The 2025 primary election in Washington state is set to feature several crucial local and statewide races, and voters should prepare for significant contests on their ballots.
Among the key races, the Seattle mayoral election stands out as incumbent Bruce Harrell seeks to secure reelection against eight challengers.
Harrell, who took office in 2022, aims to be the first Seattle mayor in 15 years to achieve reelection.
His challengers include Ry Armstrong, Clinton Bliss, Joe Mallahan, Joe Malloy, Thaddeus Whelan, Isaiah Willoughby, and Katie Wilson, along with Jacob Perasso as a write-in candidate.
As of July 10, Harrell has raised funds amounting to $449,980, closely followed by Katie Wilson with $449,828.
Joe Mallahan stands at $122,528 while Ry Armstrong has garnered $122,167 in fundraising efforts.
During his term, Harrell emphasized his pride in rebuilding the police department and reducing crime rates by approximately 18%.
He also highlighted significant investments in affordable housing, arguing that enhancing public safety is critical for attracting new businesses and visitors.
Katie Wilson, co-founder and executive director of the Transit Riders Union, focuses on workers’ rights and has led campaigns to raise the minimum wage and strengthen rent protections throughout multiple cities in the region.
Joe Mallahan positions himself on police reform, housing affordability, and homelessness services, promising to collaborate with communities to reform police culture and enhance oversight.
Meanwhile, Armstrong expresses a commitment to being their authentic self in campaigning, prioritizing housing, safety, workers’ rights, and quality childcare.
In another significant contest, the race for King County executive gains attention with several prominent candidates, including current council members.
This election will fill the vacancy left by Dow Constantine, who stepped down to become Sound Transit’s CEO.
Democrat Claudia Balducci, serving on the King County Council since 2015 and a former Bellevue mayor, advocates for expanding affordable housing, championing public safety, and delivering light rail services to the Eastside.
Balducci emphasizes her commitment to reproductive health rights, immigrant rights, and preserving environmental protections in her campaign.
Girmay Zahilay, also a Democrat and King County Council member since 2019, has a background in the Obama administration and nonprofit work.
Zahilay’s campaign priorities include expanding affordable housing, strengthening behavioral health services, enhancing public safety, and bolstering support for small businesses and public transit.
The election for King County Assessor will also see John Wilson, who, despite withdrawing due to legal issues, remains on the ballot.
Meanwhile, Tacoma’s mayoral race features John Hines, a current Tacoma City Council member and former deputy mayor, who has focused on expanding shelters, housing, public safety, and infrastructure improvements throughout his tenure.
In Everett, incumbent Cassie Franklin seeks a third term as mayor, facing competition from former City Councilmember Scott Murphy, Rich Ryan, and Janice Green.
Murphy, who served on the city council from 2013 to 2021, identifies public safety as a top priority and aims to restore fiscal discipline.
Janice Green holds positions on several boards and committees and emphasizes public safety, economic opportunity, affordable housing, and support for seniors and working families in her campaign.
As voters prepare for the August primary, the outcomes will determine the two top vote-getters from each race who will advance to the November general election.
The races in Seattle, King County, Tacoma, and Everett are set to shape the future of local governance in Washington state.
The diverse range of candidates reflects varied priorities, from housing and public safety to workers’ rights and environmental protection, promising an engaging election season ahead.
image source from：king5
