Monday

07-28-2025 Vol 2035

Seattle’s Upcoming Elections: A Snapshot of Key Races and Propositions

As Seattle prepares for its upcoming elections, several critical races and propositions are making headlines. The recent collaboration between Rinck and Mayor Harrell emphasizes a potential overhaul of Seattle’s business and occupation tax, targeting large companies to bolster the city’s budget amid anticipated federal cuts from President Donald Trump.

City Council President Sara Nelson is seeking reelection for her citywide seat, having raised $422,000 thus far. While her moderate policies, such as approving raises for police officers and opposing a local capital gains tax on wealthy residents, have drawn criticism from the progressive left, they could also indicate if city voters favor centrist governance moving forward.

Dionne Foster, her closest competitor with $271,000 in campaign funds, leads the advocacy group Progress Alliance of Washington. Foster has shown support for a local wealth tax and pushed for alternatives to traditional policing, reflecting a more progressive stance on fiscal and public safety issues.

In a unique initiative, Seattle Prop. 1, the Democracy Vouchers levy, provides local voters with $100 vouchers to donate to candidates, aiming to diversify campaign financing. Despite its intentions, oversight reveals that participation dipped below 5% in 2023, raising concerns about its overall efficacy in reducing the influence of large donors.

Additionally, King County voters face Proposition 1, which seeks to renew a property tax for park improvements, youth programs, and recreational facilities. The current levy is set to expire, and the voters will decide whether to extend it until 2031, with projected revenue reaching $1.8 billion over the six years.

In Seattle’s educational landscape, the election for the School Board District 2 seat is heating up despite no current plans for school closures. Incumbent Sarah Clark, appointed earlier this year, brands herself as an anti-closure advocate while promoting program expansion. Her challengers include Kathleen Smith, who is leading in fundraising and endorsements, and is calling for innovative solutions to the district’s financial woes.

District 4 sees incumbent Joe Mizrahi pitted against Lisa Marie Rivera, as both focus on creating a sustainable budget. Mizrahi has opposed school closures and called for long-term financial strategies, while Rivera advocates for mixed-use school spaces to generate significant revenue and maintain educational services.

Five candidates are vying for the District 5 seat following Michelle Sarju’s decision to step down. Vivian Song, a finance professional and former school board member, leads in contributions and aims to reform the budgeting process. Another contender, Janis White, emphasizes her legal expertise and commitment to special education, focusing on fiscal accountability for the board.

Shifting to Snohomish County, Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin faces scrutiny for her strict policies on homelessness, which have resulted in a dramatic increase in the homeless population. Challengers, including former Everett Councilmember Scott Murphy and former Snohomish County NAACP chair Janice Greene, are seeking to capitalize on dissatisfaction with Franklin’s reign.

Pierce County is witnessing a transformative period within Tacoma’s leadership, with multiple city council seats and the mayoral position open for reelection. City Councilmember John Hines, endorsed by numerous unions, and Anders Ibsen, backed by progressive activists, are likely to emerge from a crowded primary.

In the state Legislature, competitive races emerge as a result of higher-than-usual turnover. The 5th Legislative District becomes a focal point, as candidates battle for representation in a district tending towards Democratic values while facing significant Republican challenges.

In the 33rd Legislative District, incumbent Edwin Obras competes against Burien Mayor Kevin Schilling, highlighting the divergence in Democratic policies. The unfolding electoral landscape in Washington not only reflects changes in local governance but also sets the stage for potential shifts in policy and party dynamics.

As voters prepare to cast their ballots, the stakes remain high, with various measures and candidates reflecting broader societal concerns around taxation, public safety, education, and homelessness.

image source from:kuow

Benjamin Clarke