy
In our issue survey, Mia responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
"We know that basic forms of income that cover the needs of our most vulnerable will help all of society. Those dollars will flow directly to local businesses. When parents and aging seniors can pay for their daily expenses their mental health and physical health improves."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Mia responded that permanent affordable housing – not shelters – is the answer to both homelessness and housing affordability.
"We need more housing of all sizes in every community. We need wrap around services close to our housing. We need local governments to plan, permit and approve more housing density. Businesses need to weigh in and be part of the solution since they know workforce housing is part of the foundation of a healthy business."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Mia responded that the Washington Legislature should set aside some money to make abortion services available to all Washingtonians who want it and to support people coming to the state for an abortion.
"Women and especially women of color have historically been treated as second-class. I will do whatever I can to support and pass laws that protect and support women's rights."
Policing
In our issue survey, Mia responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
Environment
In our issue survey, Mia responded that new regulations with firm deadlines should use “a stick” to force the general population to give up gas-powered vehicles and heating with oil, natural gas and coal.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 34 includes part of King County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 34 includes part of King County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Joe Nguyen was first elected to the 34th District Senate seat four years ago, becoming Washington’s first Vietnamese American state senator. His sparse election website doesn’t offer much insight into his priorities. In the candidate statement Nguyen submitted when filed to run for the seat, he cited endorsements from U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Planned Parenthood, Washington State Labor Council, Seattle Education Association and Alliance for Gun Responsibility. He has sponsored and supported bills aimed at curbing carbon emissions, increasing welfare benefits and imposing a tax on yearly incomes over $1 million. The technology consultant and nonprofit leader lost his bid last year to oust King County Executive Dow Constantine. He has raised about $222,000 for his reelection campaign.
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We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Joe Nguyen
Joe Nguyen was first elected to the 34th District Senate seat four years ago, becoming Washington’s first Vietnamese American state senator. His sparse election website doesn’t offer much insight into his priorities. In the candidate statement Nguyen submitted when filed to run for the seat, he cited endorsements from U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Planned Parenthood, Washington State Labor Council, Seattle Education Association and Alliance for Gun Responsibility. He has sponsored and supported bills aimed at curbing carbon emissions, increasing welfare benefits and imposing a tax on yearly incomes over $1 million. The technology consultant and nonprofit leader lost his bid last year to oust King County Executive Dow Constantine. He has raised about $222,000 for his reelection campaign.
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We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Republican John Potter is a paraeducator for the Highline School District. He lives in Burien and is also a landlord. According to his statement in the state voter guide, he embraces conservative values, including opposing abortion. He supports the entire Bill of Rights and says he thinks people should be able to say Merry Christmas “without fear of reprisal.” Potter does not have a campaign website. He has not raised any money for his campaign, according to the state Public Disclosure Commission.
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We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
John Potter
Republican John Potter is a paraeducator for the Highline School District. He lives in Burien and is also a landlord. According to his statement in the state voter guide, he embraces conservative values, including opposing abortion. He supports the entire Bill of Rights and says he thinks people should be able to say Merry Christmas “without fear of reprisal.” Potter does not have a campaign website. He has not raised any money for his campaign, according to the state Public Disclosure Commission.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 34 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 34 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
One of two Democrats hoping to capture the seat left open after state Rep. Eileen Cody’s retirement is Emily Alvarado. She is the former director of Seattle’s Office of Housing, where she said she led efforts to build thousands of affordable homes, protect renters and expand homeownership. The political newcomer and West Seattle resident has racked up endorsements from a nonprofit housing alliance, various unions and the Washington State Labor Council, along with the Seattle Education Association. Alvarado has a law degree from the University of Washington. After working for the city of Seattle, she went on to be an executive at a national affordable housing nonprofit. Along with affordable housing, Alvarado says she would prioritize health care and education, if elected. She has about $144,000 in the bank for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Emily responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
Economy
In our issue survey, Emily responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Emily responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
"Housing is a human right and permanent affordable housing is the solution to homelessness and housing affordability."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Emily responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
Policing
In our issue survey, Emily responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
"Police training and accountability are essential as is investing in appropriate alternatives to law enforcement."
Environment
In our issue survey, Emily responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
Emily Alvarado
One of two Democrats hoping to capture the seat left open after state Rep. Eileen Cody’s retirement is Emily Alvarado. She is the former director of Seattle’s Office of Housing, where she said she led efforts to build thousands of affordable homes, protect renters and expand homeownership. The political newcomer and West Seattle resident has racked up endorsements from a nonprofit housing alliance, various unions and the Washington State Labor Council, along with the Seattle Education Association. Alvarado has a law degree from the University of Washington. After working for the city of Seattle, she went on to be an executive at a national affordable housing nonprofit. Along with affordable housing, Alvarado says she would prioritize health care and education, if elected. She has about $144,000 in the bank for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Emily responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
Economy
In our issue survey, Emily responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Emily responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
"Housing is a human right and permanent affordable housing is the solution to homelessness and housing affordability."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Emily responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
Policing
In our issue survey, Emily responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
"Police training and accountability are essential as is investing in appropriate alternatives to law enforcement."
Environment
In our issue survey, Emily responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
Leah Griffin is one of two Democrats vying for the position left open by the retirement of long-time state Rep. Eileen Cody. After Griffin was raped, she formed a group that pushed through legislation requiring rape kits be tested, tracked and stored, along with clearing the backlog of untested kits. Read Crosscut’s coverage here. Griffin, who serves as a committee chair of the National Women’s Political Caucus of Washington, wants to pass state legislation to increase access to abortion health care. Concerning housing affordability, another Griffin priority, she wants to shift from incentivizing private developers to building public developments. Endorsements come from groups supporting women’s rights, as well as local unions and Democratic groups. The certified school librarian has raised more than $118,000 for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Leah responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"As an endorsed candidate of the Alliance for Gun Responsibility, I believe we should encourage safe storage, and enact universal licensing requirements within firearm training. We need to implement stricter background checks, lost and stolen firearm reporting laws, and stricter gun licensing laws."
Economy
In our issue survey, Leah responded that we need to consider giving Washington taxpayers a recovery check or a monthly check for families.
"I also support additional help for small businesses, and an exploration of universal basic income."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Leah responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
Abortion
In our issue survey, Leah responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"I am currently organizing with the Keep Our Care Act coalition to prevent hospital mergers that limit abortion access. I will do everything I can to ensure that abortion is protected as a legal right, healthcare professionals and patients at reproductive-health clinics are protected, and funding is increased for abortion healthcare."
Policing
In our issue survey, Leah responded that more law enforcement jobs need to be reassigned to social workers and other service providers.
Environment
In our issue survey, Leah responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
Leah Griffin
Leah Griffin is one of two Democrats vying for the position left open by the retirement of long-time state Rep. Eileen Cody. After Griffin was raped, she formed a group that pushed through legislation requiring rape kits be tested, tracked and stored, along with clearing the backlog of untested kits. Read Crosscut’s coverage here. Griffin, who serves as a committee chair of the National Women’s Political Caucus of Washington, wants to pass state legislation to increase access to abortion health care. Concerning housing affordability, another Griffin priority, she wants to shift from incentivizing private developers to building public developments. Endorsements come from groups supporting women’s rights, as well as local unions and Democratic groups. The certified school librarian has raised more than $118,000 for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Leah responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"As an endorsed candidate of the Alliance for Gun Responsibility, I believe we should encourage safe storage, and enact universal licensing requirements within firearm training. We need to implement stricter background checks, lost and stolen firearm reporting laws, and stricter gun licensing laws."
Economy
In our issue survey, Leah responded that we need to consider giving Washington taxpayers a recovery check or a monthly check for families.
"I also support additional help for small businesses, and an exploration of universal basic income."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Leah responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
Abortion
In our issue survey, Leah responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"I am currently organizing with the Keep Our Care Act coalition to prevent hospital mergers that limit abortion access. I will do everything I can to ensure that abortion is protected as a legal right, healthcare professionals and patients at reproductive-health clinics are protected, and funding is increased for abortion healthcare."
Policing
In our issue survey, Leah responded that more law enforcement jobs need to be reassigned to social workers and other service providers.
Environment
In our issue survey, Leah responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 34 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 34 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Andrew Pilloud, the Republican candidate for Position 2 representing the 34th Legislative District, lives in the Arbor Heights neighborhood of West Seattle and says his goal is “to leave Seattle a better place for my daughter,” according to his campaign site. He wants to increase the state budget for mental health services, something he considers essential for ending homelessness. He's also concerned about crime and gun violence, and believes everyone should have a right to choose whether to be vaccinated or wear a mask. He has raised about $2,400 for his campaign.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Andrew responded that Washington has overstepped its authority on gun regulations and state laws need to be pared back.
"The state has gone too far in restrictions on law abiding gun ownership and it is likely recent restrictions will be found unconstitutional. We should do more to enforce existing gun laws."
Economy
In our issue survey, Andrew responded that we need to lower taxes on businesses to get the economy growing and encourage more hiring.
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Andrew responded that lots more temporary shelters need to be built and operated around the state to get people off the streets.
"Homelessness is frequently a mental health and drug addiction problem, we need to address those issues."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Andrew responded that Washington already has strong abortion laws and nothing needs to be changed.
"I believe abortion should be legal until viability. We could do more to protect unborn children."
Policing
In our issue survey, Andrew responded: Crime is out of control. Let the cops do their jobs.
Environment
In our issue survey, Andrew responded that we have to carefully balance our priorities concerning climate legislation and the economy.
"Climate change is real."
Andrew Pilloud
Andrew Pilloud, the Republican candidate for Position 2 representing the 34th Legislative District, lives in the Arbor Heights neighborhood of West Seattle and says his goal is “to leave Seattle a better place for my daughter,” according to his campaign site. He wants to increase the state budget for mental health services, something he considers essential for ending homelessness. He's also concerned about crime and gun violence, and believes everyone should have a right to choose whether to be vaccinated or wear a mask. He has raised about $2,400 for his campaign.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Andrew responded that Washington has overstepped its authority on gun regulations and state laws need to be pared back.
"The state has gone too far in restrictions on law abiding gun ownership and it is likely recent restrictions will be found unconstitutional. We should do more to enforce existing gun laws."
Economy
In our issue survey, Andrew responded that we need to lower taxes on businesses to get the economy growing and encourage more hiring.
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Andrew responded that lots more temporary shelters need to be built and operated around the state to get people off the streets.
"Homelessness is frequently a mental health and drug addiction problem, we need to address those issues."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Andrew responded that Washington already has strong abortion laws and nothing needs to be changed.
"I believe abortion should be legal until viability. We could do more to protect unborn children."
Policing
In our issue survey, Andrew responded: Crime is out of control. Let the cops do their jobs.
Environment
In our issue survey, Andrew responded that we have to carefully balance our priorities concerning climate legislation and the economy.
"Climate change is real."
Joe Fitzgibbon has held this position in the 34th Legislative District since 2010. He ran unopposed two years ago. Fitzgibbon is a former member of Futurewise, a group that advocates for policies to combat climate change and urban sprawl. He has helped pass legislation to establish a clean fuel standard and stronger state greenhouse gas reduction goals. Fitzgibbon has also supported legislation that aims to address the region’s housing shortage and has been a vocal advocate of expanding transit. He has raised about $184,000 for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Joe responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
Economy
In our issue survey, Joe responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Joe responded that permanent affordable housing – not shelters – is the answer to both homelessness and housing affordability.
Abortion
In our issue survey, Joe responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
Policing
In our issue survey, Joe responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
Environment
In our issue survey, Joe responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
Joe Fitzgibbon
Joe Fitzgibbon has held this position in the 34th Legislative District since 2010. He ran unopposed two years ago. Fitzgibbon is a former member of Futurewise, a group that advocates for policies to combat climate change and urban sprawl. He has helped pass legislation to establish a clean fuel standard and stronger state greenhouse gas reduction goals. Fitzgibbon has also supported legislation that aims to address the region’s housing shortage and has been a vocal advocate of expanding transit. He has raised about $184,000 for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Joe responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
Economy
In our issue survey, Joe responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Joe responded that permanent affordable housing – not shelters – is the answer to both homelessness and housing affordability.
Abortion
In our issue survey, Joe responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
Policing
In our issue survey, Joe responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
Environment
In our issue survey, Joe responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 36 includes part of King County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 36 includes part of King County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Noel Frame has been in the Washington House since 2016 and is now eyeing the Senate seat representing the 36th District, with hopes of replacing long-time Sen. Reuven Carlyle, who is retiring. Before joining the state Legislature, she was director of a progresive organization that recruited and trained candidates to run for office. The Democrat co-chairs the bipartisan Tax Structure Work Group, which develops proposals to revamp Washington’s tax code. Frame has also played a major role in several juvenile justice reform bills and measures to improve the life of children in foster care. Frame has raised about $146,000 for the race.
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Noel Frame
Noel Frame has been in the Washington House since 2016 and is now eyeing the Senate seat representing the 36th District, with hopes of replacing long-time Sen. Reuven Carlyle, who is retiring. Before joining the state Legislature, she was director of a progresive organization that recruited and trained candidates to run for office. The Democrat co-chairs the bipartisan Tax Structure Work Group, which develops proposals to revamp Washington’s tax code. Frame has also played a major role in several juvenile justice reform bills and measures to improve the life of children in foster care. Frame has raised about $146,000 for the race.
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Kate Martin, a Democrat running for the Senate seat representing the 36th Legislative District, is a planning and design consultant focusing on accessory dwelling units and outdoor spaces, according to her campaign site. Martin has been a Democrat, Republican and an independent. She believes that both parties, in order to craft sensible solutions, need to move to the center. She has raised about $5,000 for the race.
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We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Kate Martin
Kate Martin, a Democrat running for the Senate seat representing the 36th Legislative District, is a planning and design consultant focusing on accessory dwelling units and outdoor spaces, according to her campaign site. Martin has been a Democrat, Republican and an independent. She believes that both parties, in order to craft sensible solutions, need to move to the center. She has raised about $5,000 for the race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 36 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 36 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Jeff Manson, an administrative law judge, is a Democrat running for the open House seat in the 36th Legislative District. After law school, he represented low-income clients who were appealing cases in which state agencies were terminating the clients’ benefits. Mason has been endorsed by the Washington State Labor Council, 36th District Democrats, King County Democrats and Environment & Climate Caucus of the Washington State Democrats, along with several local unions. If elected, he says that to increase the building of housing he will support “smart density legislation” that prioritizes the construction of residential, business and leisure space within walking distance of public transport. He has raised more than $98,000 for the race. The PDC reports another $22,000 has been spent by others to promote his campaign.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Jeff responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"I also support full firearm licensing, increasing manufacturer and dealer accountability, and restoring local authority to enact commonsense safeguards."
Economy
In our issue survey, Jeff responded that we need to consider giving Washington taxpayers a recovery check or a monthly check for families.
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Jeff responded that permanent affordable housing – not shelters – is the answer to both homelessness and housing affordability.
"We also need to increase our housing stock, especially near transit corridors. However, increasing density does *not* require banning single family home zoning."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Jeff responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"WA should be a safe haven for those seeking medical care from other states."
Policing
In our issue survey, Jeff responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
"We must fully fund our criminal justice system, including the courts, prosecutors and defenders, social workers, health care providers, investigators, first responders, and law enforcement, while creating and maintaining police accountability standards, training, and independent enforcement. We must attack the root causes of criminal activity by funding mental health, behavioral health, addiction treatment, and Community Violence Intervention programs, while providing the housing and basic needs necessary to support individual recovery."
Environment
In our issue survey, Jeff responded that Washington needs to invest serious money in developing alternative energy sources and to encourage people to buy electric vehicles, invest in solar energy for their homes and switch from gas to electric to heat their homes.
"WA is leading the nation on climate change, but we must do more. It will require a mix of direct investments, incentives, and restrictions to significantly reduce our carbon emissions."
Jeff Manson
Jeff Manson, an administrative law judge, is a Democrat running for the open House seat in the 36th Legislative District. After law school, he represented low-income clients who were appealing cases in which state agencies were terminating the clients’ benefits. Mason has been endorsed by the Washington State Labor Council, 36th District Democrats, King County Democrats and Environment & Climate Caucus of the Washington State Democrats, along with several local unions. If elected, he says that to increase the building of housing he will support “smart density legislation” that prioritizes the construction of residential, business and leisure space within walking distance of public transport. He has raised more than $98,000 for the race. The PDC reports another $22,000 has been spent by others to promote his campaign.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Jeff responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"I also support full firearm licensing, increasing manufacturer and dealer accountability, and restoring local authority to enact commonsense safeguards."
Economy
In our issue survey, Jeff responded that we need to consider giving Washington taxpayers a recovery check or a monthly check for families.
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Jeff responded that permanent affordable housing – not shelters – is the answer to both homelessness and housing affordability.
"We also need to increase our housing stock, especially near transit corridors. However, increasing density does *not* require banning single family home zoning."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Jeff responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"WA should be a safe haven for those seeking medical care from other states."
Policing
In our issue survey, Jeff responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
"We must fully fund our criminal justice system, including the courts, prosecutors and defenders, social workers, health care providers, investigators, first responders, and law enforcement, while creating and maintaining police accountability standards, training, and independent enforcement. We must attack the root causes of criminal activity by funding mental health, behavioral health, addiction treatment, and Community Violence Intervention programs, while providing the housing and basic needs necessary to support individual recovery."
Environment
In our issue survey, Jeff responded that Washington needs to invest serious money in developing alternative energy sources and to encourage people to buy electric vehicles, invest in solar energy for their homes and switch from gas to electric to heat their homes.
"WA is leading the nation on climate change, but we must do more. It will require a mix of direct investments, incentives, and restrictions to significantly reduce our carbon emissions."
A newcomer running for the House in the 36th Legislative District is Julia Reed. The former 36th District Democratic chair is a consultant for businesses and nonprofits on expanding workplace diversity. She supports allowing duplexes, triplexes and backyard cottages in areas traditionally reserved for single-family homes. And she wants to increase funding for electrifying buses and ferries, while also expanding the network of electric car charging stations and subsidizing the purchase of electric bicycles. Reed also backs revamping Washington’s regressive tax structure. She has been endorsed by the Washington State Labor Council and the Washington chapter of the National Women’s Political Caucus, plus a few local unions. She has raised about $191,000 for her campaign.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Julia responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"Weapons of war have no place on our streets, at our schools, or in our homes. Guns make our communities and each other less safe, and we need to be doing everything we can to stop gun violence. We must also engage in more education and intervention to prevent guns from entering our communities, the hands of young people, and those experiencing crisis."
Economy
In our issue survey, Julia responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
"Jurisidictions across the nation have been piloting universal basic income programs with strong results. In the 36th, Rep Liz Berry has proposed a statewide UBI pilot. Universal Basic Income can be a potent policy tool to combat extreme poverty and I think our state should explore it as part of our response to create an economy that works for everyone."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Julia responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
"Research shows us that the greatest predictor of homelessness in a city is its level of affordable rental housing. We see that reality on our streets every day -- as the housing crisis gets worse at all levels, so too does the homelessness crisis. Housing is an essential component of healthy and safe communities, and yet Washington State has the fewest number of housing units per household of any state in the nation. We cannot thrive as a state without addressing the need for housing in our communities."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Julia responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"We are fortunate to have laws protecting the right to abortion access in Washington, but laws can change. And even with our existing state protections, there are areas of Washington state with no abortion clinics, and areas only served by religious hospital systems that restrict abortion access. That means there are too many women in Washington with the legal ability, but not the actual ability to exercise their right to reproductive freedom. There is no more fundamental right than the right to decide your own reproductive choices, and a constitutional amendment will protect that right."
Policing
In our issue survey, Julia responded that more law enforcement jobs need to be reassigned to social workers and other service providers.
"Our current system of addressing crime – cycling people in and out of jail, years-long backlogs before a case is heard, violent crimes not being addressed because detectives are being pulled off of cases to do street patrol, limited access to counseling, mental healthcare, and community-based rehabilitation programs – is not working, and we see the evidence of that on our streets every day. We can’t just double down on more of the same and expect different results. We should invest in not only addressing but preventing criminal activity, by scaling effective solutions like the work of Community Passageways and Choose 180 right here in Seattle. We should invest in more advocates and victim services for victims of rape, sexual assault, and domestic and partner violence, fast tracking those cases to ensure people have protection and real access to justice. And we should address the scarcity and poverty that is at the root of so much low-level crime. Lack of access to jobs, education, housing, mental and physical healthcare, food, lead to increases in crime in our communities. The legislature’s responsibility is to address scarcity in our state, and as a legislator this will be a priority."
Environment
In our issue survey, Julia responded that new regulations with firm deadlines should use “a stick” to force the general population to give up gas-powered vehicles and heating with oil, natural gas and coal.
"We have the intelligence and resources to make a just transition away from coal, oil, and natural gas without harming our workers and economy. Carbon free transportation and energy is the future, and we should be leading the way to prepare for that future today."
Julia G. Reed
A newcomer running for the House in the 36th Legislative District is Julia Reed. The former 36th District Democratic chair is a consultant for businesses and nonprofits on expanding workplace diversity. She supports allowing duplexes, triplexes and backyard cottages in areas traditionally reserved for single-family homes. And she wants to increase funding for electrifying buses and ferries, while also expanding the network of electric car charging stations and subsidizing the purchase of electric bicycles. Reed also backs revamping Washington’s regressive tax structure. She has been endorsed by the Washington State Labor Council and the Washington chapter of the National Women’s Political Caucus, plus a few local unions. She has raised about $191,000 for her campaign.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Julia responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"Weapons of war have no place on our streets, at our schools, or in our homes. Guns make our communities and each other less safe, and we need to be doing everything we can to stop gun violence. We must also engage in more education and intervention to prevent guns from entering our communities, the hands of young people, and those experiencing crisis."
Economy
In our issue survey, Julia responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
"Jurisidictions across the nation have been piloting universal basic income programs with strong results. In the 36th, Rep Liz Berry has proposed a statewide UBI pilot. Universal Basic Income can be a potent policy tool to combat extreme poverty and I think our state should explore it as part of our response to create an economy that works for everyone."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Julia responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
"Research shows us that the greatest predictor of homelessness in a city is its level of affordable rental housing. We see that reality on our streets every day -- as the housing crisis gets worse at all levels, so too does the homelessness crisis. Housing is an essential component of healthy and safe communities, and yet Washington State has the fewest number of housing units per household of any state in the nation. We cannot thrive as a state without addressing the need for housing in our communities."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Julia responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"We are fortunate to have laws protecting the right to abortion access in Washington, but laws can change. And even with our existing state protections, there are areas of Washington state with no abortion clinics, and areas only served by religious hospital systems that restrict abortion access. That means there are too many women in Washington with the legal ability, but not the actual ability to exercise their right to reproductive freedom. There is no more fundamental right than the right to decide your own reproductive choices, and a constitutional amendment will protect that right."
Policing
In our issue survey, Julia responded that more law enforcement jobs need to be reassigned to social workers and other service providers.
"Our current system of addressing crime – cycling people in and out of jail, years-long backlogs before a case is heard, violent crimes not being addressed because detectives are being pulled off of cases to do street patrol, limited access to counseling, mental healthcare, and community-based rehabilitation programs – is not working, and we see the evidence of that on our streets every day. We can’t just double down on more of the same and expect different results. We should invest in not only addressing but preventing criminal activity, by scaling effective solutions like the work of Community Passageways and Choose 180 right here in Seattle. We should invest in more advocates and victim services for victims of rape, sexual assault, and domestic and partner violence, fast tracking those cases to ensure people have protection and real access to justice. And we should address the scarcity and poverty that is at the root of so much low-level crime. Lack of access to jobs, education, housing, mental and physical healthcare, food, lead to increases in crime in our communities. The legislature’s responsibility is to address scarcity in our state, and as a legislator this will be a priority."
Environment
In our issue survey, Julia responded that new regulations with firm deadlines should use “a stick” to force the general population to give up gas-powered vehicles and heating with oil, natural gas and coal.
"We have the intelligence and resources to make a just transition away from coal, oil, and natural gas without harming our workers and economy. Carbon free transportation and energy is the future, and we should be leading the way to prepare for that future today."
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 36 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 36 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Running for reelection for her second term this fall, Liz Berry is unopposed. During her first legislative session, Berry sponsored and supported bills to strengthen gun control laws, build affordable housing quickly and establish a guaranteed basic income for low-income residents. The Democrat supports increasing funding for electrifying ferries and building bike and pedestrian infrastructure. The one-time legislative aide to former U.S. Rep. Gabby Giffords of Arizona has also served on the board of Pro-Choice Washington and is a self-described lifelong reproductive justice advocate. Berry has about $124,000 in the bank for her campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Liz Berry
Running for reelection for her second term this fall, Liz Berry is unopposed. During her first legislative session, Berry sponsored and supported bills to strengthen gun control laws, build affordable housing quickly and establish a guaranteed basic income for low-income residents. The Democrat supports increasing funding for electrifying ferries and building bike and pedestrian infrastructure. The one-time legislative aide to former U.S. Rep. Gabby Giffords of Arizona has also served on the board of Pro-Choice Washington and is a self-described lifelong reproductive justice advocate. Berry has about $124,000 in the bank for her campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 37 includes part of King County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 37 includes part of King County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Running unopposed for senator in the 37th Legislative District is Rebecca Saldaña. The Democrat was appointed to the seat in 2016, when U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal decided to run for Congress. Saldaña was challenged but held the seat a year later and later won reelection with nearly 90% of the vote. As vice chair of the state Senate Transportation Committee, she pushed to expand funding for nonmotorized transportation and public transportation, ensuring the recent transportation package paid for more than just highways and roads. Saldaña was executive director of Puget Sound Sage, an advocacy organization for workers and immigrants. Her campaign has raised about $175,000 for the race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Rebecca Saldaña
Running unopposed for senator in the 37th Legislative District is Rebecca Saldaña. The Democrat was appointed to the seat in 2016, when U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal decided to run for Congress. Saldaña was challenged but held the seat a year later and later won reelection with nearly 90% of the vote. As vice chair of the state Senate Transportation Committee, she pushed to expand funding for nonmotorized transportation and public transportation, ensuring the recent transportation package paid for more than just highways and roads. Saldaña was executive director of Puget Sound Sage, an advocacy organization for workers and immigrants. Her campaign has raised about $175,000 for the race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 37 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 37 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Since taking office in 1999, Sharon Tomiko Santos has cruised to victory in reelection campaigns. The former banker and nonprofit manager is a founding member of the Washington Tax Fairness Coalition, advocating for a more progressive tax structure to pay for schools. Santos is the longest-serving legislator of color in Washington state history. She chairs the House Education Committee and has been endorsed by the Seattle Education Association and the Washington State Labor Council, along with various local unions and Democratic groups. The longtime representative has about $72,000 on hand for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"I see no purpose or need for military-style assault weapons in civil society."
Economy
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that the Legislature should consider some incentives and financial help to get businesses back on their feet.
"In fact, my point of view falls somewhere between (C) financial incentives and supports for business and (D) recovery subsidies for taxpayers and families. For both concepts, the key feature must be support which is targetted."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
"I believe that housing is a fundamental human right. The lack of affordable options for all is a failure of society and of government."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"According to recent surveys, more than 60% of Washington voters believe that access to comprehensive reproductive services, including abortion, is very important. This right to individual liberty and individual freedom is best protected explicitly within the Constitution."
Policing
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that more law enforcement jobs need to be reassigned to social workers and other service providers.
"I think we need to radically rethink how to deliver the essential services related to public health and public safety. The police cannot and should not be a municipal militia, but a workforce of civil servants empowered to protect the public through the consent of the governed. At the same time, the police should expand its workforce of professional community service officers who assist people in crisis to access needed services."
Environment
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that Washington needs to invest serious money in developing alternative energy sources and to encourage people to buy electric vehicles, invest in solar energy for their homes and switch from gas to electric to heat their homes.
"I believe that Washington can and should do its part to aggressive invest in alternative energy sources and in tangible assets that depend on clean energy. While I believe that the state should consider triggers for mandates on industry sectors that contribute the most to CO2 emissions, I prefer incentives to facilitate the conversion of individual consumers to clean energy sources. In particular, the state must recognize and mitigate against the potential of any policy to negatively and disproportionately affect poor people and lower income consumers."
Sharon Tomiko Santos
Since taking office in 1999, Sharon Tomiko Santos has cruised to victory in reelection campaigns. The former banker and nonprofit manager is a founding member of the Washington Tax Fairness Coalition, advocating for a more progressive tax structure to pay for schools. Santos is the longest-serving legislator of color in Washington state history. She chairs the House Education Committee and has been endorsed by the Seattle Education Association and the Washington State Labor Council, along with various local unions and Democratic groups. The longtime representative has about $72,000 on hand for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"I see no purpose or need for military-style assault weapons in civil society."
Economy
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that the Legislature should consider some incentives and financial help to get businesses back on their feet.
"In fact, my point of view falls somewhere between (C) financial incentives and supports for business and (D) recovery subsidies for taxpayers and families. For both concepts, the key feature must be support which is targetted."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
"I believe that housing is a fundamental human right. The lack of affordable options for all is a failure of society and of government."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"According to recent surveys, more than 60% of Washington voters believe that access to comprehensive reproductive services, including abortion, is very important. This right to individual liberty and individual freedom is best protected explicitly within the Constitution."
Policing
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that more law enforcement jobs need to be reassigned to social workers and other service providers.
"I think we need to radically rethink how to deliver the essential services related to public health and public safety. The police cannot and should not be a municipal militia, but a workforce of civil servants empowered to protect the public through the consent of the governed. At the same time, the police should expand its workforce of professional community service officers who assist people in crisis to access needed services."
Environment
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that Washington needs to invest serious money in developing alternative energy sources and to encourage people to buy electric vehicles, invest in solar energy for their homes and switch from gas to electric to heat their homes.
"I believe that Washington can and should do its part to aggressive invest in alternative energy sources and in tangible assets that depend on clean energy. While I believe that the state should consider triggers for mandates on industry sectors that contribute the most to CO2 emissions, I prefer incentives to facilitate the conversion of individual consumers to clean energy sources. In particular, the state must recognize and mitigate against the potential of any policy to negatively and disproportionately affect poor people and lower income consumers."
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 37 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 37 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Emijah Smith is running for the 37th District House seat left open when Rep. Kirsten Harris-Talley decided not to run for reelection. Smith’s platform includes more funding for schools, mental health care and affordable child care, according to her campaign site. Smith has spent years advocating for public education, health care access and housing for working families in South Seattle. She has served on committees to steer new policies in those areas. The former medical assistant at the Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic has also served as PTSA president for Mercer Middle School. Smith raked in endorsements from King County Councilmember Girmay Zahilay and Seattle City Councilmember Tammy Morales. She has raised more than $114,000 for her race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Emijah responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"Average people do not have a use for assault weapons and military style weapons. These weapons are also commonly used for mass shootings, and they do not have a place in our communities. We have to do everything we can to stop mass shootings and a part of that is to ban these kinds of weapons."
Economy
In our issue survey, Emijah responded that we need to consider giving Washington taxpayers a recovery check or a monthly check for families.
"Washington families and workers have been hit incredibly hard the past years during COVID and before and deserve a break. Especially now with record high inflation, we need to get serious as a state about ensuring Washington's families can make ends meet. The basic income, or universal basic income, is an interesting concept and I look forward to learning more about the proposed bill by Rep Liz Berry and seeing what our state can learn from other basic income pilots in North America like those in California and Canada."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Emijah responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
"I believe housing is a human right and we all have not only a basic right to shelter, but we as Washingtonians have a right to have a home and be part of our community. I believe part of the way we can achieve this vision is to invest more in permanently affordable housing, housing co-ops, topping up our state housing trust fund, and encouraging municipalities to zone for more housing in shapes that fit our neighborhoods. We all deserve to be treated with dignity regardless of our class or type of housing we live in."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Emijah responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"All people have a right to basic healthcare, and I consider abortion services an essential medical procedure that all people must have access to. Everyone, including those coming to Washington seeking equitable healthcare access, have the fundamental right to decide how they want to care for their bodies and their families. Reproductive justice and abortion access is more than just a medical procedure, it's a material demonstration of respecting others' choices, families, and cultures."
Policing
In our issue survey, Emijah responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
"As an advocate and mother, I think often about how we can create truly safe communities and improve our experience of public safety. I believe this includes more thoughtful reinvestment of public funds to specialized crisis responders and better training for police officers. I hope these changes will result in a system where people who are experiencing mental health challenges and others get the immediate and non-escalating support they need."
Environment
In our issue survey, Emijah responded that Washington needs to invest serious money in developing alternative energy sources and to encourage people to buy electric vehicles, invest in solar energy for their homes and switch from gas to electric to heat their homes.
"I believe Washington State can and should be a national leader in the transition to a low-carbon economy. This transition should not be on the backs of working people, but instead should be built upon accessible programs that reduce financial burden and encourage energy transition. In our fight against the climate crisis we have stay consistent with our values of creating good (union!) jobs in new low-carbon industries and investing in a better quality of life for all Washingtonians regardless of income."
Emijah Smith
Emijah Smith is running for the 37th District House seat left open when Rep. Kirsten Harris-Talley decided not to run for reelection. Smith’s platform includes more funding for schools, mental health care and affordable child care, according to her campaign site. Smith has spent years advocating for public education, health care access and housing for working families in South Seattle. She has served on committees to steer new policies in those areas. The former medical assistant at the Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic has also served as PTSA president for Mercer Middle School. Smith raked in endorsements from King County Councilmember Girmay Zahilay and Seattle City Councilmember Tammy Morales. She has raised more than $114,000 for her race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Emijah responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"Average people do not have a use for assault weapons and military style weapons. These weapons are also commonly used for mass shootings, and they do not have a place in our communities. We have to do everything we can to stop mass shootings and a part of that is to ban these kinds of weapons."
Economy
In our issue survey, Emijah responded that we need to consider giving Washington taxpayers a recovery check or a monthly check for families.
"Washington families and workers have been hit incredibly hard the past years during COVID and before and deserve a break. Especially now with record high inflation, we need to get serious as a state about ensuring Washington's families can make ends meet. The basic income, or universal basic income, is an interesting concept and I look forward to learning more about the proposed bill by Rep Liz Berry and seeing what our state can learn from other basic income pilots in North America like those in California and Canada."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Emijah responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
"I believe housing is a human right and we all have not only a basic right to shelter, but we as Washingtonians have a right to have a home and be part of our community. I believe part of the way we can achieve this vision is to invest more in permanently affordable housing, housing co-ops, topping up our state housing trust fund, and encouraging municipalities to zone for more housing in shapes that fit our neighborhoods. We all deserve to be treated with dignity regardless of our class or type of housing we live in."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Emijah responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"All people have a right to basic healthcare, and I consider abortion services an essential medical procedure that all people must have access to. Everyone, including those coming to Washington seeking equitable healthcare access, have the fundamental right to decide how they want to care for their bodies and their families. Reproductive justice and abortion access is more than just a medical procedure, it's a material demonstration of respecting others' choices, families, and cultures."
Policing
In our issue survey, Emijah responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
"As an advocate and mother, I think often about how we can create truly safe communities and improve our experience of public safety. I believe this includes more thoughtful reinvestment of public funds to specialized crisis responders and better training for police officers. I hope these changes will result in a system where people who are experiencing mental health challenges and others get the immediate and non-escalating support they need."
Environment
In our issue survey, Emijah responded that Washington needs to invest serious money in developing alternative energy sources and to encourage people to buy electric vehicles, invest in solar energy for their homes and switch from gas to electric to heat their homes.
"I believe Washington State can and should be a national leader in the transition to a low-carbon economy. This transition should not be on the backs of working people, but instead should be built upon accessible programs that reduce financial burden and encourage energy transition. In our fight against the climate crisis we have stay consistent with our values of creating good (union!) jobs in new low-carbon industries and investing in a better quality of life for all Washingtonians regardless of income."
Chipalo Street, who works at Microsoft as a chief technology officer advising on emerging technologies, is competing for the 37th District House seat left open when Rep. Kirsten Harris-Talley said she wasn’t running for reelection. He co-founded an organization to connect volunteers with technology and computer science experience with Black and brown students in South Seattle, according to his campaign site. The site also lists as priorities expanding access to quality early education and providing two years of college. He also wants to do away with single-family zoning near transit-rich areas to increase the building of missing middle housing, which can range from duplexes and backyard cottages to small apartment buildings. Endorsements come from port commissioners and a few former and current state representatives. So far, Street has raised about $133,000 for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Chipalo responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"I have lost multiple friends to gun violence, starting in 7th grade. I we must find ways to protect our communities from gun violence."
Economy
In our issue survey, Chipalo responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Chipalo responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
Abortion
In our issue survey, Chipalo responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"I would love to sponsor a bill which enshrines reproductive rights into the state constitution."
Policing
In our issue survey, Chipalo responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
"We all deserve to feel safe in our neighborhoods. My experience getting beaten by the police drives me to increase accountability of those on the force, while also partnering with them to fight crime. We need to think more comprehensively about public safety as more than just police officers."
Environment
In our issue survey, Chipalo responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
Chipalo Street
Chipalo Street, who works at Microsoft as a chief technology officer advising on emerging technologies, is competing for the 37th District House seat left open when Rep. Kirsten Harris-Talley said she wasn’t running for reelection. He co-founded an organization to connect volunteers with technology and computer science experience with Black and brown students in South Seattle, according to his campaign site. The site also lists as priorities expanding access to quality early education and providing two years of college. He also wants to do away with single-family zoning near transit-rich areas to increase the building of missing middle housing, which can range from duplexes and backyard cottages to small apartment buildings. Endorsements come from port commissioners and a few former and current state representatives. So far, Street has raised about $133,000 for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Chipalo responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"I have lost multiple friends to gun violence, starting in 7th grade. I we must find ways to protect our communities from gun violence."
Economy
In our issue survey, Chipalo responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Chipalo responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
Abortion
In our issue survey, Chipalo responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"I would love to sponsor a bill which enshrines reproductive rights into the state constitution."
Policing
In our issue survey, Chipalo responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
"We all deserve to feel safe in our neighborhoods. My experience getting beaten by the police drives me to increase accountability of those on the force, while also partnering with them to fight crime. We need to think more comprehensively about public safety as more than just police officers."
Environment
In our issue survey, Chipalo responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 42 includes part of Whatcom County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 42 includes part of Whatcom County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Current state Sen. Simon Sefzik took office earlier this year, appointed to the position after the sitting senator, Doug Ericksen, died of COVID-19. The Republican, 22, is Washington's youngest-ever senator on record. During this past session, Sefzik supported bills that would temporarily suspend the gas tax and improve health care for low-income kids. If elected, he says he would advocate for legislation that reverses “extreme anti-police legislation and gives our law enforcement the resources and training they need to keep our communities safe.” His endorsements include the Washington Council of Police and Sheriffs, Whatcom County Republican Party and Young Republicans. He has raised over $692,000, but there have also been a lot of independent expenditures in this race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Simon Sefzik
Current state Sen. Simon Sefzik took office earlier this year, appointed to the position after the sitting senator, Doug Ericksen, died of COVID-19. The Republican, 22, is Washington's youngest-ever senator on record. During this past session, Sefzik supported bills that would temporarily suspend the gas tax and improve health care for low-income kids. If elected, he says he would advocate for legislation that reverses “extreme anti-police legislation and gives our law enforcement the resources and training they need to keep our communities safe.” His endorsements include the Washington Council of Police and Sheriffs, Whatcom County Republican Party and Young Republicans. He has raised over $692,000, but there have also been a lot of independent expenditures in this race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The Democratic challenger for the 42nd Legislative District Senate seat, Sharon Shewmake, is one of the district’s current state representatives. She has served one term in that chamber and now is looking to take the Senate seat. Shewmake is an economics professor at Western Washington University and a children’s book author. She lists as accomplishments passing COVID-19 relief for people experiencing homelessness, as well as housing assistance and the working families tax credit. Affordable housing and child care, along with access to clean and renewable solar, are among her priorities. Shewmake’s endorsements include the Washington State Labor Council, Washington State Education Association and a handful of health care, building, labor and trade unions and Democratic groups. She has raised over $509,000, but there have also been a large amount of independent expenditures in this race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that law enforcement should get new financial resources and technical help to take guns away from people who commit a felony or have been accused of domestic violence.
"I would also support a ban on semi-automatic weapons. We need reasonable gun regulations."
Economy
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that we need to consider giving Washington taxpayers a recovery check or a monthly check for families.
"Removing supply chain constraints, building more resilient supply chains and tackling affordable housing are also key components in battling inflation."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that lots more temporary shelters need to be built and operated around the state to get people off the streets.
"There is no ONE thing we can do to end homelessness. For some, shelters can help get back on their feet, for others permanently affordable housing is needed. For others it’s a mix of resources, sometimes small grants, mental health resources, substance use disorder treatment and other supports. We also have to work on the private market for affordable housing so people aren’t as vulnerable and can actually get some savings to deal with emergencies."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
Policing
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that let’s hire more police and put more money back into law enforcement budgets.
"None of these answers adequately reflect my views. We do need more police but the budgets were not cut. We also need more social service supports and policies that get at the roots of crime to provide true public safety. Also crime stinks, nobody likes it and often the folks that are most vulnerable to crime are those that are most vulnerable in general."
Environment
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that we have to carefully balance our priorities concerning climate legislation and the economy.
"Climate change is a threat to every aspect of our economy and CO2 is emitted directly or indirectly through every sector of our economy. This is a deeply nerdy issue that requires planning, analysis and a lot of stakeholdering and listening to get right."
Sharon Shewmake
The Democratic challenger for the 42nd Legislative District Senate seat, Sharon Shewmake, is one of the district’s current state representatives. She has served one term in that chamber and now is looking to take the Senate seat. Shewmake is an economics professor at Western Washington University and a children’s book author. She lists as accomplishments passing COVID-19 relief for people experiencing homelessness, as well as housing assistance and the working families tax credit. Affordable housing and child care, along with access to clean and renewable solar, are among her priorities. Shewmake’s endorsements include the Washington State Labor Council, Washington State Education Association and a handful of health care, building, labor and trade unions and Democratic groups. She has raised over $509,000, but there have also been a large amount of independent expenditures in this race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that law enforcement should get new financial resources and technical help to take guns away from people who commit a felony or have been accused of domestic violence.
"I would also support a ban on semi-automatic weapons. We need reasonable gun regulations."
Economy
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that we need to consider giving Washington taxpayers a recovery check or a monthly check for families.
"Removing supply chain constraints, building more resilient supply chains and tackling affordable housing are also key components in battling inflation."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that lots more temporary shelters need to be built and operated around the state to get people off the streets.
"There is no ONE thing we can do to end homelessness. For some, shelters can help get back on their feet, for others permanently affordable housing is needed. For others it’s a mix of resources, sometimes small grants, mental health resources, substance use disorder treatment and other supports. We also have to work on the private market for affordable housing so people aren’t as vulnerable and can actually get some savings to deal with emergencies."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
Policing
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that let’s hire more police and put more money back into law enforcement budgets.
"None of these answers adequately reflect my views. We do need more police but the budgets were not cut. We also need more social service supports and policies that get at the roots of crime to provide true public safety. Also crime stinks, nobody likes it and often the folks that are most vulnerable to crime are those that are most vulnerable in general."
Environment
In our issue survey, Sharon responded that we have to carefully balance our priorities concerning climate legislation and the economy.
"Climate change is a threat to every aspect of our economy and CO2 is emitted directly or indirectly through every sector of our economy. This is a deeply nerdy issue that requires planning, analysis and a lot of stakeholdering and listening to get right."
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 42 includes part of Whatcom County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 42 includes part of Whatcom County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Position 1 is the only House seat in the 42nd Legislative District with an incumbent running. Alicia Rule, a Democrat who is serving her first term, hopes to keep her seat this fall. She owns a small therapy practice and before being elected to the statehouse, she sat on the Blaine City Council. “Dramatically increasing shelter to get people off the streets is a top priority,” she writes on her campaign website, “We must no longer allow so many Washingtonians to be homeless.” She is endorsed by the Washington State Labor Council, Pro-Choice Washington and health care, education, building and trade unions and Democratic groups. Rule has raised more than $408,000 but there also have been a lot of independent expenditures for this race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Alicia Rule
Position 1 is the only House seat in the 42nd Legislative District with an incumbent running. Alicia Rule, a Democrat who is serving her first term, hopes to keep her seat this fall. She owns a small therapy practice and before being elected to the statehouse, she sat on the Blaine City Council. “Dramatically increasing shelter to get people off the streets is a top priority,” she writes on her campaign website, “We must no longer allow so many Washingtonians to be homeless.” She is endorsed by the Washington State Labor Council, Pro-Choice Washington and health care, education, building and trade unions and Democratic groups. Rule has raised more than $408,000 but there also have been a lot of independent expenditures for this race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Tawsha Dykstra Thompson is a Republican challenging incumbent Rep. Alicia Rule for the 42nd Legislative District House seat. Thompson spent nearly 25 years in the Bellingham Police Department as an officer, detective and sergeant, according to her candidate statement. She lists disaster case manager as her current position. If elected, she said she would “fully support our police and first responders” and will be a “voice for those who have been canceled and intimidated and ignored. The silent majority deserves to be heard.” Her endorsements include WACOPS and a handful of local officials. Thompson has raised roughly $254,000 for this election but there have also been a lot of independent expenditures in the race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Tawsha (Dykstra) Thompson
Tawsha Dykstra Thompson is a Republican challenging incumbent Rep. Alicia Rule for the 42nd Legislative District House seat. Thompson spent nearly 25 years in the Bellingham Police Department as an officer, detective and sergeant, according to her candidate statement. She lists disaster case manager as her current position. If elected, she said she would “fully support our police and first responders” and will be a “voice for those who have been canceled and intimidated and ignored. The silent majority deserves to be heard.” Her endorsements include WACOPS and a handful of local officials. Thompson has raised roughly $254,000 for this election but there have also been a lot of independent expenditures in the race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 42 includes part of Whatcom County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 42 includes part of Whatcom County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Running as a Democrat for the 42nd Legislative District Position 2 seat in the House is Joe Timmons, who is a liaison for Gov. Jay Inslee’s office stationed in northwest Washington. Addressing climate change is a top priority for Timmons, and he wants to do that by decarbonizing our transportation sector and increasing energy efficiency, according to his campaign website. Timmons also believes in the need to “invest in mental health and support police so they can do their jobs, while having common-sense reforms to stop abuses of power.” Timmons racked up endorsements from several tribal groups, the Washington State Labor Council, Alliance for Gun Responsibility and local unions and Democratic groups. He has raised about $313,000 for the race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Joe Timmons
Running as a Democrat for the 42nd Legislative District Position 2 seat in the House is Joe Timmons, who is a liaison for Gov. Jay Inslee’s office stationed in northwest Washington. Addressing climate change is a top priority for Timmons, and he wants to do that by decarbonizing our transportation sector and increasing energy efficiency, according to his campaign website. Timmons also believes in the need to “invest in mental health and support police so they can do their jobs, while having common-sense reforms to stop abuses of power.” Timmons racked up endorsements from several tribal groups, the Washington State Labor Council, Alliance for Gun Responsibility and local unions and Democratic groups. He has raised about $313,000 for the race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Dan Johnson, who is running as a Republican for the 42nd Legislative District Position 2 in the House, spent four years in the Marine Corps. He then ran a towing and recovery business for over two decades. Johnson hosts the online video cast The Hook News and Information, which focuses on politics and current events. His campaign website is light on his priorities. In his candidate statement he wrote that “police reform has contributed to a statewide crime wave.” With the late Sen. Doug Ericksen, Johnson co-wrote a DUI bill titled Hailey’s Law. If elected, he said he would use his business and military background to bring private sector solutions to government problems. The small business owner has raised about $190,000 for his campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Dan Johnson
Dan Johnson, who is running as a Republican for the 42nd Legislative District Position 2 in the House, spent four years in the Marine Corps. He then ran a towing and recovery business for over two decades. Johnson hosts the online video cast The Hook News and Information, which focuses on politics and current events. His campaign website is light on his priorities. In his candidate statement he wrote that “police reform has contributed to a statewide crime wave.” With the late Sen. Doug Ericksen, Johnson co-wrote a DUI bill titled Hailey’s Law. If elected, he said he would use his business and military background to bring private sector solutions to government problems. The small business owner has raised about $190,000 for his campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 43 includes part of King County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 43 includes part of King County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Jamie Pedersen, like the other incumbents in the 43rd Legislative District, faces no opponents this year. He has served in the Senate since 2013. Before that, he was a state representative in the district. Pedersen, a lawyer, is employed by McKinstry, a Seattle-based construction and engineering firm. He supports the capital gain tax and hopes the passage of it leads to a state income tax. In the past few sessions, Pedersen has supported bills to reform the criminal justice system, including limits on police tactics from chokeholds to use of tear gas. He also has supported measures to reduce carbon emissions and strengthen gun laws. The longtime senator has over $152,000 on hand for the uncontested race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Jamie Pedersen
Jamie Pedersen, like the other incumbents in the 43rd Legislative District, faces no opponents this year. He has served in the Senate since 2013. Before that, he was a state representative in the district. Pedersen, a lawyer, is employed by McKinstry, a Seattle-based construction and engineering firm. He supports the capital gain tax and hopes the passage of it leads to a state income tax. In the past few sessions, Pedersen has supported bills to reform the criminal justice system, including limits on police tactics from chokeholds to use of tear gas. He also has supported measures to reduce carbon emissions and strengthen gun laws. The longtime senator has over $152,000 on hand for the uncontested race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 43 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 43 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Nicole Macri first took office in 2017 and easily won two reelections since. In the week leading up to ballots being sent to voters, Macri’s campaign website was still in its final edits. She has no opponents in this race. Macri has pushed for ending the state’s ban on rent control and for strengthening tenant protections. She has been a strong progressive voice for issues surrounding affordable housing, homelessness and behavioral health. Macri is the deputy director of the Downtown Emergency Service Center, which promotes a housing first model and has been a strong advocate for increasing spending on homeless services and affordable housing. Marci has more than $91,000 in the bank for her campaign.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Nicole responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
Economy
In our issue survey, Nicole responded that we need to consider giving Washington taxpayers a recovery check or a monthly check for families.
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Nicole responded that permanent affordable housing – not shelters – is the answer to both homelessness and housing affordability.
Abortion
In our issue survey, Nicole responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
Policing
In our issue survey, Nicole responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
Environment
In our issue survey, Nicole responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
Nicole Macri
Nicole Macri first took office in 2017 and easily won two reelections since. In the week leading up to ballots being sent to voters, Macri’s campaign website was still in its final edits. She has no opponents in this race. Macri has pushed for ending the state’s ban on rent control and for strengthening tenant protections. She has been a strong progressive voice for issues surrounding affordable housing, homelessness and behavioral health. Macri is the deputy director of the Downtown Emergency Service Center, which promotes a housing first model and has been a strong advocate for increasing spending on homeless services and affordable housing. Marci has more than $91,000 in the bank for her campaign.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Nicole responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
Economy
In our issue survey, Nicole responded that we need to consider giving Washington taxpayers a recovery check or a monthly check for families.
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Nicole responded that permanent affordable housing – not shelters – is the answer to both homelessness and housing affordability.
Abortion
In our issue survey, Nicole responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
Policing
In our issue survey, Nicole responded that police training needs to do a better job in the areas of deescalation, crisis intervention, use of force. Cops who are trained in these areas but fail on the job in some way should be fired.
Environment
In our issue survey, Nicole responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 43 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 43 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Frank Chopp first took office in the statehouse in 1995. He served as speaker of the House for two decades, stepping down in 2019. He is running unopposed this election. Like his seatmate, Nicole Macri, Chopp has sponsored bills that increased funding for homeless services and expanded paid leave. He also supports expanding tenant rights and rental assistance, as well as providing free college tuition to those families who cannot afford a higher education. He has raised about $20,000 for the race.
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Frank Chopp
Frank Chopp first took office in the statehouse in 1995. He served as speaker of the House for two decades, stepping down in 2019. He is running unopposed this election. Like his seatmate, Nicole Macri, Chopp has sponsored bills that increased funding for homeless services and expanded paid leave. He also supports expanding tenant rights and rental assistance, as well as providing free college tuition to those families who cannot afford a higher education. He has raised about $20,000 for the race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 46 includes part of King County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 46 includes part of King County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Matthew Gross, a King County deputy prosecuting attorney, is running as a Democrat in the 46th Legislative District Senate race to replace Sen. David Frockt, who is retiring from the Legislature. “As a prosecutor, I believe strongly in individual accountability but cracking down on low-level crime is not the best way to make us safer,” he wrote in his campaign statement. He wants to increase funding for mental health care and drug treatment. He also wants to slightly increase density in single-family neighborhoods, while upping yearly spending on building and acquiring new units of affordable housing. Gross lists no endorsements on his campaign page. He’s raised about $26,000 for his campaign.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Matthew responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"I also support option C. [Law enforcement should get new financial resources and technical help to take guns away from people who commit a felony or have been accused of domestic violence.]"
Economy
In our issue survey, Matthew responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
"I believe rental assistance and investment in affordable housing is the best way to help with the rising cost of living."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Matthew responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
"This is a moral obligation we are failing. Our state government can change that."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Matthew responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
Policing
In our issue survey, Matthew responded that more law enforcement jobs need to be reassigned to social workers and other service providers.
"Police officers should be responding to ongoing emergencies and conducting follow up investigation for serious crimes. We should be relying on other professionals for proactive community outreach and behavioral health challenges."
Environment
In our issue survey, Matthew responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
Matthew Gross
Matthew Gross, a King County deputy prosecuting attorney, is running as a Democrat in the 46th Legislative District Senate race to replace Sen. David Frockt, who is retiring from the Legislature. “As a prosecutor, I believe strongly in individual accountability but cracking down on low-level crime is not the best way to make us safer,” he wrote in his campaign statement. He wants to increase funding for mental health care and drug treatment. He also wants to slightly increase density in single-family neighborhoods, while upping yearly spending on building and acquiring new units of affordable housing. Gross lists no endorsements on his campaign page. He’s raised about $26,000 for his campaign.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Matthew responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"I also support option C. [Law enforcement should get new financial resources and technical help to take guns away from people who commit a felony or have been accused of domestic violence.]"
Economy
In our issue survey, Matthew responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
"I believe rental assistance and investment in affordable housing is the best way to help with the rising cost of living."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Matthew responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
"This is a moral obligation we are failing. Our state government can change that."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Matthew responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
Policing
In our issue survey, Matthew responded that more law enforcement jobs need to be reassigned to social workers and other service providers.
"Police officers should be responding to ongoing emergencies and conducting follow up investigation for serious crimes. We should be relying on other professionals for proactive community outreach and behavioral health challenges."
Environment
In our issue survey, Matthew responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
Javier Valdez, a state representative since 2017, is one of two Democrats vying for the seat being vacated by Sen. David Frockt, who is retiring after more than a decade in the Legislature. If elected, Valdez says his priorities include banning assault weapons and protecting access to reproductive health care, according to his campaign site. As a state representative, he has helped pass bills to strengthen gun laws and the state’s hate crime statute. He has worked to advise the city of Seattle on equity and inclusion. Endorsements come from the Washington State Labor Council, King County Democrats, Washington Education Association and scores of local union and Democrat groups. Valdez has raised more than $200,000 for this race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Javier responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"We must do more to protect our communities from gun violence, this is an important step in that direction."
Economy
In our issue survey, Javier responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Javier responded that permanent affordable housing – not shelters – is the answer to both homelessness and housing affordability.
Abortion
In our issue survey, Javier responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
Policing
In our issue survey, Javier responded that more law enforcement jobs need to be reassigned to social workers and other service providers.
"Putting police officers in positions that they are not trained or equipped for is not only harmful to the communities that they are serving but makes their jobs harder and puts them at unnecessary risk."
Environment
In our issue survey, Javier responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
Javier Valdez
Javier Valdez, a state representative since 2017, is one of two Democrats vying for the seat being vacated by Sen. David Frockt, who is retiring after more than a decade in the Legislature. If elected, Valdez says his priorities include banning assault weapons and protecting access to reproductive health care, according to his campaign site. As a state representative, he has helped pass bills to strengthen gun laws and the state’s hate crime statute. He has worked to advise the city of Seattle on equity and inclusion. Endorsements come from the Washington State Labor Council, King County Democrats, Washington Education Association and scores of local union and Democrat groups. Valdez has raised more than $200,000 for this race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Javier responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"We must do more to protect our communities from gun violence, this is an important step in that direction."
Economy
In our issue survey, Javier responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Javier responded that permanent affordable housing – not shelters – is the answer to both homelessness and housing affordability.
Abortion
In our issue survey, Javier responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
Policing
In our issue survey, Javier responded that more law enforcement jobs need to be reassigned to social workers and other service providers.
"Putting police officers in positions that they are not trained or equipped for is not only harmful to the communities that they are serving but makes their jobs harder and puts them at unnecessary risk."
Environment
In our issue survey, Javier responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 46 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 46 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Gerry Pollet is running for his sixth election for the state House in the 46th Legislative District. The environmental activist and lawyer has advocated for the Hanford Nuclear Reservation cleanup. Pollet teaches at the University of Washington School of Public Health. He believes quality health care is a fundamental human right and supports Medicare for All. Pollet has collected endorsements from U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, the Washington and Seattle teachers unions, the Washington State Labor Council, and numerous local trade and union groups. During the last legislative session, he helped pass legislation addressing lead in drinking water in schools. The bill, which required schools to test water, became a national model. Pollet has more than $60,000 in the bank for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Gerry responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"I've been a sponsor of the ban on assault weapons, sponsor of the successful ban passed this year on high capacity magazines, and will continue to champion banning assault weapons."
Economy
In our issue survey, Gerry responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
"Guaranteed basic income are proven to greatly reduce intergenerational poverty and improve health. As a teacher of public health at UW, I've reviewed the research with my students, including how this investment would actually SAVE the State money on human services and housing. There are many interim steps we can take, some of which I have already been sponsor of to help break ground, such as providing funds to prevent people from being evicted."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Gerry responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
"Housing should be recognized as a basic human right! Safe, secure and health housing. I have been a leader in funding rapid rehousing with wrap around services and eliminating local government obstacles to rapid rehousing in order to be able to move people from inhumane and unhealthy encampments into secure housing with services that allow them to hen move into permanent supportive housing. We MUST fund both permanent supportive housing and rapid rehousing - not be forced to choose between them. I've led on pulling together the funding partnerships and community to develop hundreds of new housing units here in the 46th District."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Gerry responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"Abortion must be protected as a right, along with contraception, transgender health care, sexual preference and marriage equality - all of which the US Supreme Court right wing majority are threatening. A State constitutional amendment would be wonderful, and I would sponsor one. However, that requires a 2/3 majority in both legislative chambers which is NOT likely. So, we need to take other steps I am championing such as expanding access to abortion by barring religious hospitals that take State funds from limiting medical practice based on their religious directives. I've led on this issue for years, and now we see why it is so important."
Policing
In our issue survey, Gerry responded that more law enforcement jobs need to be reassigned to social workers and other service providers.
"This is not an either - or choice. We have to train police in de-escalation. We have to train them to work with trained mental and behavioral health crisis responders, who should be taking the lead in responding to many calls. I've led on numerous police reforms to reduce violence and racial disparities in police use of force. We need body cameras on all police officers (which costs money). We must not roll back new reforms I championed to remove the commission of police officers who abuse their position through the use of force or discriminatory patterns of policing regardless of whether their local commanders fail to discipline them."
Environment
In our issue survey, Gerry responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
"I led in our adoption of eliminating fossil fuels from electricity production in Washington, and was prime sponsor of the legislation to require consideration of life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions from all fossil fuel projects. Of course we need to make major investments in renewable energy and electric vehicle chargers. We can't meet our new goal of eliminating gas vehicle sales by 2030 without that investment. We also need to scale up community and individual solar energy to meet the new demand. This requires additional financial supports to individual homeowners based on income, just as we do for weatherization."
Gerry Pollet
Gerry Pollet is running for his sixth election for the state House in the 46th Legislative District. The environmental activist and lawyer has advocated for the Hanford Nuclear Reservation cleanup. Pollet teaches at the University of Washington School of Public Health. He believes quality health care is a fundamental human right and supports Medicare for All. Pollet has collected endorsements from U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, the Washington and Seattle teachers unions, the Washington State Labor Council, and numerous local trade and union groups. During the last legislative session, he helped pass legislation addressing lead in drinking water in schools. The bill, which required schools to test water, became a national model. Pollet has more than $60,000 in the bank for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Gerry responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"I've been a sponsor of the ban on assault weapons, sponsor of the successful ban passed this year on high capacity magazines, and will continue to champion banning assault weapons."
Economy
In our issue survey, Gerry responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
"Guaranteed basic income are proven to greatly reduce intergenerational poverty and improve health. As a teacher of public health at UW, I've reviewed the research with my students, including how this investment would actually SAVE the State money on human services and housing. There are many interim steps we can take, some of which I have already been sponsor of to help break ground, such as providing funds to prevent people from being evicted."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Gerry responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
"Housing should be recognized as a basic human right! Safe, secure and health housing. I have been a leader in funding rapid rehousing with wrap around services and eliminating local government obstacles to rapid rehousing in order to be able to move people from inhumane and unhealthy encampments into secure housing with services that allow them to hen move into permanent supportive housing. We MUST fund both permanent supportive housing and rapid rehousing - not be forced to choose between them. I've led on pulling together the funding partnerships and community to develop hundreds of new housing units here in the 46th District."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Gerry responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"Abortion must be protected as a right, along with contraception, transgender health care, sexual preference and marriage equality - all of which the US Supreme Court right wing majority are threatening. A State constitutional amendment would be wonderful, and I would sponsor one. However, that requires a 2/3 majority in both legislative chambers which is NOT likely. So, we need to take other steps I am championing such as expanding access to abortion by barring religious hospitals that take State funds from limiting medical practice based on their religious directives. I've led on this issue for years, and now we see why it is so important."
Policing
In our issue survey, Gerry responded that more law enforcement jobs need to be reassigned to social workers and other service providers.
"This is not an either - or choice. We have to train police in de-escalation. We have to train them to work with trained mental and behavioral health crisis responders, who should be taking the lead in responding to many calls. I've led on numerous police reforms to reduce violence and racial disparities in police use of force. We need body cameras on all police officers (which costs money). We must not roll back new reforms I championed to remove the commission of police officers who abuse their position through the use of force or discriminatory patterns of policing regardless of whether their local commanders fail to discipline them."
Environment
In our issue survey, Gerry responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
"I led in our adoption of eliminating fossil fuels from electricity production in Washington, and was prime sponsor of the legislation to require consideration of life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions from all fossil fuel projects. Of course we need to make major investments in renewable energy and electric vehicle chargers. We can't meet our new goal of eliminating gas vehicle sales by 2030 without that investment. We also need to scale up community and individual solar energy to meet the new demand. This requires additional financial supports to individual homeowners based on income, just as we do for weatherization."
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 46 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 46 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Running for a House seat in the 46th Legislative District is Darya Farivar, the public policy director of Disability Rights Washington. At the advocacy organization, she focused on the Trueblood case, in which a federal judge found the state violated people’s rights by taking too long to determine competency to stand trial, leaving them languishing in county jails. She says her oversight of behavioral health programs gives her the experience to craft policies. She has gathered endorsements from King County Young Democrats, University of Washington Young Democrats and the Transit Riders Union, as well as many local elected officials and community leaders. She has about $153,000 for the election.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Darya responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"SB 5217 was recently introduced which would ban assault rifles for civilians but allow military and law enforcement to maintain them. When making decisions like this it's important to remember the racist history of policing and use of guns. I agree with banning assault weapons, we need this to be for everyone, including law enforcement. Additionally, this legislation creates new crimes. I’m concerned that creating an additional crime will lead to increased criminalization of BIPOC people. We need to be thoughtful about these changes."
Economy
In our issue survey, Darya responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
"There is currently a pilot happening in south King County and I'm eagerly awaiting the results. Guaranteed basic income is not too far off of programs that currently exist, for example, social security. For some, the systemic barriers are too great to pull out of on their own. When all our community members are healthy and have their basic needs addressed, our communities thrive."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Darya responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
"I'm proud to have supported Representative Chopp's Apple Health and Homes legislation. This would guarantee that individuals connected to behavioral health providers receive housing to support their recovery. Housing is healthcare and everyone should have a safe place to call home."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Darya responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"We also need to take action now to make sure there will always be places to get an abortion. Hospital mergers between secular and non-secular institutions put reproductive care at risk. We need to establish state oversight so that mergers do not mean a loss of services. Additionally, we do need to help those who will inevitably come to Washington to get reproductive care. This means we need to open more clinics on our eastern boarder, train more abortion providers, and figure out what can legally be done to protect those seeking care from other states and those providing care."
Policing
In our issue survey, Darya responded that we should cut spending on police by at least half.
"I want to be clear: I don't fully agree with the phrasing of Option E. I do not support cutting funding for public safety. Rather, I believe the police handle too many cases that could be better, and more safely, handled by social workers, mental health professionals, and other trained experts. Increased training is not working for police and not working for vulnerable communities. Increasing public safety starts with providing care the moment it's needed, supporting crisis behavioral health professionals, affordable and accessible low-barrier housing, and reducing the scope of work of law enforcement. We are experiencing serious workforce shortages across the board and especially when it comes to behavioral health care professionals. As a result, we’ve tried to plug holes by having law enforcement respond to crisis. This isn’t working for anyone. Police are trained to respond to crimes and detain individuals, not to provide a trauma-informed approach to a person in crisis. To be clear- there are still times when law enforcement must be involved in a behavioral health crisis and they should show up to support in these moments. To support law enforcement and increase public safety we need to reduce their scope of work and bolster our behavioral health crisis system which starts with supporting the workforce."
Environment
In our issue survey, Darya responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
"I disagree with the use of “severe.” These restrictions have been a long time coming and are perfectly reasonable considering the climate catastrophe we are experiencing and the recent Supreme Court ruling makes this more urgent. The Climate Commitment Act didn’t go far enough to combat climate catastrophe, there are still loopholes for the largest polluters. Cap and trade measures are not cutting our carbon footprint, they are just allowing big companies to pay off their carbon fees. We need to take serious action now."
Darya Farivar
Running for a House seat in the 46th Legislative District is Darya Farivar, the public policy director of Disability Rights Washington. At the advocacy organization, she focused on the Trueblood case, in which a federal judge found the state violated people’s rights by taking too long to determine competency to stand trial, leaving them languishing in county jails. She says her oversight of behavioral health programs gives her the experience to craft policies. She has gathered endorsements from King County Young Democrats, University of Washington Young Democrats and the Transit Riders Union, as well as many local elected officials and community leaders. She has about $153,000 for the election.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Darya responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"SB 5217 was recently introduced which would ban assault rifles for civilians but allow military and law enforcement to maintain them. When making decisions like this it's important to remember the racist history of policing and use of guns. I agree with banning assault weapons, we need this to be for everyone, including law enforcement. Additionally, this legislation creates new crimes. I’m concerned that creating an additional crime will lead to increased criminalization of BIPOC people. We need to be thoughtful about these changes."
Economy
In our issue survey, Darya responded that it’s time to consider a program that provides a guaranteed basic income.
"There is currently a pilot happening in south King County and I'm eagerly awaiting the results. Guaranteed basic income is not too far off of programs that currently exist, for example, social security. For some, the systemic barriers are too great to pull out of on their own. When all our community members are healthy and have their basic needs addressed, our communities thrive."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Darya responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
"I'm proud to have supported Representative Chopp's Apple Health and Homes legislation. This would guarantee that individuals connected to behavioral health providers receive housing to support their recovery. Housing is healthcare and everyone should have a safe place to call home."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Darya responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"We also need to take action now to make sure there will always be places to get an abortion. Hospital mergers between secular and non-secular institutions put reproductive care at risk. We need to establish state oversight so that mergers do not mean a loss of services. Additionally, we do need to help those who will inevitably come to Washington to get reproductive care. This means we need to open more clinics on our eastern boarder, train more abortion providers, and figure out what can legally be done to protect those seeking care from other states and those providing care."
Policing
In our issue survey, Darya responded that we should cut spending on police by at least half.
"I want to be clear: I don't fully agree with the phrasing of Option E. I do not support cutting funding for public safety. Rather, I believe the police handle too many cases that could be better, and more safely, handled by social workers, mental health professionals, and other trained experts. Increased training is not working for police and not working for vulnerable communities. Increasing public safety starts with providing care the moment it's needed, supporting crisis behavioral health professionals, affordable and accessible low-barrier housing, and reducing the scope of work of law enforcement. We are experiencing serious workforce shortages across the board and especially when it comes to behavioral health care professionals. As a result, we’ve tried to plug holes by having law enforcement respond to crisis. This isn’t working for anyone. Police are trained to respond to crimes and detain individuals, not to provide a trauma-informed approach to a person in crisis. To be clear- there are still times when law enforcement must be involved in a behavioral health crisis and they should show up to support in these moments. To support law enforcement and increase public safety we need to reduce their scope of work and bolster our behavioral health crisis system which starts with supporting the workforce."
Environment
In our issue survey, Darya responded that Washington needs to set an example for the rest of the nation by severely cutting its carbon output with new incentives, severe restrictions and guidance for industry.
"I disagree with the use of “severe.” These restrictions have been a long time coming and are perfectly reasonable considering the climate catastrophe we are experiencing and the recent Supreme Court ruling makes this more urgent. The Climate Commitment Act didn’t go far enough to combat climate catastrophe, there are still loopholes for the largest polluters. Cap and trade measures are not cutting our carbon footprint, they are just allowing big companies to pay off their carbon fees. We need to take serious action now."
Javier Valdez’s open seat has attracted all Democrats to the race, including Lelach Rave, a pediatrician, mom and pragmatic progressive says she will balance policies “that protect what we love about our neighborhoods, while at the same time making sure we don’t exclude people…,” according to her campaign site. During her time as a committee chair with the Washington chapter of the American Association of Pediatrics she urged the adoption of a range of policies, including banning toxic flame retardants and raising the legal age to purchase tobacco from 18 to 21. Endorsements include a list of local doctors and few local elected officials. Rave has raised more than $296,000 for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Lelach responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"There is no place for military style weapons in a civillian setting. I also believe that mandatory training for use of weapons is reasonable, as is a system of licensure."
Economy
In our issue survey, Lelach responded that we need to consider giving Washington taxpayers a recovery check or a monthly check for families.
"There was great success in reducing child poverty with the federal checks given to all families with children as part of the COVID relief package. Washington should consider a similar state level program to assist families in need. Given the current restraints on generating revenue in our state, I feel such a program would be more sustainable than a guaranteed basic income and would invest dollars in children, who are among the most vulnerable in our community."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Lelach responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
"Shelter is among the most basic of human needs and should be provided by the government for individuals who cannot provide it for themselves."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Lelach responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"However, given that a 2/3 majority of the legislature is required for a constitutional amendment, this is not a realistic outcome in the near future. In lieu of an amendment, the state needs to guarantee that abortion is affordable and accessible to all Washingtonians who need it as well as individuals from other states who travel to Washington for this essential medical service. We also need to provide legal safeguards for abortion providers and friends/families who aid an individual seeking an abortion."
Policing
In our issue survey, Lelach responded: Let’s hire more police and put more money back into law enforcement budgets.
"I believe we need to invest more money into law enforcement - some into hiring more officers, some into training those officers in areas of de-escalation, crisis intervention, use of force, history of racism, mental health first aid, and trauma informed care, hiring more social workers, mental health providers and other service providers. There also needs to be accountability for officer actions and inactions."
Environment
In our issue survey, Lelach responded that Washington needs to invest serious money in developing alternative energy sources and to encourage people to buy electric vehicles, invest in solar energy for their homes and switch from gas to electric to heat their homes.
"Such investments and incentives will allow WA to set an example for the rest of the country by severely cutting its carbon footprint. The incentives and guidance must also extend to businesses and industry to have the true impact needed. Specifically regarding the climate impact of our build environment, there must be regulations about new construction as well as incentives to retrofit existing structures to remove fossil fuels from homes."
Lelach Rave
Javier Valdez’s open seat has attracted all Democrats to the race, including Lelach Rave, a pediatrician, mom and pragmatic progressive says she will balance policies “that protect what we love about our neighborhoods, while at the same time making sure we don’t exclude people…,” according to her campaign site. During her time as a committee chair with the Washington chapter of the American Association of Pediatrics she urged the adoption of a range of policies, including banning toxic flame retardants and raising the legal age to purchase tobacco from 18 to 21. Endorsements include a list of local doctors and few local elected officials. Rave has raised more than $296,000 for the race.
Firearms
In our issue survey, Lelach responded that the Washington Legislature should pass a ban on all military style semi-automatic weapons.
"There is no place for military style weapons in a civillian setting. I also believe that mandatory training for use of weapons is reasonable, as is a system of licensure."
Economy
In our issue survey, Lelach responded that we need to consider giving Washington taxpayers a recovery check or a monthly check for families.
"There was great success in reducing child poverty with the federal checks given to all families with children as part of the COVID relief package. Washington should consider a similar state level program to assist families in need. Given the current restraints on generating revenue in our state, I feel such a program would be more sustainable than a guaranteed basic income and would invest dollars in children, who are among the most vulnerable in our community."
Housing & Homelessness
In our issue survey, Lelach responded that housing should be a right for all Washingtonians. Similar to guaranteed basic income, there should be a guarantee of housing for all.
"Shelter is among the most basic of human needs and should be provided by the government for individuals who cannot provide it for themselves."
Abortion
In our issue survey, Lelach responded that Washington should pass a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to abortion, while spending more money to make abortion services available.
"However, given that a 2/3 majority of the legislature is required for a constitutional amendment, this is not a realistic outcome in the near future. In lieu of an amendment, the state needs to guarantee that abortion is affordable and accessible to all Washingtonians who need it as well as individuals from other states who travel to Washington for this essential medical service. We also need to provide legal safeguards for abortion providers and friends/families who aid an individual seeking an abortion."
Policing
In our issue survey, Lelach responded: Let’s hire more police and put more money back into law enforcement budgets.
"I believe we need to invest more money into law enforcement - some into hiring more officers, some into training those officers in areas of de-escalation, crisis intervention, use of force, history of racism, mental health first aid, and trauma informed care, hiring more social workers, mental health providers and other service providers. There also needs to be accountability for officer actions and inactions."
Environment
In our issue survey, Lelach responded that Washington needs to invest serious money in developing alternative energy sources and to encourage people to buy electric vehicles, invest in solar energy for their homes and switch from gas to electric to heat their homes.
"Such investments and incentives will allow WA to set an example for the rest of the country by severely cutting its carbon footprint. The incentives and guidance must also extend to businesses and industry to have the true impact needed. Specifically regarding the climate impact of our build environment, there must be regulations about new construction as well as incentives to retrofit existing structures to remove fossil fuels from homes."
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 47 includes part of King County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
Washington has 49 legislative districts, each of which elects one Senator. District 47 includes part of King County. Not sure which district you live in? Find out here.
The president of the Kent City Council, Bill Boyce, is also a human resources leader at Boeing.
He served for 16 years on Kent School Board before joining the city council. Boyce, a Republican, is concerned about people being priced out of their homes, a rising crime rate, and people not feeling safe in their communities. He says the police need to be supported and given the tools they need to do their jobs, but also held to high standards. Boyce also wants to lower taxes and repeal Washington’s long-term care insurance program. According to the state Public Disclosure Commission, Boyce has raised about $400,000 for this race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Bill Boyce
The president of the Kent City Council, Bill Boyce, is also a human resources leader at Boeing.
He served for 16 years on Kent School Board before joining the city council. Boyce, a Republican, is concerned about people being priced out of their homes, a rising crime rate, and people not feeling safe in their communities. He says the police need to be supported and given the tools they need to do their jobs, but also held to high standards. Boyce also wants to lower taxes and repeal Washington’s long-term care insurance program. According to the state Public Disclosure Commission, Boyce has raised about $400,000 for this race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Democrat Claudia Kauffman previously served as state Senator for the 47th Legislative District from 2007 to 2011. She is the intergovernmental affairs liaison for the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, as well as co-founder of the Native Action Network. Kauffman was previously chair of the Green River College Board of Trustees. She is concerned about issues including affordable housing, rising crime rates, homelessness and children struggling with mental and behavioral health issues after living through the pandemic. She wants to see lower property taxes for seniors and those on fixed incomes and more money for public schools. Kauffman is endorsed by U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer and other public figures. According to the state Public Disclosure Commission, Kauffman has raised about $278,000 for this race.
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We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Claudia Kauffman
Democrat Claudia Kauffman previously served as state Senator for the 47th Legislative District from 2007 to 2011. She is the intergovernmental affairs liaison for the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, as well as co-founder of the Native Action Network. Kauffman was previously chair of the Green River College Board of Trustees. She is concerned about issues including affordable housing, rising crime rates, homelessness and children struggling with mental and behavioral health issues after living through the pandemic. She wants to see lower property taxes for seniors and those on fixed incomes and more money for public schools. Kauffman is endorsed by U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer and other public figures. According to the state Public Disclosure Commission, Kauffman has raised about $278,000 for this race.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 47 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 47 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Debra Jean Entenman has been a state representative for the 47th Legislative District since 2018. She is vice chair of the College & Workforce Development Committee, and a member of the Transportation Committee and the Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee. She grew up in south Seattle and has worked in U.S. Rep. Adam Smith’s office for 12 years. The Democrat is a member of the Renton Technical College Board of Trustees. During her time in the Legislature, Entenman has focused on bills that strengthen social safety nets, address public safety, protect elders, support workers and invest in training for frontline responders. Entenman says her future work will focus on economic recovery for both businesses and people. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, she had $69,000 in the bank for this election.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Debra Jean Entenman
Debra Jean Entenman has been a state representative for the 47th Legislative District since 2018. She is vice chair of the College & Workforce Development Committee, and a member of the Transportation Committee and the Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee. She grew up in south Seattle and has worked in U.S. Rep. Adam Smith’s office for 12 years. The Democrat is a member of the Renton Technical College Board of Trustees. During her time in the Legislature, Entenman has focused on bills that strengthen social safety nets, address public safety, protect elders, support workers and invest in training for frontline responders. Entenman says her future work will focus on economic recovery for both businesses and people. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, she had $69,000 in the bank for this election.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The Republican challenger to be a state representative for the 47th Legislative District, Kyle Lyebyedyev, is a small business owner who is helping build homes around Puget Sound. He has no elected experience but volunteers to host Ukrainian refugees and at the Northwest Ukrainian Festival. Lyebyedyev immigrated from Ukraine in 2002, while it was still under Communist control, to seek freedom and happiness. He believes state politicians in Olympia have failed and he wants to work toward improving education, decreasing taxes, improving public safety and helping small business owners create more family-wage jobs. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, he had about $80,000 in the bank for this election.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Kyle Lyebyedyev
The Republican challenger to be a state representative for the 47th Legislative District, Kyle Lyebyedyev, is a small business owner who is helping build homes around Puget Sound. He has no elected experience but volunteers to host Ukrainian refugees and at the Northwest Ukrainian Festival. Lyebyedyev immigrated from Ukraine in 2002, while it was still under Communist control, to seek freedom and happiness. He believes state politicians in Olympia have failed and he wants to work toward improving education, decreasing taxes, improving public safety and helping small business owners create more family-wage jobs. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, he had about $80,000 in the bank for this election.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 47 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
The WA State House is made up of 98 representatives, two from each legislative district. There are separate races for each of the two seats. District 47 includes part of King County. Not sure what district you live in? Find out here.
Auburn City Councilmember Chris Stearns is one of two Democrats running for Position 2 in the House for the 47th Legislative District. In his law career, he has worked with tribes and rural and marginalized communities around civil rights, energy and other issues. Stearns was appointed by President Bill Clinton as director of Indian Affairs for the U.S. Department of Energy and is the first Native American councilmember on the Auburn City Council. In public service, on the council and elsewhere, Stearns has focused on housing affordability, public safety and protecting the natural environment. He is endorsed by conservation groups, as well as local and regional Democratic leaders. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, he has raised about $106,000 for his campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Chris Stearns
Auburn City Councilmember Chris Stearns is one of two Democrats running for Position 2 in the House for the 47th Legislative District. In his law career, he has worked with tribes and rural and marginalized communities around civil rights, energy and other issues. Stearns was appointed by President Bill Clinton as director of Indian Affairs for the U.S. Department of Energy and is the first Native American councilmember on the Auburn City Council. In public service, on the council and elsewhere, Stearns has focused on housing affordability, public safety and protecting the natural environment. He is endorsed by conservation groups, as well as local and regional Democratic leaders. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, he has raised about $106,000 for his campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
A government employee without elected experience, Shukri Olow is running as one of two Democrats for Position 2 in the House for the 47th Legislative District. She is the division director for Youth and Family Empowerment for the City of Seattle and was formerly youth development lead for King County’s Best Starts for Kids program. Olow has been a board member of the Kent YMCA, the Kent Rotary Club, Kent Youth and Family Services, the Kent Schools Foundation and One America. She advocates for lower costs, safe neighborhoods, great public schools and affordable housing, and wants politicians to step away from partisanship, bickering and talking over each other. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, she has raised about $103,000 for her campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Shukri Olow
A government employee without elected experience, Shukri Olow is running as one of two Democrats for Position 2 in the House for the 47th Legislative District. She is the division director for Youth and Family Empowerment for the City of Seattle and was formerly youth development lead for King County’s Best Starts for Kids program. Olow has been a board member of the Kent YMCA, the Kent Rotary Club, Kent Youth and Family Services, the Kent Schools Foundation and One America. She advocates for lower costs, safe neighborhoods, great public schools and affordable housing, and wants politicians to step away from partisanship, bickering and talking over each other. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, she has raised about $103,000 for her campaign.
We didn't hear back from this candidate.
We're a small newsroom, but you can help us grow and cover more ground by becoming a supporter. Find more information about this candidate on the Washington elections website.
Get the latest in election news
In the weeks leading up to each election (and occasionally during the legislative session), Crosscut's Election newsletter will provide you with everything you need to know about races, candidates and policy in WA state.
Methodology
In our ongoing quest to get voters the information they need to mark their ballots, we asked candidates for Congress and the Washington Legislature to answer a short multiple-choice survey on today’s issues. For each topic – from abortion to the economy – we gave them five choices and asked them to mark which choice came closest to their beliefs.
Sounds simple, but it’s obviously not. We did our best to provide choices that cover most of the political spectrum, but we would have needed a lot more choices to include every unique perspective. Some candidates chose not to participate; others made a choice and then added context with a short description.
Let us know how you think this idea could be improved by emailing our news editor, Donna Blankinship, or by filling out the form on our full methodology page. We provide this voter guide for our readers and we want to hear from you.