It might not be a BIG election year, but there are still some very important issues on the ballot, including how future elections might look. We’ve rounded up our election coverage on local and state candidates and issues. So sit back, watch the candidates speak for themselves, and start filling out that ballot!
First, for those interested in a guided tour through your Voter Pamphlet, here’s our King County and City of Seattle Video Voters’ Guide (VVG for short!) compilations. Listen to the candidates pitch their platform in a two-minute, unedited statement. Follow along with your paper pamphlet if that’s your style. This edition of the VVG walks you through King County’s Charter Amendment 1, Proposition 1, and candidates for Prosecuting Attorney. Then, Seattle residents can hear from proponents of the two options in Seattle’s Proposition 1A/1B, as well as candidates for Municipal Court Judge positions 3 and 7.
We’ve also broken down the longer guide if you’re just stuck on one race or issue. Here are the links to fast-track you to the information you need:
- King County, Charter Amendment No. 1 (Even-numbered election years for certain county offices)
- King County, Proposition 1 (Conservation Futures Levy)
- King County, Prosecuting Attorney
- City of Seattle, Proposition Nos. 1A & 1B
- City of Seattle, Municipal Court Judge position no. 3
- City of Seattle, Municipal Court Judge position no. 7
But wait, there’s more! City Inside/Out, Seattle Channel’s weekly public affairs program, invited candidates, supporters, and opponents into the studio to debate.
King County, Proposition 1 (Conservation Futures Levy)
Voters must decide whether to double King County Conservation Futures property tax. Supporters say the levy hasn’t kept up with rising home values with the state’s 1% cap on property taxes. Opponents argue homeowners are already overburdened. Watch this conservation conversation before you cast your vote!
City of Seattle Proposition Nos. 1A and 1B
Seattle’s voting system could get a shakeup this November, but if and how is up to you! Proposition 1 is a two-part question that asks if we should change how the city votes, and if so, should it be to ranked-choice or approval voting? This video should help you know which way to vote on this…voting vote. Say that ten times fast.
And If you’re still unsure how ranked-choice and approval voting differ, we have this TikTok explainer video that uses something we can all relate to this time of year.
Secretary of State
Washington’s Secretary of State appointee Steve Hobbs is in a tight race against Pierce County Auditor Julie Anderson to become the state’s next elections chief, as partisanship and election security concerns are at an all-time high.
King County, Prosecuting Attorney
King County Prosecutor Dan Satterberg is retiring after four terms. Now, voters need to decide if the open seat should go to his chief of staff, Leesa Manion, or Federal Way’s mayor, Jim Ferrell.
Legislative District 34, State Representative Pos. 1
In the 34th district, voters will choose between affordable housing advocate Emily Alvarado and Leah Griffin, a school librarian who has helped to create state and federal policies on sexual assault. The 34th district includes Pioneer Square, West Seattle, and Vashon Island.
Legislative District 37, State Representative Pos. 2
Chipalo Street, a tech advisor and small business owner, and Emijah Smith, a community organizer and PTSA president – both first-time candidates – want to represent Seattle’s 37th legislative district. The 37th district represents southeast Seattle, stretching from the Chinatown-International and Central Districts, through Columbia City and Rainier Valley, to Renton.
Legislative District 46, State Representative Pos. 2
Disability rights advocate Darya Farivar and pediatrician Dr. Lelach Rave explain why they think they’re the best person to represent the 46th legislative district, which represents northeast Seattle.
You made it! Just a few more steps to make your vote count:
✔️ Sign and seal your ballot! Ballots must be postmarked by or returned to a ballot drop box by 8 p.m. on Nov. 8. Find a ballot drop box here and plan ahead to avoid lines.
✔️ Already voted? You can track your ballot online to see if it has been received and accepted.
✔️ Not registered or need to update your voter information? In King County, you can register to vote online or by mail through Oct. 31 or in person through Nov. 8.
Need something else? Check out the King County Elections website for more resources or assistance with anything and everything elections-related.
