The M. L. King County Labor Council, AFL-CIO, is the central body of labor organizations in King County, Washington. The core responsibilities of the M. L. King County Labor Council are to assist workers and their unions in the struggle for social and economic justice; support efforts to organize and bargain fair contracts; lobby, endorse and involve working people in the political process; advocate and support laws that protect working people; support community services outreach work; and unite with community allies who are also struggling for justice.
County Council District Races
King County, District 1
Incumbent Rod Dembowsk is seeking another term representing District 1 on the King County Council, where he has served since 2013. Dembowski is an attorney who spent over a decade at a local litigation firm before his council work. His public service outside the council has included providing pro bono counsel to King County Superior Court judges, serving as a policy analyst in the county executive’s office, and joining the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce Transportation Committee.
Dembowski has been a solid supporter of progressive reforms on the council. His top priorities have included protecting clear air and water, enhancing local government efficiency, improving regional transportation, and creating equitable opportunities so that all county residents can achieve prosperous futures. On the council, he protected King County Metro from attempted cuts, established the King County Youth Action Plan, and worked to secure paid parental leave for King County employees. In this race, he is once again running on an optimistic platform that emphasizes investing in human services, public transportation, climate solutions, and community safety.
Rod Dembowski is running unopposed in this race and will continue to make progressive change on the King County Council.
Incumbent Rod Dembowsk is seeking another term representing District 1 on the King County Council, where he has served since 2013. Dembowski is an attorney who spent over a decade at a local litigation firm before his council work. His public service outside the council has included providing pro bono counsel to King County Superior Court judges, serving as a policy analyst in the county executive’s office, and joining the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce Transportation Committee.
Dembowski has been a solid supporter of progressive reforms on the council. His top priorities have included protecting clear air and water, enhancing local government efficiency, improving regional transportation, and creating equitable opportunities so that all county residents can achieve prosperous futures. On the council, he protected King County Metro from attempted cuts, established the King County Youth Action Plan, and worked to secure paid parental leave for King County employees. In this race, he is once again running on an optimistic platform that emphasizes investing in human services, public transportation, climate solutions, and community safety.
Rod Dembowski is running unopposed in this race and will continue to make progressive change on the King County Council.
King County, District 3
Incumbent Sarah Perry is running for another term representing District 3 on the King County Council. Perry was first elected in 2021 when she challenged an incumbent on a hopeful platform. Her professional background is in financial consulting for community entities, including nonprofits and universities, in the Puget Sound region.
Perry is a collaborative, community-minded, and practical leader who has worked to improve the quality of life in King County. During her term, she has advocated for farmers and rural workforce development, approved numerous strategies to increase affordable housing and alleviate the homelessness crisis, and supported local public services, including food access, mental health treatments, and senior services. Recently, she helped pass a policy to provide relief to help bomb cyclone victims get back on their feet. Now, Perry is running on a platform to continue building environmental sustainability, economic prosperity, and robust public services in King County.
We recommend re-electing Sarah Perry to serve another term representing District 3 on the King County Council.
Incumbent Sarah Perry is running for another term representing District 3 on the King County Council. Perry was first elected in 2021 when she challenged an incumbent on a hopeful platform. Her professional background is in financial consulting for community entities, including nonprofits and universities, in the Puget Sound region.
Perry is a collaborative, community-minded, and practical leader who has worked to improve the quality of life in King County. During her term, she has advocated for farmers and rural workforce development, approved numerous strategies to increase affordable housing and alleviate the homelessness crisis, and supported local public services, including food access, mental health treatments, and senior services. Recently, she helped pass a policy to provide relief to help bomb cyclone victims get back on their feet. Now, Perry is running on a platform to continue building environmental sustainability, economic prosperity, and robust public services in King County.
We recommend re-electing Sarah Perry to serve another term representing District 3 on the King County Council.
Port of Seattle
Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below races on your ballot.
Incumbent Commissioner Ryan Calkins is running for re-election for Port of Seattle, Commissioner Position 1, where he has served since 2017. He works for the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory as an advisor on offshore wind and maritime infrastructure. Previously, Calkins also ran a successful import and distribution company and started a local nonprofit focused on supporting small business entrepreneurship. His background in business, maritime infrastructure, and public service makes him a highly qualified voice on the commission.
The Port of Seattle oversees public assets in travel, trade, and commerce for the region. Over the last eight years, Calkins has helped push the commission in a more progressive direction. He advocates for equity, sustainability, and prosperity to port leadership, and he has supported measures to protect our port’s local ecosystem, fight for workers’ rights, and improve local immigration policy. Calkins is campaigning on a platform that emphasizes environmental justice, sustainable economic development, and creating living-wage jobs
Ryan Calkins deserves your vote for another term in Position 1 on the Seattle Port Commission.
Incumbent Commissioner Ryan Calkins is running for re-election for Port of Seattle, Commissioner Position 1, where he has served since 2017. He works for the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory as an advisor on offshore wind and maritime infrastructure. Previously, Calkins also ran a successful import and distribution company and started a local nonprofit focused on supporting small business entrepreneurship. His background in business, maritime infrastructure, and public service makes him a highly qualified voice on the commission.
The Port of Seattle oversees public assets in travel, trade, and commerce for the region. Over the last eight years, Calkins has helped push the commission in a more progressive direction. He advocates for equity, sustainability, and prosperity to port leadership, and he has supported measures to protect our port’s local ecosystem, fight for workers’ rights, and improve local immigration policy. Calkins is campaigning on a platform that emphasizes environmental justice, sustainable economic development, and creating living-wage jobs
Ryan Calkins deserves your vote for another term in Position 1 on the Seattle Port Commission.
Incumbent Hamdi Mohamed is running unopposed for re-election for Commissioner Position 3 on the Port of Seattle. Mohamed was first elected to the position in 2021 on a visionary progressive platform, making her the first Black woman to serve on the commission. Mohamed’s mother worked for the airport when her family first settled in SeaTac as Somali refugees – an upbringing that has deepened her knowledge of the port’s community importance. She is the department director for Seattle’s Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs and previously worked as a policy advisor for the King County Office of Equity and Social Justice. She is currently the only commissioner who resides in South King County.
Mohamed is a leader in people-focused policy, taking seriously the real impact of port commission decisions on the local community, ecosystem, and economy. On the commission, she has prioritized economic development to create good-paying local jobs, support workers’ rights, and help small businesses flourish. She has also been a strong voice for addressing airport noise disruptions, reducing port pollution that impacts the South King County communities, and promoting renewable energy solutions.
We recommend Hamdi Mohamed for another term as Port of Seattle Commissioner, Position 3, to continue bringing strong, progressive leadership to the to the region.
Incumbent Hamdi Mohamed is running unopposed for re-election for Commissioner Position 3 on the Port of Seattle. Mohamed was first elected to the position in 2021 on a visionary progressive platform, making her the first Black woman to serve on the commission. Mohamed’s mother worked for the airport when her family first settled in SeaTac as Somali refugees – an upbringing that has deepened her knowledge of the port’s community importance. She is the department director for Seattle’s Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs and previously worked as a policy advisor for the King County Office of Equity and Social Justice. She is currently the only commissioner who resides in South King County.
Mohamed is a leader in people-focused policy, taking seriously the real impact of port commission decisions on the local community, ecosystem, and economy. On the commission, she has prioritized economic development to create good-paying local jobs, support workers’ rights, and help small businesses flourish. She has also been a strong voice for addressing airport noise disruptions, reducing port pollution that impacts the South King County communities, and promoting renewable energy solutions.
We recommend Hamdi Mohamed for another term as Port of Seattle Commissioner, Position 3, to continue bringing strong, progressive leadership to the to the region.
Commission president Toshiko Grace Hasegawa is running for re-election to Commissioner Position 4 on the Port of Seattle. Hasegawa was first elected to the position in 2021, becoming one of the first women of color to serve on the commission, alongside her colleague Hamdi Mohamed. Hasegawa is the former executive director of the Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs (CAPAA), an advocacy organization that advises government agencies on issues affecting Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. She currently serves on the boards of Densho and the Seattle chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League, both organizations that uplift the city’s Japanese American community.
On the commission, Hasegawa has been a voice for community empowerment, equitable prosperity, and regional sustainability. She was a critical advocate protecting North SeaTac Park, led efforts to increase childcare and health care for airport employees, helped set ambitious goals to decarbonize the cruise industry, expanded the South King County Community Impact Fund, and more. If re–elected, Hasegawa will continue her tireless work to fight for clean water and air, strong workers' protections, and economic development that benefits local communities first in her progressive vision for the commission.
We recommend Hasegawa for a second term on the Seattle Port Commission.
Commission president Toshiko Grace Hasegawa is running for re-election to Commissioner Position 4 on the Port of Seattle. Hasegawa was first elected to the position in 2021, becoming one of the first women of color to serve on the commission, alongside her colleague Hamdi Mohamed. Hasegawa is the former executive director of the Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs (CAPAA), an advocacy organization that advises government agencies on issues affecting Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. She currently serves on the boards of Densho and the Seattle chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League, both organizations that uplift the city’s Japanese American community.
On the commission, Hasegawa has been a voice for community empowerment, equitable prosperity, and regional sustainability. She was a critical advocate protecting North SeaTac Park, led efforts to increase childcare and health care for airport employees, helped set ambitious goals to decarbonize the cruise industry, expanded the South King County Community Impact Fund, and more. If re–elected, Hasegawa will continue her tireless work to fight for clean water and air, strong workers' protections, and economic development that benefits local communities first in her progressive vision for the commission.
We recommend Hasegawa for a second term on the Seattle Port Commission.
City Races
Bellevue City Council
Nonprofit founder Naren Briar is running for Bellevue City Council, Position 2. Briar has worked as a product manager in the AI ethics space at Meta and has run the Genocide Education and Human Rights Initiative for almost a decade. As a member of the Kurdish American community and a participant in Bellevue Essentials, the city's civic engagement program, Briar is a strong communicator and leader dedicated to creating safe and healthy communities.
Briar is running on an optimistic and progressive platform. If elected, she hopes to address the housing crisis by increasing mixed-use development, expanding affordable options, and implementing tenant protections. Briar also aims to invest in community progress through enhanced public transit, living-wage jobs, cultural event programming, cross-agency government collaboration, and other initiatives. Her thoughtful, forward-looking platform has helped her earn an impressive slate of endorsements from community leaders that continues to grow.
Naren Briar is the right choice to bring new ideas and fresh leadership to the Bellevue City Council. We enthusiastically recommend her for Position 2.
Nonprofit founder Naren Briar is running for Bellevue City Council, Position 2. Briar has worked as a product manager in the AI ethics space at Meta and has run the Genocide Education and Human Rights Initiative for almost a decade. As a member of the Kurdish American community and a participant in Bellevue Essentials, the city's civic engagement program, Briar is a strong communicator and leader dedicated to creating safe and healthy communities.
Briar is running on an optimistic and progressive platform. If elected, she hopes to address the housing crisis by increasing mixed-use development, expanding affordable options, and implementing tenant protections. Briar also aims to invest in community progress through enhanced public transit, living-wage jobs, cultural event programming, cross-agency government collaboration, and other initiatives. Her thoughtful, forward-looking platform has helped her earn an impressive slate of endorsements from community leaders that continues to grow.
Naren Briar is the right choice to bring new ideas and fresh leadership to the Bellevue City Council. We enthusiastically recommend her for Position 2.
Claire Sumadiwirya is running to be retained in Position 5 on the Bellevue City Council, to which she was appointed in April of this year. Sumadiwirya works at the intersection of private innovation and social impact and started her own social enterprise company, Bellden Ventures. Her approach to small business ownership involves nurturing the community, and she has shared the profits of her downtown business, Bellden Café, with several nonprofits. Sumadiwirya has also served on the King County Open Space Equity Cabinet and with the Bellevue School Foundation.
As a first-generation immigrant, Sumadiwirya has approached her leadership roles with a commitment to strengthening the social fabric of our local community while increasing opportunities, prosperity, and belonging for all. Her campaign is prioritizing collaboration, inclusion, affordability, and safety. As an effort to improve tenant protections, she aims to make renter resources available in multiple languages, which would support marginalized communities most affected by housing instability. She is an advocate for alternative policing methods that seek to reduce harm in vulnerable communities, such as expanding the crisis response team and reducing inappropriate arrests.
Claire Sumadiwirya is a thoughtful and dedicated leader who is focused on supporting all communities in Bellevue. She has earned your vote to serve a full term on the Bellevue City Council in Position 5.
Claire Sumadiwirya is running to be retained in Position 5 on the Bellevue City Council, to which she was appointed in April of this year. Sumadiwirya works at the intersection of private innovation and social impact and started her own social enterprise company, Bellden Ventures. Her approach to small business ownership involves nurturing the community, and she has shared the profits of her downtown business, Bellden Café, with several nonprofits. Sumadiwirya has also served on the King County Open Space Equity Cabinet and with the Bellevue School Foundation.
As a first-generation immigrant, Sumadiwirya has approached her leadership roles with a commitment to strengthening the social fabric of our local community while increasing opportunities, prosperity, and belonging for all. Her campaign is prioritizing collaboration, inclusion, affordability, and safety. As an effort to improve tenant protections, she aims to make renter resources available in multiple languages, which would support marginalized communities most affected by housing instability. She is an advocate for alternative policing methods that seek to reduce harm in vulnerable communities, such as expanding the crisis response team and reducing inappropriate arrests.
Claire Sumadiwirya is a thoughtful and dedicated leader who is focused on supporting all communities in Bellevue. She has earned your vote to serve a full term on the Bellevue City Council in Position 5.
Bothell City Council
Incumbent Jenne Alderks is running for re-election to Bothell City Council, Position 3. Alderks, who uses she/they pronouns, is a former planning commission member whose previous career focus was in birthing as a postpartum doula, including for Seattle Holistic Doula and the Family Resource & Referral Center. They are a strong community leader who currently serves on the boards of Lake City Partners Ending Homelessness and Eastside Human Services Forum and works with organizations like Anti-Racist Communities of Bothell.
On the city council, Alderks has prioritized quality education, housing affordability, environmental sustainability, social equity efforts, and small business support. In their last election, they supported expanding the RADAR (Response Awareness, De-escalation, and Referral) program to strengthen community safety for all residents. Although Alderks' platform does not include current campaign priorities, they have garnered impressive support from several progressive organizations, including our partners at Washington Housing Alliance Action Fund and Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates.
We recommend Jenne Alderks for another term in Position 3 on the Bothell City Council.
Incumbent Jenne Alderks is running for re-election to Bothell City Council, Position 3. Alderks, who uses she/they pronouns, is a former planning commission member whose previous career focus was in birthing as a postpartum doula, including for Seattle Holistic Doula and the Family Resource & Referral Center. They are a strong community leader who currently serves on the boards of Lake City Partners Ending Homelessness and Eastside Human Services Forum and works with organizations like Anti-Racist Communities of Bothell.
On the city council, Alderks has prioritized quality education, housing affordability, environmental sustainability, social equity efforts, and small business support. In their last election, they supported expanding the RADAR (Response Awareness, De-escalation, and Referral) program to strengthen community safety for all residents. Although Alderks' platform does not include current campaign priorities, they have garnered impressive support from several progressive organizations, including our partners at Washington Housing Alliance Action Fund and Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates.
We recommend Jenne Alderks for another term in Position 3 on the Bothell City Council.
Burien City Council
Hugo Garcia is running for re-election for Burien City Council, Position 1. Garcia, whose family immigrated from Mexico more than 30 years ago, learned the value of hard work at an early age by watching his father wait tables to support their family of five. Garcia has proven to be a thoughtful and progressive leader in Burien, particularly during a tumultuous period for the city.
If re-elected, Garcia plans to continue focusing on expanding access to housing and improving affordability. Garcia contributed to efforts to support unhoused people, including voting in favor of a proposal for a tiny home village. He also intends to defend Burien "against Trump Era Impacts" by supporting the city's libraries, museums, and public institutions. Garcia stood firmly against conservative council member Stephanie Mora's attempt to censure him after he criticized an ordinance criminalizing homelessness, which he said upheld and enabled systemic racism.
Due to his continued progressive leadership, we recommend Hugo Garcia for Burien City Council, Position 1.
Hugo Garcia is running for re-election for Burien City Council, Position 1. Garcia, whose family immigrated from Mexico more than 30 years ago, learned the value of hard work at an early age by watching his father wait tables to support their family of five. Garcia has proven to be a thoughtful and progressive leader in Burien, particularly during a tumultuous period for the city.
If re-elected, Garcia plans to continue focusing on expanding access to housing and improving affordability. Garcia contributed to efforts to support unhoused people, including voting in favor of a proposal for a tiny home village. He also intends to defend Burien "against Trump Era Impacts" by supporting the city's libraries, museums, and public institutions. Garcia stood firmly against conservative council member Stephanie Mora's attempt to censure him after he criticized an ordinance criminalizing homelessness, which he said upheld and enabled systemic racism.
Due to his continued progressive leadership, we recommend Hugo Garcia for Burien City Council, Position 1.
Sarah Moore is running for re-election for Burien City Council, Position 5. Moore joined the City Council in 2022 and, in January 2025, began her position as Deputy Mayor. Previously, she co-founded ACLU Burien People Power and spent more than 20 years working at the Pacific Science Center.
Moore was one of only two city council members to vote against the harsh emergency ordinance to criminalize homelessness on public property at all times. On the ordinance, Moore said "the law makes the city one that 'offers a severe weather shelter on a 32 degree day and exile on a 33 degree day.'" In 2023, Moore also voted in favor of a $1 million proposal from King County to build a tiny home village for community members experiencing homelessness. Those in favor of the proposal argued that it was a step towards permanent housing. In addition, Moore stood with councilmember Hugo Garcia in support of raising the local minimum wage, which the voters of Burien approved in February.
Due to her continued progressive work in Burien, we strongly support Sarah Moore for Burien City Council, Position 5.
Sarah Moore is running for re-election for Burien City Council, Position 5. Moore joined the City Council in 2022 and, in January 2025, began her position as Deputy Mayor. Previously, she co-founded ACLU Burien People Power and spent more than 20 years working at the Pacific Science Center.
Moore was one of only two city council members to vote against the harsh emergency ordinance to criminalize homelessness on public property at all times. On the ordinance, Moore said "the law makes the city one that 'offers a severe weather shelter on a 32 degree day and exile on a 33 degree day.'" In 2023, Moore also voted in favor of a $1 million proposal from King County to build a tiny home village for community members experiencing homelessness. Those in favor of the proposal argued that it was a step towards permanent housing. In addition, Moore stood with councilmember Hugo Garcia in support of raising the local minimum wage, which the voters of Burien approved in February.
Due to her continued progressive work in Burien, we strongly support Sarah Moore for Burien City Council, Position 5.
Rocco DeVito is challenging incumbent Stephanie Mora for Burien City Council, Position 7. DeVito grew up on naval bases and in a family dedicated to public service. A union member, DeVito currently works at King County Metro helping to improve the transit system and provide transit passes to those who need them most.
DeVito is an active and enthusiastic member of the Burien community. His campaign prioritizes safe streets, affordable housing, and taking a thoughtful approach to the city's budget. He is an advocate for renter protections and rent stabilization to prevent displacement. He is not supportive of Burien's camping ban and is a proponent of emergency shelters and tiny home villages as transitional housing options. He supports progressive revenue options at the state level to maintain services and protect our quality of life.
Rocco DeVito is the clear progressive choice for Burien City Council, Position 7 race.
Rocco DeVito is challenging incumbent Stephanie Mora for Burien City Council, Position 7. DeVito grew up on naval bases and in a family dedicated to public service. A union member, DeVito currently works at King County Metro helping to improve the transit system and provide transit passes to those who need them most.
DeVito is an active and enthusiastic member of the Burien community. His campaign prioritizes safe streets, affordable housing, and taking a thoughtful approach to the city's budget. He is an advocate for renter protections and rent stabilization to prevent displacement. He is not supportive of Burien's camping ban and is a proponent of emergency shelters and tiny home villages as transitional housing options. He supports progressive revenue options at the state level to maintain services and protect our quality of life.
Rocco DeVito is the clear progressive choice for Burien City Council, Position 7 race.
Issaquah Mayor
Issaquah City Council president Lindsey Walsh is now running for mayor. Walsh is a small business owner who has served on the city council since 2019, when she was first appointed. Her community leadership is extensive, encompassing service on the Eastside Fire & Rescue board, the city’s Planning Policy Commission, the King County Affordable Housing Committee, and the Puget Sound Regional Council’s Growth Management Policy Board. She has run her own search engine marketing company outside of public service work for the past two decades.
Walsh is running on a platform that emphasizes affordable housing, community safety, environmental health, and economic prosperity. If elected mayor, she aims to streamline permitting while promoting workforce and middle-income housing development. Walsh also supports expanding green spaces, bikeways, and walkways, as well as investing in sustainable infrastructure. In addition, she would advocate for bolstering local crisis response with mental health professionals and making strong investments in downtown revitalization and economic growth. She envisions an Issaquah that is prosperous, safe, and welcoming for all, and she has earned strong support in this campaign from fellow city leaders, neighboring mayors, and progressive lawmakers at the state level.
Lindsey Walsh is the clear progressive choice for Mayor of Issaquah.
Issaquah City Council president Lindsey Walsh is now running for mayor. Walsh is a small business owner who has served on the city council since 2019, when she was first appointed. Her community leadership is extensive, encompassing service on the Eastside Fire & Rescue board, the city’s Planning Policy Commission, the King County Affordable Housing Committee, and the Puget Sound Regional Council’s Growth Management Policy Board. She has run her own search engine marketing company outside of public service work for the past two decades.
Walsh is running on a platform that emphasizes affordable housing, community safety, environmental health, and economic prosperity. If elected mayor, she aims to streamline permitting while promoting workforce and middle-income housing development. Walsh also supports expanding green spaces, bikeways, and walkways, as well as investing in sustainable infrastructure. In addition, she would advocate for bolstering local crisis response with mental health professionals and making strong investments in downtown revitalization and economic growth. She envisions an Issaquah that is prosperous, safe, and welcoming for all, and she has earned strong support in this campaign from fellow city leaders, neighboring mayors, and progressive lawmakers at the state level.
Lindsey Walsh is the clear progressive choice for Mayor of Issaquah.
Kenmore City Council
Mayor Nigel Herbig is running for re-election to Position 4 on the Kenmore City Council. He first joined the council in 2014 and was appointed deputy mayor twice before becoming mayor in 2022. Outside of elected office, he formerly served as a senior legislative assistant in the state Legislature and as an intergovernmental relations manager for the King County Regional Homelessness Authority.
Herbig has been a thoughtful and determined progressive voice on the council. He has been an advocate for Kenmore residents struggling the most, working on policies to extend the eviction ban and offer one-time cash support to low-income residents. Herbig has a long track record of advocating for regional and local housing solutions, as well as improving transit access, climate protections, and cultural inclusion. If re-elected, he will continue to fight for reducing the cost of living and improving access to safe neighborhoods and affordable housing.
Nigel Herbig is a progressive leader in our region and has earned your vote to serve another term on the Kenmore City Council, Position 4.
Mayor Nigel Herbig is running for re-election to Position 4 on the Kenmore City Council. He first joined the council in 2014 and was appointed deputy mayor twice before becoming mayor in 2022. Outside of elected office, he formerly served as a senior legislative assistant in the state Legislature and as an intergovernmental relations manager for the King County Regional Homelessness Authority.
Herbig has been a thoughtful and determined progressive voice on the council. He has been an advocate for Kenmore residents struggling the most, working on policies to extend the eviction ban and offer one-time cash support to low-income residents. Herbig has a long track record of advocating for regional and local housing solutions, as well as improving transit access, climate protections, and cultural inclusion. If re-elected, he will continue to fight for reducing the cost of living and improving access to safe neighborhoods and affordable housing.
Nigel Herbig is a progressive leader in our region and has earned your vote to serve another term on the Kenmore City Council, Position 4.
Kirkland City Council
Kurt Dresner is running for Kirkland City Council, Position 7. Dresner is a resident of the Everest neighborhood and Vice-Chair of its neighborhood association. He is an active member of the Kirkland community, cofounding the nonprofit Liveable Kirkland, which advocates for various progressive issues. Through Liveable Kirkland, Dresner helped implement community programs, including a volunteer bike valet program, a new tool-lending library, and a weekly morning coffee gathering. He is also a frequent attendee of Kirkland City Council meetings.
Dresner's campaign platform is focused on improving housing affordability, expanding transportation options, and maintaining Kirkland's excellent parks and recreation spaces. He supports policies that would make it easier and less expensive to build new homes, thereby alleviating Kirkland's severe housing shortage. He hopes to improve transit options by increasing the frequency of public transportation and creating more walker- and biker-friendly spaces.
Kurt Dresner is someone who clearly cares deeply about our community and is well-versed in the issues facing residents. We enthusiastically recommend voting for Kurt Dresner for Kirkland City Council, Position 7.
Kurt Dresner is running for Kirkland City Council, Position 7. Dresner is a resident of the Everest neighborhood and Vice-Chair of its neighborhood association. He is an active member of the Kirkland community, cofounding the nonprofit Liveable Kirkland, which advocates for various progressive issues. Through Liveable Kirkland, Dresner helped implement community programs, including a volunteer bike valet program, a new tool-lending library, and a weekly morning coffee gathering. He is also a frequent attendee of Kirkland City Council meetings.
Dresner's campaign platform is focused on improving housing affordability, expanding transportation options, and maintaining Kirkland's excellent parks and recreation spaces. He supports policies that would make it easier and less expensive to build new homes, thereby alleviating Kirkland's severe housing shortage. He hopes to improve transit options by increasing the frequency of public transportation and creating more walker- and biker-friendly spaces.
Kurt Dresner is someone who clearly cares deeply about our community and is well-versed in the issues facing residents. We enthusiastically recommend voting for Kurt Dresner for Kirkland City Council, Position 7.
Redmond City Council
Melissa Stuart is running to retain Position 4 on the Redmond City Council. Prior to joining the council in 2022, Stuart worked for the Boys & Girls Clubs of King County and Youth Eastside Services. She also served on the board of Zero Waste Washington and volunteered as a Climate Justice Steward with the Alliance for Jobs & Clean Energy.
During her tenure on the council, Stuart advocated for increased community connection through public listening sessions held throughout Redmond. As a council member, she also championed housing affordability through zoning changes and incentive packages. She plans to continue advocating for affordable housing solutions if re-elected. Furthermore, Stuart leveraged her background in climate justice to advocate for greener practices in Redmond, including promoting development near transit hubs and supporting efforts to divert construction waste from landfills.
Due to her previous background in climate justice, as well as multiple endorsements from our partner organizations, we recommend Melissa Stuart for re-election to the Redmond City Council, Position 4.
Melissa Stuart is running to retain Position 4 on the Redmond City Council. Prior to joining the council in 2022, Stuart worked for the Boys & Girls Clubs of King County and Youth Eastside Services. She also served on the board of Zero Waste Washington and volunteered as a Climate Justice Steward with the Alliance for Jobs & Clean Energy.
During her tenure on the council, Stuart advocated for increased community connection through public listening sessions held throughout Redmond. As a council member, she also championed housing affordability through zoning changes and incentive packages. She plans to continue advocating for affordable housing solutions if re-elected. Furthermore, Stuart leveraged her background in climate justice to advocate for greener practices in Redmond, including promoting development near transit hubs and supporting efforts to divert construction waste from landfills.
Due to her previous background in climate justice, as well as multiple endorsements from our partner organizations, we recommend Melissa Stuart for re-election to the Redmond City Council, Position 4.
Renton City Council
Michael "Mike" Westgaard is running for Renton City Council, Position 1. Westgaard is a dedicated community advocate, actively participating in the initiatives to raise the minimum wage and ban housing discrimination against people returning from incarceration. To this role, he brings lived experiences that help shape his approach to public policy. As a union worker and someone who battled substance abuse, he understands what his constituents need and will be a strong leader on those causes.
If elected, Westgaard would prioritize raising the minimum wage, supporting sustainable transportation, redefining public safety, and addressing the growing housing crisis. He is a vocal advocate for alternatives to policing, like crisis care centers and educational professionals trained in mental health support and crisis prevention in schools. He plans to address the housing crisis by expanding affordable housing options and introducing rent stabilization for both residential and commercial properties.
Based on his progressive values, personal experiences, and community leadership, we recommend voting for Michael Westgaard for Renton City Council Position 1.
Michael "Mike" Westgaard is running for Renton City Council, Position 1. Westgaard is a dedicated community advocate, actively participating in the initiatives to raise the minimum wage and ban housing discrimination against people returning from incarceration. To this role, he brings lived experiences that help shape his approach to public policy. As a union worker and someone who battled substance abuse, he understands what his constituents need and will be a strong leader on those causes.
If elected, Westgaard would prioritize raising the minimum wage, supporting sustainable transportation, redefining public safety, and addressing the growing housing crisis. He is a vocal advocate for alternatives to policing, like crisis care centers and educational professionals trained in mental health support and crisis prevention in schools. He plans to address the housing crisis by expanding affordable housing options and introducing rent stabilization for both residential and commercial properties.
Based on his progressive values, personal experiences, and community leadership, we recommend voting for Michael Westgaard for Renton City Council Position 1.
Incumbent Ruth Pérez is running for another term on the Renton City Council, Position 6. She was first appointed to the council in 2014 and has been re-elected since. Pérez also served as council president in 2020. She worked in state government for Governor Gary Locke promoting trade and economic development. Pérez also helped expand Spanish-language education programs during her 10 years working for the Consulate of Mexico in Seattle.
Pérez's re-election campaign is prioritizing improved transportation, sustainability, public safety, and other key issues. She is a strong advocate for expanding light rail services into Renton and has contributed to improved transit services and connectivity throughout the city. In the past, she supported increasing the minimum wage in Renton to help keep pace with the region's rising cost of living. Additionally, she takes a broader approach to public safety, particularly in expanding investments in mental and behavioral health professionals as an alternative to traditional policing.
In April 2025, Pérez was one of the council members who seemed hesitant to pursue a proclamation or resolution specifically aimed at protecting members of the LGBTQ community in Renton. While we appreciate that Pérez wanted to take a more inclusive approach to the proclamation to ensure that no groups would be left out, we would have liked a firmer or concrete decision on the matter. Since the initial debate on the council, Renton has seen an increase in targeted attacks on the LGBTQ+ community.
Overall, Ruth Pérez has been a reliable voice on the council, advocating for solutions that serve the best interests of Renton residents. We recommend re-electing her for another term on the council.
Incumbent Ruth Pérez is running for another term on the Renton City Council, Position 6. She was first appointed to the council in 2014 and has been re-elected since. Pérez also served as council president in 2020. She worked in state government for Governor Gary Locke promoting trade and economic development. Pérez also helped expand Spanish-language education programs during her 10 years working for the Consulate of Mexico in Seattle.
Pérez's re-election campaign is prioritizing improved transportation, sustainability, public safety, and other key issues. She is a strong advocate for expanding light rail services into Renton and has contributed to improved transit services and connectivity throughout the city. In the past, she supported increasing the minimum wage in Renton to help keep pace with the region's rising cost of living. Additionally, she takes a broader approach to public safety, particularly in expanding investments in mental and behavioral health professionals as an alternative to traditional policing.
In April 2025, Pérez was one of the council members who seemed hesitant to pursue a proclamation or resolution specifically aimed at protecting members of the LGBTQ community in Renton. While we appreciate that Pérez wanted to take a more inclusive approach to the proclamation to ensure that no groups would be left out, we would have liked a firmer or concrete decision on the matter. Since the initial debate on the council, Renton has seen an increase in targeted attacks on the LGBTQ+ community.
Overall, Ruth Pérez has been a reliable voice on the council, advocating for solutions that serve the best interests of Renton residents. We recommend re-electing her for another term on the council.
Sammamish City Council
Lin Yang is running for Sammamish City Council, Position 5. Yang is a Chinese-American immigrant who was raised by a single mom in Sammamish. Yang highlighted the community that welcomed him and his mom when they were new to the city and how they became their support system. Yang went on to earn two degrees in public policy and eventually returned to Sammamish to raise his own family. Yang started the Sammamish Independent, a local newspaper that provided student journalists with an opportunity to get involved in their community.
Yang's campaign platform is focused on expanding housing and transit options to reduce the cost of living. Citing the astronomical median home price of $1.7 million, he wants to add more homes and increase affordability requirements for new housing developments. Additionally, he would prioritize creating a community center to foster stronger connections between neighbors.
Lin Yang is clearly an involved community member who wants to give back to his community what they gave to him. Lin Yang is the best choice for Sammamish City Council, Position 5.
Lin Yang is running for Sammamish City Council, Position 5. Yang is a Chinese-American immigrant who was raised by a single mom in Sammamish. Yang highlighted the community that welcomed him and his mom when they were new to the city and how they became their support system. Yang went on to earn two degrees in public policy and eventually returned to Sammamish to raise his own family. Yang started the Sammamish Independent, a local newspaper that provided student journalists with an opportunity to get involved in their community.
Yang's campaign platform is focused on expanding housing and transit options to reduce the cost of living. Citing the astronomical median home price of $1.7 million, he wants to add more homes and increase affordability requirements for new housing developments. Additionally, he would prioritize creating a community center to foster stronger connections between neighbors.
Lin Yang is clearly an involved community member who wants to give back to his community what they gave to him. Lin Yang is the best choice for Sammamish City Council, Position 5.
Karen Howe is running to retain her seat in Position 7 on the Sammamish City Council. She currently serves as the Mayor of Sammamish.
During her time on the council, Howe has been an advocate for improving affordable housing options available to residents of all income levels. She is supportive of the Town Center Plan, which includes 2,000 market-rate and affordable housing units, while balancing sustainable development. A home is the most basic human need, and increased options allow our teachers, healthcare workers, and service providers to continue living in the communities they serve.
Howe advocates for maintaining the things that keep Sammamish beautiful and connected: well-maintained parks, safe bike paths, and enhanced public transit options. She is a proponent of introducing a teen community center to help youth engagement in the town.
Karen Howe has earned your vote to serve another term on the Sammamish City Council in Position 7.
Karen Howe is running to retain her seat in Position 7 on the Sammamish City Council. She currently serves as the Mayor of Sammamish.
During her time on the council, Howe has been an advocate for improving affordable housing options available to residents of all income levels. She is supportive of the Town Center Plan, which includes 2,000 market-rate and affordable housing units, while balancing sustainable development. A home is the most basic human need, and increased options allow our teachers, healthcare workers, and service providers to continue living in the communities they serve.
Howe advocates for maintaining the things that keep Sammamish beautiful and connected: well-maintained parks, safe bike paths, and enhanced public transit options. She is a proponent of introducing a teen community center to help youth engagement in the town.
Karen Howe has earned your vote to serve another term on the Sammamish City Council in Position 7.
SeaTac City Council
Social worker Caitlin Konya is running for SeaTac City Council, Position 2. Konya has worked for the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services for the past four years. She was raised in South King County by two active union members who instilled in her the importance of workers’ rights. She is a first-time candidate but has volunteered with SeaTac’s Community Services Advisory Committee since 2023 and is a member of WFSE Local 872.
Konya is campaigning on an optimistic vision of affordability, access, and abundance in SeaTac. If elected, she aims to support the small business community, fund public infrastructure repairs and upgrades, and develop a sustainable development model that enables increasing density. Previously, Konya offered outspoken support for making the wealthy pay what they owe in taxes to support our youth and working families, as well as state workers who have borne the brunt of budget cuts.
We recommend electing Caitlyn Konya for SeaTac City Council, Position 2.
Social worker Caitlin Konya is running for SeaTac City Council, Position 2. Konya has worked for the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services for the past four years. She was raised in South King County by two active union members who instilled in her the importance of workers’ rights. She is a first-time candidate but has volunteered with SeaTac’s Community Services Advisory Committee since 2023 and is a member of WFSE Local 872.
Konya is campaigning on an optimistic vision of affordability, access, and abundance in SeaTac. If elected, she aims to support the small business community, fund public infrastructure repairs and upgrades, and develop a sustainable development model that enables increasing density. Previously, Konya offered outspoken support for making the wealthy pay what they owe in taxes to support our youth and working families, as well as state workers who have borne the brunt of budget cuts.
We recommend electing Caitlyn Konya for SeaTac City Council, Position 2.
Mayor Mohamed Egal is running for re-election to Position 4 on the SeaTac City Council. Egal is a Somali immigrant who was first elected to the city council in 2021 with a slate of other progressive candidates. He is a job developer at Hopelink, an organization that connects immigrants, individuals facing poverty, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable community members with the resources they need. Egal has spent over a decade in social and human services, including as a King County Municipal Court interpreter.
Egal has been a thoughtful community leader on the council. He has focused on the issues of affordable housing, health care access, community safety, and workforce development as key concerns facing SeaTac. He helped lead the creation of the SeaTac Small Business Capital Access Program, which provides local small businesses with a range of support services. He has also worked to reduce the environmental impact of the airport on the SeaTac community. Egal has yet to release a campaign platform as of mid-September, but his track record shows that he would continue to lead with community values if re-elected.
We recommend re-electing Mohamed Egal to another term on the SeaTac City Council in Position 4, due to his commitment to progressive leadership for the community.
Mayor Mohamed Egal is running for re-election to Position 4 on the SeaTac City Council. Egal is a Somali immigrant who was first elected to the city council in 2021 with a slate of other progressive candidates. He is a job developer at Hopelink, an organization that connects immigrants, individuals facing poverty, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable community members with the resources they need. Egal has spent over a decade in social and human services, including as a King County Municipal Court interpreter.
Egal has been a thoughtful community leader on the council. He has focused on the issues of affordable housing, health care access, community safety, and workforce development as key concerns facing SeaTac. He helped lead the creation of the SeaTac Small Business Capital Access Program, which provides local small businesses with a range of support services. He has also worked to reduce the environmental impact of the airport on the SeaTac community. Egal has yet to release a campaign platform as of mid-September, but his track record shows that he would continue to lead with community values if re-elected.
We recommend re-electing Mohamed Egal to another term on the SeaTac City Council in Position 4, due to his commitment to progressive leadership for the community.
Seattle Mayor
Katie Wilson is running for Mayor of Seattle on a bold progressive platform. Wilson is the general secretary for the Transit Riders Union, which advocates for public transit, affordable housing, and more. She regularly contributes to The Stranger, The Urbanist, and other local progressive publications. She is very active organizing in the community, having helped create the ORCA LIFT program and the Seattle Youth ORCA Program, as well as serving on the Seattle Revenue Stabilization Workgroup, which Mayor Harrell disbanded. She is a coalition builder and renter with strong community relationships and a proven track record of advocacy.
Like Wilson’s career in organizing, her campaign for mayor is exceptionally progressive in vision, values, and support. She is advocating for making the wealthy and corporations pay what they owe so that our communities can afford housing and health care. During our interview, she advocated for policies that would ensure clean air and water for all, protect civil liberties, expand access to substance abuse treatment, and support diverse arts and cultural offerings.
Wilson is an advocate for Seattle’s new social housing policy, and she supports even more diversity in affordable housing types as well as increased shelter capacity and wraparound services. She also shared support for scaling up the LEAD diversion program, safeguarding the rights of immigrants and other targets of Trump’s federal attacks, investing public funding into local news, and more. As a renter, Wilson understands the challenges many Seattleites face with the rapidly increasing cost of housing.
Wilson’s critics question whether she has the experience and ability to make the jump from being an extremely progressive campaigner running a small non-profit to managing the tough political and practical realities of governing a major city.
Wilson is a good choice for mayor if you're looking for a progressive organizer with policy experience and a strong vision for challenging existing approaches to Seattle's problems.
Katie Wilson is running for Mayor of Seattle on a bold progressive platform. Wilson is the general secretary for the Transit Riders Union, which advocates for public transit, affordable housing, and more. She regularly contributes to The Stranger, The Urbanist, and other local progressive publications. She is very active organizing in the community, having helped create the ORCA LIFT program and the Seattle Youth ORCA Program, as well as serving on the Seattle Revenue Stabilization Workgroup, which Mayor Harrell disbanded. She is a coalition builder and renter with strong community relationships and a proven track record of advocacy.
Like Wilson’s career in organizing, her campaign for mayor is exceptionally progressive in vision, values, and support. She is advocating for making the wealthy and corporations pay what they owe so that our communities can afford housing and health care. During our interview, she advocated for policies that would ensure clean air and water for all, protect civil liberties, expand access to substance abuse treatment, and support diverse arts and cultural offerings.
Wilson is an advocate for Seattle’s new social housing policy, and she supports even more diversity in affordable housing types as well as increased shelter capacity and wraparound services. She also shared support for scaling up the LEAD diversion program, safeguarding the rights of immigrants and other targets of Trump’s federal attacks, investing public funding into local news, and more. As a renter, Wilson understands the challenges many Seattleites face with the rapidly increasing cost of housing.
Wilson’s critics question whether she has the experience and ability to make the jump from being an extremely progressive campaigner running a small non-profit to managing the tough political and practical realities of governing a major city.
Wilson is a good choice for mayor if you're looking for a progressive organizer with policy experience and a strong vision for challenging existing approaches to Seattle's problems.
Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell is running for a second term. Harrell is an attorney who has experience representing victims of workplace discrimination and minority entrepreneurs. He was first elected to the city council in 2007 and served three terms. Harrell won his mayoral campaign in 2021 as a more centrist Democratic candidate, focusing on bridging relationships between community members and local government.
In office, Harrell has pursued an agenda focused on public safety, economic opportunity, and a high quality of life. Harrell has received mixed reviews from progressive organizations and advocates.
His supporters praise his steady and balanced support for Seattle's post-COVID economic recovery in the city’s struggling downtown core. While he hasn’t been an outspoken advocate of police reform, Harrell's supporters point to his launch of the CARE department. This alternative public safety branch has responded to 1,400 crisis calls, diverting work from law enforcement and providing a more appropriate behavioral health response.
Harrell won praise from a coalition of unions representing city workers for negotiating a new contract that respects their work and helps keep up with the cost of living. In addition, he blocked City Council efforts to undermine Seattle’s minimum wage. He earned the endorsements of some transportation advocates due to his support for transit choices in the largest transportation levy in the city's history. He also led the development and passage of the largest low-income housing levy in Seattle's history. Harrell’s platform emphasizes his continued support for the revitalization of the downtown core, as well as protecting Seattle residents from the Trump administration.
Harrell recently proposed addressing the city’s revenue shortfalls by substantially increasing business taxes on larger businesses. He significantly increased the exemption for small businesses and used the proceeds to fund programs that support housing stability, homeless services, food security, and small business sustainability.
Harrell has also faced criticism from some progressives in Seattle on many issues. His critics argue that he has not demonstrated the leadership and vision necessary to make progress on daunting challenges. One example is the high cost of housing. The Harrell administration has a unique opportunity to reshape Seattle's housing market through the 20-year comprehensive plan, which sets the city's strategy for building and growth. While the Mayor’s office has proposed a substantial expansion of the city’s housing capacity, they also scaled back growth opportunities from an early proposal last year. In recent months, following pushback from some vocal anti-density city council members, Harrell's office has further reduced the potential for building more affordable, higher-density housing. Housing advocates point to this backtracking as an example of where a clearer vision and more decisive leadership from the mayor's office were needed to overcome opposition on the city council. If this weakened plan is adopted, Seattle will miss out on a critical opportunity to support badly needed affordable housing, which will make it even more difficult for teachers, nurses, and artists to live in our city.
Harrell has also come under fire for the workplace culture in his office. Multiple sources described it as sexist and toxic, according to KUOW.
Harrell is not a visionary progressive leader who will drive major changes, but he is a moderate Democrat who is doing a reasonable job of balancing competing interests and managing major challenges. He is a good choice for voters who want a more centrist and experienced candidate for mayor.
Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell is running for a second term. Harrell is an attorney who has experience representing victims of workplace discrimination and minority entrepreneurs. He was first elected to the city council in 2007 and served three terms. Harrell won his mayoral campaign in 2021 as a more centrist Democratic candidate, focusing on bridging relationships between community members and local government.
In office, Harrell has pursued an agenda focused on public safety, economic opportunity, and a high quality of life. Harrell has received mixed reviews from progressive organizations and advocates.
His supporters praise his steady and balanced support for Seattle's post-COVID economic recovery in the city’s struggling downtown core. While he hasn’t been an outspoken advocate of police reform, Harrell's supporters point to his launch of the CARE department. This alternative public safety branch has responded to 1,400 crisis calls, diverting work from law enforcement and providing a more appropriate behavioral health response.
Harrell won praise from a coalition of unions representing city workers for negotiating a new contract that respects their work and helps keep up with the cost of living. In addition, he blocked City Council efforts to undermine Seattle’s minimum wage. He earned the endorsements of some transportation advocates due to his support for transit choices in the largest transportation levy in the city's history. He also led the development and passage of the largest low-income housing levy in Seattle's history. Harrell’s platform emphasizes his continued support for the revitalization of the downtown core, as well as protecting Seattle residents from the Trump administration.
Harrell recently proposed addressing the city’s revenue shortfalls by substantially increasing business taxes on larger businesses. He significantly increased the exemption for small businesses and used the proceeds to fund programs that support housing stability, homeless services, food security, and small business sustainability.
Harrell has also faced criticism from some progressives in Seattle on many issues. His critics argue that he has not demonstrated the leadership and vision necessary to make progress on daunting challenges. One example is the high cost of housing. The Harrell administration has a unique opportunity to reshape Seattle's housing market through the 20-year comprehensive plan, which sets the city's strategy for building and growth. While the Mayor’s office has proposed a substantial expansion of the city’s housing capacity, they also scaled back growth opportunities from an early proposal last year. In recent months, following pushback from some vocal anti-density city council members, Harrell's office has further reduced the potential for building more affordable, higher-density housing. Housing advocates point to this backtracking as an example of where a clearer vision and more decisive leadership from the mayor's office were needed to overcome opposition on the city council. If this weakened plan is adopted, Seattle will miss out on a critical opportunity to support badly needed affordable housing, which will make it even more difficult for teachers, nurses, and artists to live in our city.
Harrell has also come under fire for the workplace culture in his office. Multiple sources described it as sexist and toxic, according to KUOW.
Harrell is not a visionary progressive leader who will drive major changes, but he is a moderate Democrat who is doing a reasonable job of balancing competing interests and managing major challenges. He is a good choice for voters who want a more centrist and experienced candidate for mayor.
Seattle City Attorney
Former federal prosecutor Erika Evans is running a progressive campaign for Seattle City Attorney. Evans quit her position as a federal prosecutor earlier this year, after four years of working on hate crimes, drug trafficking, and violent crimes, due to the increasingly dangerous executive orders she saw from the Trump administration. She has a diverse legal background, which also includes work as a pro tem judge for the SeaTac, Tukwila, and Puyallup municipal courts, as well as four years spent in Seattle’s city attorney's office.
Evans’ departure from the federal prosecution position is emblematic of her defining priority in this race: opposing Trump’s undemocratic and unjust policies. In our interview, Evans shared her vision for preparing the city attorney’s office to defend DEI, reproductive health freedoms, and climate protections, even proposing that the office add an entirely new and staffed environmental law section. She is proud of Seattle’s status as a sanctuary city and is unafraid to sue the Trump administration for violations of civil liberties in our community, drawing on her prosecutorial and federal experience.
If elected, Evans would reinstate the Seattle Community Court and expand the employment office to protect against wage theft. In addition, she would prioritize negotiating a new police contract with a greater emphasis on accountability, which is motivated by her own experience of being illegally detained by the police as a law student.
Erika Evans is a fearless and passionate leader who will stand up to attacks from the Trump administration. She would be a strong choice for Seattle City Attorney.
Former federal prosecutor Erika Evans is running a progressive campaign for Seattle City Attorney. Evans quit her position as a federal prosecutor earlier this year, after four years of working on hate crimes, drug trafficking, and violent crimes, due to the increasingly dangerous executive orders she saw from the Trump administration. She has a diverse legal background, which also includes work as a pro tem judge for the SeaTac, Tukwila, and Puyallup municipal courts, as well as four years spent in Seattle’s city attorney's office.
Evans’ departure from the federal prosecution position is emblematic of her defining priority in this race: opposing Trump’s undemocratic and unjust policies. In our interview, Evans shared her vision for preparing the city attorney’s office to defend DEI, reproductive health freedoms, and climate protections, even proposing that the office add an entirely new and staffed environmental law section. She is proud of Seattle’s status as a sanctuary city and is unafraid to sue the Trump administration for violations of civil liberties in our community, drawing on her prosecutorial and federal experience.
If elected, Evans would reinstate the Seattle Community Court and expand the employment office to protect against wage theft. In addition, she would prioritize negotiating a new police contract with a greater emphasis on accountability, which is motivated by her own experience of being illegally detained by the police as a law student.
Erika Evans is a fearless and passionate leader who will stand up to attacks from the Trump administration. She would be a strong choice for Seattle City Attorney.
Seattle City Council
Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck is seeking re-election to the Seattle City Council in Position 8, a citywide seat she first won last year. Before joining the city council, Rinck worked as an assistant director for policy, planning, and state operations for the University of Washington. She also worked as a policy analyst for the Sound Cities Association and with the King County Regional Homelessness Authority. She has a long history of community empowerment, including raising funds for reproductive health care and previously serving on the board of Fuse Washington, the organization that produces this guide.
Rinck's familial experience with homelessness, incarceration, and substance abuse guides her approach to city issues and our local social safety net. Since January, Rinck has worked to protect Seattle residents from the effects of Trump’s dangerous agenda. Her council policy goals include making progress on climate change through investments in clean energy, electrification infrastructure, and public transportation. Rinck also aims to support greater housing access across all income levels, increase pathways to higher education, and continue building lasting community safety through policy initiatives that address gun violence and explore alternatives to policing.
Alexis Mercedes Rinck is the clear choice for Position 8 on the Seattle City Council.
Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck is seeking re-election to the Seattle City Council in Position 8, a citywide seat she first won last year. Before joining the city council, Rinck worked as an assistant director for policy, planning, and state operations for the University of Washington. She also worked as a policy analyst for the Sound Cities Association and with the King County Regional Homelessness Authority. She has a long history of community empowerment, including raising funds for reproductive health care and previously serving on the board of Fuse Washington, the organization that produces this guide.
Rinck's familial experience with homelessness, incarceration, and substance abuse guides her approach to city issues and our local social safety net. Since January, Rinck has worked to protect Seattle residents from the effects of Trump’s dangerous agenda. Her council policy goals include making progress on climate change through investments in clean energy, electrification infrastructure, and public transportation. Rinck also aims to support greater housing access across all income levels, increase pathways to higher education, and continue building lasting community safety through policy initiatives that address gun violence and explore alternatives to policing.
Alexis Mercedes Rinck is the clear choice for Position 8 on the Seattle City Council.
Dionne Foster is running for Seattle City Council, Position 9 (At-Large), challenging incumbent Sara Nelson. Foster enters this race with government experience and a robust background in the nonprofit sector. Her previous work includes serving as a climate policy analyst for Puget Sound Sage, a senior advisor in the city's Office of Policy and Innovation, and a senior program officer at the Seattle Foundation. Most recently, Foster served as the executive director of the Progress Alliance of Washington, a nonprofit committed to racial justice and equity.
In our interview with her, Foster demonstrated her passion for finding progressive solutions to the issues facing our community. Her goals include promoting healthy and safe communities through investing in intervention and prevention strategies to treat drug addiction, as well as continued support for the CARE Team and gun violence prevention. Foster is also a proponent of affordable housing solutions, such as increased density, rent stabilization, and anti-displacement policies. In addition, she supports housing with wraparound services for individuals experiencing housing instability.
Foster's other priorities include climate resilience, workforce protections, and thriving communities. She strongly supports policies that ensure equitable energy access and fair pricing, while also improving accessibility to public transit.
Throughout her professional career, Dionne Foster has consistently demonstrated a clear commitment to collaboration and equitable policies that benefit everyone in our community. She is a practical progressive who understands government and will bring much-needed leadership to the City Council. We enthusiastically recommend Dionne Foster for Seattle City Council, Position 9.
Dionne Foster is running for Seattle City Council, Position 9 (At-Large), challenging incumbent Sara Nelson. Foster enters this race with government experience and a robust background in the nonprofit sector. Her previous work includes serving as a climate policy analyst for Puget Sound Sage, a senior advisor in the city's Office of Policy and Innovation, and a senior program officer at the Seattle Foundation. Most recently, Foster served as the executive director of the Progress Alliance of Washington, a nonprofit committed to racial justice and equity.
In our interview with her, Foster demonstrated her passion for finding progressive solutions to the issues facing our community. Her goals include promoting healthy and safe communities through investing in intervention and prevention strategies to treat drug addiction, as well as continued support for the CARE Team and gun violence prevention. Foster is also a proponent of affordable housing solutions, such as increased density, rent stabilization, and anti-displacement policies. In addition, she supports housing with wraparound services for individuals experiencing housing instability.
Foster's other priorities include climate resilience, workforce protections, and thriving communities. She strongly supports policies that ensure equitable energy access and fair pricing, while also improving accessibility to public transit.
Throughout her professional career, Dionne Foster has consistently demonstrated a clear commitment to collaboration and equitable policies that benefit everyone in our community. She is a practical progressive who understands government and will bring much-needed leadership to the City Council. We enthusiastically recommend Dionne Foster for Seattle City Council, Position 9.
Tukwila City Council
Verna Seal is running for re-election for Tukwila City Council, Position 1. Seal previously served on the council from 2006 to 2021 and was re-appointed to Position 7 after De'Sean Quinn moved to the King County Council. In her professional career, Seal worked as an immigration paralegal, supporting clients as they navigated complex systems.
Seal's re-election campaign focuses on a range of priorities, including clean parks and public spaces, affordability, and safety. She hopes to utilize her background in environmentalism to develop a more efficient, safer, and sustainable truck route, along with other eco-friendly solutions. Seal highlighted her accomplishments from previous terms, such as launching traffic calming programs and reducing crime along International Boulevard, without overextending police resources.
While we would like to see some more specific policy solutions proposed in her campaign, we recommend re-electing Verna Seal for Tukwila City Council, Position 1.
Verna Seal is running for re-election for Tukwila City Council, Position 1. Seal previously served on the council from 2006 to 2021 and was re-appointed to Position 7 after De'Sean Quinn moved to the King County Council. In her professional career, Seal worked as an immigration paralegal, supporting clients as they navigated complex systems.
Seal's re-election campaign focuses on a range of priorities, including clean parks and public spaces, affordability, and safety. She hopes to utilize her background in environmentalism to develop a more efficient, safer, and sustainable truck route, along with other eco-friendly solutions. Seal highlighted her accomplishments from previous terms, such as launching traffic calming programs and reducing crime along International Boulevard, without overextending police resources.
While we would like to see some more specific policy solutions proposed in her campaign, we recommend re-electing Verna Seal for Tukwila City Council, Position 1.
Hannah Hedrick is running to be retained for Tukwila City Council, Position 3, after earning an appointment to the council in January of 2024. Hedrick is a committed public steward with experience in mentorship, workforce development, environmental protection, and more.
Hedrick is running a progressive campaign that focuses on housing, human services, and sustainability. She explicitly declared housing to be a human right and proposed boosting housing development and strengthening tenant protections. Hedrick prioritizes inclusivity in her approach to governance, particularly in public safety. She is an advocate for Tukwila's co-responder program, emphasizing the need for de-escalation training and avoiding unnecessary arrests.
Hannah Hedrick has a progressive vision for Tukwila, prioritizing compassionate and strategic solutions. She is our choice for Tukwila City Council, Position 3.
Hannah Hedrick is running to be retained for Tukwila City Council, Position 3, after earning an appointment to the council in January of 2024. Hedrick is a committed public steward with experience in mentorship, workforce development, environmental protection, and more.
Hedrick is running a progressive campaign that focuses on housing, human services, and sustainability. She explicitly declared housing to be a human right and proposed boosting housing development and strengthening tenant protections. Hedrick prioritizes inclusivity in her approach to governance, particularly in public safety. She is an advocate for Tukwila's co-responder program, emphasizing the need for de-escalation training and avoiding unnecessary arrests.
Hannah Hedrick has a progressive vision for Tukwila, prioritizing compassionate and strategic solutions. She is our choice for Tukwila City Council, Position 3.
Kate Kruller is running for re-election for Tukwila City Council, Position 5. Kruller has served on the council for three terms and has held numerous community service positions.
Kruller's priorities include affordable housing, reliable public safety, improved transportation, and fiscal responsibility. During her tenure, Kruller supported tiny home villages and their hosts, acknowledging their impact on providing a path to permanent housing. She is also prioritizing equity and inclusion by awarding contracts to LGBTQ+ and minority-owned businesses and implementing anti-discrimination laws at the city level. On public safety, she is focused on harm reduction and accountability through body cameras, de-escalation training, and adding behavioral health professionals to aid in non-emergency calls.
While there are two progressive candidates in this race, we lean towards re-electing Kate Kruller due to her extensive experience on the council and endorsements from our progressive partners.
Kate Kruller is running for re-election for Tukwila City Council, Position 5. Kruller has served on the council for three terms and has held numerous community service positions.
Kruller's priorities include affordable housing, reliable public safety, improved transportation, and fiscal responsibility. During her tenure, Kruller supported tiny home villages and their hosts, acknowledging their impact on providing a path to permanent housing. She is also prioritizing equity and inclusion by awarding contracts to LGBTQ+ and minority-owned businesses and implementing anti-discrimination laws at the city level. On public safety, she is focused on harm reduction and accountability through body cameras, de-escalation training, and adding behavioral health professionals to aid in non-emergency calls.
While there are two progressive candidates in this race, we lean towards re-electing Kate Kruller due to her extensive experience on the council and endorsements from our progressive partners.
Woodinville City Council
Amber Wise is running for Woodinville City Council, Position 3. Wise is currently the Vice Chair of the Public Spaces Commission in Woodinville. She is also a meatcutter apprentice at PCC- Redmond.
Wise's campaign is community-centered, prioritizing engagement and collaboration. She is supportive of a more walkable and environmentally friendly downtown area that fosters relationships between community members, businesses, health care providers, and more. She also supports the proposed community center and the Eastrail Trail to expand access to nature.
While we would like to hear more about Amber Wise's plans and proposed solutions, we recognize her endorsements from our partner organizations and recommend her for Woodinville City Council, Position 3.
Amber Wise is running for Woodinville City Council, Position 3. Wise is currently the Vice Chair of the Public Spaces Commission in Woodinville. She is also a meatcutter apprentice at PCC- Redmond.
Wise's campaign is community-centered, prioritizing engagement and collaboration. She is supportive of a more walkable and environmentally friendly downtown area that fosters relationships between community members, businesses, health care providers, and more. She also supports the proposed community center and the Eastrail Trail to expand access to nature.
While we would like to hear more about Amber Wise's plans and proposed solutions, we recognize her endorsements from our partner organizations and recommend her for Woodinville City Council, Position 3.
Seattle School Board
Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below school district races on your ballot.
Community organizer Joe Mizrahi is running to be retained on the Seattle School Board in Director Position 4. He was appointed to the role last year to fill the seat vacated by Vivian Song. Mizrahi is the Secretary-Treasurer and Co-Executive Director of UFCW 3000, a union that represents grocery, retail, cannabis, meat-packing, and other industries in the state. He is also a parent to three students at Seattle Public Schools and comes from a family of teachers with a refugee background.
On the school board, Mizrahi represents schools, students, families, and faculty in Fremont, Queen Anne, South Lake Union, and parts of downtown. He wants to address systemic equity concerns while protecting resources amid the SPS budget crisis, so that our schools can remain a place where all students have the opportunity to build bright futures, regardless of their background or neighborhood. With his union background, Mizrahi brings a unique view of advocacy, financial stability, and opportunity to school board leadership.
In his re-election campaign, Mizrahi is prioritizing equity, community engagement, and accountable leadership. He is an advocate for historically underserved students and protecting programs like dual language instruction. He intends to incorporate community priorities and long-term funding avenues in the district's strategic plan.
Joe Mizrahi is a caring and thoughtful leader who has earned your vote to be retained on the Seattle School Board in Director Position 4.
Community organizer Joe Mizrahi is running to be retained on the Seattle School Board in Director Position 4. He was appointed to the role last year to fill the seat vacated by Vivian Song. Mizrahi is the Secretary-Treasurer and Co-Executive Director of UFCW 3000, a union that represents grocery, retail, cannabis, meat-packing, and other industries in the state. He is also a parent to three students at Seattle Public Schools and comes from a family of teachers with a refugee background.
On the school board, Mizrahi represents schools, students, families, and faculty in Fremont, Queen Anne, South Lake Union, and parts of downtown. He wants to address systemic equity concerns while protecting resources amid the SPS budget crisis, so that our schools can remain a place where all students have the opportunity to build bright futures, regardless of their background or neighborhood. With his union background, Mizrahi brings a unique view of advocacy, financial stability, and opportunity to school board leadership.
In his re-election campaign, Mizrahi is prioritizing equity, community engagement, and accountable leadership. He is an advocate for historically underserved students and protecting programs like dual language instruction. He intends to incorporate community priorities and long-term funding avenues in the district's strategic plan.
Joe Mizrahi is a caring and thoughtful leader who has earned your vote to be retained on the Seattle School Board in Director Position 4.
Vivian Song is once again seeking a seat on the Seattle School Board, this time in District 5. Song served on the school board from 2021 through January 2024, when she resigned after moving outside of her seat’s district lines for family reasons. She is a parent to district students, an Asian American daughter of immigrants, and a former president of the PTSA. Song has a professional background as a small business owner and a finance professional for companies, including Google and Goldman Sachs.
Song has maintained a strong equity orientation over the years, emphasizing the need for every child to have equal educational opportunities, regardless of their identity, background, or family resources. For example, she examined how Seattle’s North-end schools have supplemented their budgets with strong PTA fundraising from parents, while South-end schools operate with fewer resources. Song has advocated for making stronger appeals to the state for equitable funding across all Seattle schools to address this gap. Now, she hopes to rejoin the board and continue fighting to boost enrollment, build vocational and college pathways, and oppose Trump’s attacks on public education.
In her current campaign, Song continues to focus on equity and inclusion in Seattle City Schools. She is prioritizing equitable learning opportunities with multi-cultural curricula such as ethnic studies and language immersion. Song is supportive of student safety measures, especially against rising gun violence, mental health challenges, and threats from the federal government. She supports permanent and equitable funding for counselors, nurses, social workers, and mental health professionals.
Song's campaign leads with compassion and care for the well-being and success of Seattle students. We recommend Vivian Song for Seattle School Board from District 5.
Vivian Song is once again seeking a seat on the Seattle School Board, this time in District 5. Song served on the school board from 2021 through January 2024, when she resigned after moving outside of her seat’s district lines for family reasons. She is a parent to district students, an Asian American daughter of immigrants, and a former president of the PTSA. Song has a professional background as a small business owner and a finance professional for companies, including Google and Goldman Sachs.
Song has maintained a strong equity orientation over the years, emphasizing the need for every child to have equal educational opportunities, regardless of their identity, background, or family resources. For example, she examined how Seattle’s North-end schools have supplemented their budgets with strong PTA fundraising from parents, while South-end schools operate with fewer resources. Song has advocated for making stronger appeals to the state for equitable funding across all Seattle schools to address this gap. Now, she hopes to rejoin the board and continue fighting to boost enrollment, build vocational and college pathways, and oppose Trump’s attacks on public education.
In her current campaign, Song continues to focus on equity and inclusion in Seattle City Schools. She is prioritizing equitable learning opportunities with multi-cultural curricula such as ethnic studies and language immersion. Song is supportive of student safety measures, especially against rising gun violence, mental health challenges, and threats from the federal government. She supports permanent and equitable funding for counselors, nurses, social workers, and mental health professionals.
Song's campaign leads with compassion and care for the well-being and success of Seattle students. We recommend Vivian Song for Seattle School Board from District 5.