"2023 may be an "off year" for federal races, but it's a big year for city, county, and school board elections that are often the positions via which women and non-binary people enter politics.
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SHORTCUT TO ENDORSEMENTS BY POSITION
CITY POSITIONS |
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General Election Candidate Barb Tolbert has been Mayor for the City of Arlington since 2012. In that time, she has provided leadership through financial crisis and the natural disaster of the 530 Mudslide, and the recent pandemic. While in office Barb has expanded opportunities for Arlington residents in job opportunities, quality of life and public safety, while rebuilding the city’s finances to invest in our future. Barb's energy for enhancing quality of life for Arlington citizens is endless. Improvements and enhancements have been made in Social Services, educational opportunities, safety and equity. Barbs strong business background and natural ability to build partnerships has served Arlington well. Actively involved with many of Snohomish County and Arlington’s organizations, Barb has served in board positions with: WA State Aviation Advisory , Arlington Chamber of Commerce, The CV Hospital Foundation, Arlington Family Resource Center and United Way. Currently a Trustee withEASC and YMCA. |
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Cheryl Rakes |
General Election Candidate Cheryl Rakes was raised in Auburn, Washington where she loves serving her city. Before she became a councilmember, she was the Executive Director for Downtown Auburn Cooperative, which she still works there. Her goals are to revitalize the downtown area and work with all the small businesses. She was also a medical assistant at a women's clinic in Tacoma Washington before getting into politics and worked with women in all sorts of life. It was there that she got the compassion for women's rights and what women wanted for their own lives. |
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Hanan Amer |
General Election Candidate Hanan Amer, a dynamic individual committed to community service, was born in Oklahoma and raised in Benghazi, Libya. Since moving to Auburn in 2008, she has built a successful career and actively engaged with various organizations. With a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry from Benghazi University, Hanan dedicated herself to volunteering at local food bank, museum and libraries. Her passion for helping others extended to the Girl Scouts of Western Washington, where she served for over three decades and earned prestigious awards. Hanan also contributed to the community as an income tax preparer, assisting seniors and low-income individuals through United Way. In 2022, she was appointed to the City of Auburn Planning Commission. Hanan's active involvement as a Boy Scout Volunteer and archery instructor for the Girl Scouts showcases her dedication to empowering others. Her remarkable commitment to volunteerism continues to leave leave a lasting impact on the lives of those she serves. |
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Kirsten Hytopoulos |
General Election Candidate After earning degrees in Political Science and Law, Kirsten worked as a criminal prosecutor and a college instructor before taking time off to focus on raising her three young children and to work on local political issues. She served four years on the Bainbridge Island City Council between 2010-2014, during which time she returned to the practice of law, following her own divorce. Kirsten’s law practice focuses on mediation and collaborative divorce, a process which equalizes the playing field between divorcing spouses and ensures that the needs of lower earning spouses – disproportionately women – are fully considered and addressed. In 2019, Kirsten was elected again to city council with her primary issues including building an inclusive and resilient community and addressing affordable housing, having experienced housing insecurity herself and having witnessed it too frequently through the experiences of her clients. |
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Brenda Fantroy-Johnson |
General Election Candidate Brenda Fantroy-Johnson was elected to the Bainbridge City Council in November 2021 and is currently serving as Mayor. She believes that the voice of every Bainbridge Islander, be they residents, visitors, or employees, has value. During her 14 years on Bainbridge Island, Fantroy-Johnson has been active in local government. Brenda Fantroy-Johnson is strongly committed to the work of racial equity, affordable housing, and sustainable transportation. Fantroy-Johnson moved to Bainbridge Island in 2006.She has a Master of Business Administration from Spring Arbor University, and a Bachelor of Arts in computer science from Davenport University, where she graduated with the highest distinction. She is certified in Information Security, Cloud Alliance Security, Information Privacy, and Six Sigma and holds many other industry certifications.Fantroy-Johnson lives with her husband, Harvey, their Golden Retriever, Molly. She has five children and four grandchildren.She is an author of "Imagine Me" |
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Leslie Schneider |
General Election Candidate Leslie Schneider has served on the Bainbridge Island city council since May 1, 2018. A graduate of UCLA (BA Communications), Leslie has worked on promoting sustainability and local economy starting in 1992 volunteering for Sustainable Seattle and the Business Alliance for Local Living Economy. She was a co-founder of Jackson Place Cohousing, providing leadership for the construction of 27 homes and common spaces. She moved to Bainbridge Island in 2009, and in 2011 she co-founded OfficeXpats, a coworking shared office and collaborative hub for independent professionals. OfficeXpats won the 2014 Chamber of Commerce small business of the year award. Leslie has served on the boards of Sustainable Bainbridge and the Kitsap Regional Library Foundation. In the 2017 election, she co-sponsored a fundraising event for 23rd district candidate Sherry Appleton. If elected, she will continue working for equity, affordable housing, sustainable transportation, and climate responsibility/resiliency. |
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Andrea Chymiy |
General Election Candidate Andrea Chymiy grew up in Seattle, WA. She has a B.S. in Molecular Biology from Vanderbilt University, and an MD and MPH from Tulane University. Andrea is a family medicine physician and a co-founder of women-owned Pacifica Medicine & Wellness. She is the co-founder of the Bainbridge Island Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) and a Team Lead for Bainbridge Prepares. As a woman in medicine Andrea has sought throughout her career to expand opportunities for women interested in entering the medical field. She and her business partner have run their expanding wellness-focused medical practice in Kitsap County since 2016, with a focus on women's healthcare. Andrea has served on the Bainbridge Island Fire Commission since 2021. As an elected official Andrea brings a working woman's perspective to fire department policymaking. |
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Janice Zahn |
General Election Candidate Janice Zahn is a mom, an immigrant and an engineer. She is a public servant (Director of Engineering at the Port of Seattle) who is a strong champion for marginalized communities, women's rights and addressing systemic inequities. She is running for her third term on the Bellevue City Council with a platform of affordable housing (housing choices), multi-modal transportation options and sustainability. She is a bridge builder who actively engages with the broad community (especially those who don't have a seat at the table), has built strong relationships at the local, state and national levels, to develop solutions that work, get at the root causes of our societal challenges and collaborate with partners for success. She believes that the discrimination and suppression of women's voices must be addressed, whether it is accessible and affordable housing, childcare or upskilling jobskills. We must look at all our city policies to first understand and then address inequities. |
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Kim Lund |
General Election Candidate Kim grew up in a union-supported, middle-class Bellingham home and feels fortunate to be raising her children in the community she loves. She was the first in her family to go to college, earning a degree in chemical engineering from the University of Washington. She is a problem solver by nature. She brings a pragmatic, human-centered, and thoughtful approach to executive leadership. Her experiences – as a civically-engaged community member on local non-profit boards, a Whatcom County planning commissioner, a team leader at a Fortune 50 company, and as a local non-profit executive – give her a unique combination of skills to lead. As mayor, she will work to protect and nurture what makes Bellingham special while building a future that is safe, stable, and where everyone thrives. |
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General Election Candidate Liz Darrow is a Legislative Advocate with Community to Community Development. She sits on the Immigration Advisory Board with the City of Bellingham, is the Democratic Precinct Committee Officer for precinct 238, and serves as the co-chair of the Lettered Streets Neighborhood Association. Liz is passionate about participatory democracy and equitable processes for involvement in civic decision making spaces. When elected, liz will work hard for dignified policy that addresses barriers for women, BIPOC, trans people, and people without language access privilege. This means first and foremost trusting impacted communities about their needs and experiences, and then implementing budgets and policies that honor that commitment. |
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Maya Morales (she/they) envisions communities, cities, and states in which everyone belongs. She's educated youth on women's art & empowerment; advocated for women's employment rights; organized rallies, festivals and marches; fought to protect access to abortion and gender-affirming care; supported other women, LGBTQ+, and people of color into education and employment opportunities; joined into advocacy for immigrants' rights, and supported workers. Maya taught TESOL and Academic Skills courses abroad for a few years. In 2021, Maya joined a local ballot committee to put a slate of four progressive initiatives on the local ballot to protect workers, renters, and BIPOC community members. In 2022, she founded WA People's Privacy, advocated fiercely in 2023 for a strong My Health My Data Act, and witnessed its passage into law! They hold a MA in Teaching, focused on TESOL, from SIT Graduate Institute, and BAs in Art & Women's Studies, with a concentration in Race, Class, and Ethnicity. |
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Lisa Anderson |
General Election Candidate Lisa Anderson is currently a Bellingham City Councilor. Her first term was marked by an international pandemic, economic uncertainty, and social unrest. Lisa embraced innovation to address a public health crisis, supporting businesses, workforce stabilization, and addressing housing and food insecurity. With good leadership, Bellingham increased housing, services for vulnerable residents, and buisness are rebounding. Lisa experienced homelessness as a single mom and worked her way through community college to earning a M.Ed. She knows the challenges and opportunities for women. Access to education is a core value. Lisa is a proud AFSCME union member at Whatcom Community College where she assists students to reach their educational goals. She is on the Board of Directors for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services for Whatcom County. Lisa will continue to be a strong leader for smart growth, the environment, living wage jobs, and protecting the health and safety of her community. |
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General Election Candidate Kristiana de Leon, a nearly lifelong resident of South King County, returned to where she grew up after graduating with honors from Pacific Lutheran University to be part of the work to ensure that new neighbors feel just as welcome as she did, in an area continuing to grow and diversify. She returned to PLU for her Master of Arts in Education to serve as a secondary ELL and Language Arts Teacher. After seven years in public education, she successfully ran for Black Diamond City Council and worked a retail job that could better balance with her council work. In her four years, in addition to work on traffic safety, housing, expanding fire services, and elevating open green spaces in parks programs, she has advanced language and policies on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and promoted youth mental health. She serves on Enumclaw Youth Empowered and the Sound Cities Association's Law, Safety, and Justice Committee, is a board member of the Association for Secular Elected Officials. |
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General Election Candidate Amanda is a lifelong Bothellite with a passion for community. She has a background in software engineering and technical program management and currently works as a Technical Account Manager. Prior to being appointed to the Bothell City Council in 2022, she served on the board of Bothellites for People-Oriented Places, as a city Planning Commissioner, and as the Vice Chair of the First District Democrats. Amanda has been an advocate for multimodal transportation and zoning reform, encouraging Bothell to remember those with different abilities and income levels as it faces exponential growth. Amanda wants to help Bothell continue to foster it's small-town "feel" but ensure it reaches across our entire community, no matter where one was born, raised, who they love, what their abilities are, or what they believe. Bothell can grow sustainably and thoughtfully while still preserving our tradition of caring for and welcoming all of our neighbors.v |
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Jane Rebelowski |
General Election Candidate Ms. Rebelowski is a graduate of East Lyme High School in Connecticut and a certificate holder from UCLA in Public Works Inspection. She has worked as an inspector at City of Upland, CA, CH2MHill Jefferson County, WA, the City of Bellevue, the City of Bremerton and the Seattle Department of Transportation. She excels at listening to many points of view prior to finalizing her decisions on matters of importance. Jane attends all City Council meetings and Council Study Sessions. She is very involved with reviewing Public Works projects offering her insight of how a project can be improved within available funding. Her advocacy for those with physical disabilities is apparent by being a strong voice on the City’s ADA committee. Jane will work to promote a more diverse workforce at the City of Bremerton by supporting the Race Equity Commission and working with fellow elected officials to create an internship program for non represented women and minorities in our community. |
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General Election Candidate Cydney Moore is a mother, activist, and elected representative with a long history of service to her community. Her background includes over a decade of experience in nonprofit leadership, and years of experience as a small business owner, a journalist covering politics, and as an advocate for social justice issues including housing for all, fair wages, women's rights, LGBTQIA2S+ rights, immigrant rights, and more. She has worked on policy issues at the city, county, and state level, and currently holds office as a Burien City Councilmember. Cydney also serves on the board of 3 nonprofits (the Burien Arts Association, Tukwila Pantry food bank, and the Multi Service Center), and is on several regional boards and committees, including the Domestic Violence Initiative Regional Task Force. Her other experience includes acting as a Lead Organizer for ACLU Burien People Power, and volunteering for organizations like the Burien Severe Weather Shelter and Burien C.A.R.E.S. Animal Shelter. |
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Linda Akey |
General Election Candidate Linda Akey holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Public Administration. She has worked in the childcare, telecommunications, banking, and non-profit industries while volunteering for nonprofits, local commissions, and political campaigns. She started her own nonprofit consulting company in 2008, where she helps nonprofit organizations start-ups by creating strategic plans, conducting board training, completing state and IRS filings, and budgeting. Linda has worked on national, state, and local campaigns, including support of woman candidates. Her work in Economic Development has supported women in their work in the community. As an elected official, Linda will continue to advocate for women's success in their work at home and in business. |
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Patricia Hudson |
General Election Candidate My name is Patricia Hudson and I am a 25+ HR professional who after the completion of her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Masters in Management utilized both work professional experience to create positive employee experiences by writing policies and procedures meant to enhance the employee experience in all functions of HR. My work experience spans all areas of HR ( e.g., compensation, employee relations, benefits, talent acquisition, HRIS, Training and development, policy, risk management and rewards and recognition. After completing my master’s degree, I taught college courses for 12 years to mentor women and illustrate how women and women of color can advocate for women and women’s issues. I have developed and advocated in my professional career for women to be paid and paid equitably. While completing my master’s degree, my husband died leaving me to raise our 2 sons alone, for the next 13 years I struggled to be provide a home and model behavior for my sons. |
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Krystal Marx |
General Election Candidate Krystal Marx (she/they) is a disabled woman, a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, the mother of three cisgender children and one transgender teenage, caregiver to her husband (a disabled Army combat veteran), and former Burien City Councilmember (2018 - 2021) and Deputy Mayor (2019 - 2021). Professionally, she is the Vice President of Business Operations for the Seattle Seawolves major league rugby team, and has over 15 years of experience in nonprofit management after spending the last three years as the first Executive Director of Seattle Pride. Having spent six months living in a car with her mother when she was just eight years old, Krystal knows the impact of not having what is needed to have a safe, successful childhood - experience she brings with her as an advocate for quality childcare, affordable housing, public safety reform, and transportation options for working families. She is a committed champion of, and partner to, women and nonbinary individuals. |
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Adair Hawkins |
General Election Candidate I am passionate about walkability, mobility and safety. I work in healthcare as a Dental Hygienist. My husband, who is a firefighter, and I are raising four kids. Having a large family and parents who do not have flexible jobs, I see the need to improve rural equity. I have worked hard on the Snoqualmie Valley Transportation Committe to bring mobility to all. Our citizens with disabilities, language barriers, and LGBTQ have never been included in our town's conversation. As the only woman on the Carnation City Council, I will continue to actively include disenfranchised groups. Together, we can create a more inclusive, equitable, and affordable community. |
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Jessica Merizan |
General Election Candidate Jessica Merizan is an anthropologist whose personal philosophy is "persist in the pursuit of understanding, acceptance, and delight". With a Bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley and Master's from University College London, she became a community management thought leader at Electronic Arts & Legendary Entertainment. During that time, she also founded her own new media business. Seven years ago, Jessica joined Microsoft as an Executive Producer. Passionate about civic duty so her small rural town of 2,000 people can be a more inclusive place to raise her family, she got involved in city issues after discovering there was no sidewalk connecting her neighborhood to the town and the local "park" was an empty lot. She since became HOA President, Co-Chair of the Parks & Planning Board, and Marketing/Parade Co-Chair for Carnation's 4th of July Committee. Jessica approaches problems strategically and creatively, making people feel seen and heard to collectively make impact for the community. |
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Chris Eck |
General Election Candidate Chris Eck attended the University of Washington, receiving a B.A. in History. She has also attended leadership cohorts including Leadership Snohomish County. A working mom and wife, Chris's career began in health care/insurance team operations management, where she earned progressively higher promotions before leaping into non-profits to work at Cocoon House in human resources. Strongly committed to equity and serving our community, Chris is the Deputy COO at VOA Western WA and leads programs whose staff provide services to thousands of people in the region. Chris has been a community leader and volunteer, and is presently a County Planning Commissioner and City Tree Board member. Chris ran for Lynnwood City Council as well as for an appointment to Snohomish County Council. Chris is now a candidate for Edmonds City Council Position 1 and is dedicated to using her voice and vote to create and improve policies, laws, and the quality of life for women and marginalized community members. |
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Susan Paine |
General Election Candidate Councilmember Susan Paine is running to retain her position on Edmonds City Council. Paine brings over 30 years of municipal and nonprofit experience to the position. Her accomplishments include building the Human Services program at the start of the pandemic, supporting economic policies to ensure the success for individuals, families and small businesses. She got her BA from the Univ of Washington, and later received a Master’s in Public Administration from Seattle U. Susan had a successful career working in the public and non-profit sectors in various capacities. Her work included advocating for victims of domestic violence through program development for courts and law enforcement, worked closely with at-risk youth, and worked to bring racial and gender equity with her work at the city of Seattle. Paine’s commitment and her campaign includes inclusive outreach and engagement to all of Edmonds - disrupting how some neighborhoods feel left out of decision-making by city government. |
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Judith Martinez |
General Election Candidate Judith Martinez a mother, a wife, a survivor, an immigrant, and an advocate for the voiceless. She immigrated to the United States when she was only 2 years old. She learned at a very young age that women need to be stronger and braver than men. She learned to stand up for herself and others. She constantly advocated for other girls in school. Especially those times when they were always told, "boys will be boys". Judith is a devoted advocate and donor of Planned Parenthood and has attended Women's Rights protests. Once elected she will continue to fight for women and help those women who are afraid to reach out for help due to their legal status. |
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Susan Honda |
General Election Candidate Attended UPS, TG Hospital School of Nursing, Advanced Certificate of Municipal Leadership. Retired RN. Community volunteer, City Council Member, Deputy Mayor. As Deputy Mayor, Susan serves Federal Way with integrity, experience, common sense, vision, compassion and proven leadership. A resident of Federal Way for 43 years, she has worked to improve public safety, address transportation, land use issues, support business and economic development. Susan supports a balanced budget that addresses the needs of the city and citizens. She works for the youth, families, and seniors in our community to bring services, programs and support to all. Susan serves on several Regional, State and National Boards and Committees. She has the experience and relationships with local, county, state and national leaders to advocate for Federal Way on important regional issues. She is the State Co Director for the NFWL and is past president of Soroptimists Club. |
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General Election Candidate Festa grew up in South Seattle (Boulevard Park}. She graduated from North Seattle Community College with an Associates of Arts Degree. Her father was a Local 32 Union Plumber and her mother owned a hair salon. For 21 years, Festa has helped people with intellectual/developmental disabilities live successfully in their community through her work for the King County Department of Community and Human Services as a Housing Coordinator. Current Volunteer work includes: Chair of Human Services Commission for the City of Federal Way, Chair and founding member of the Native American Leadership Council, Current President of Soroptimist International of Federal Way, Chief’s Call for Federal Way, Community Representative for the Federal Way Police Department, and Board Member of FUSION: Housing in Need. |
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General Election Candidate A Pacific Northwesterner by birth and disposition, Abby Drivdahl has lived in Washington DC, Oregon, Japan, and California, before returning to her roots in the Puget Sound. She attended Georgetown University for her undergraduate degree and University of Oregon for to earn an MA in history. She has worked in Japan and the USA, and worked with programs with the United Nations for human rights, focusing on developing programs for young girls in areas of the world where their rights are vulnerable, and also done work with the Center for Non-Proliferation Studies doing research on nuclear safety. By day she teaches Global Politics and history to unsuspecting teenagers, and by night she writes books that center on empowering women and travels to far-flung places. She hopes to use her position in City Council to continue advocate for women's rights, especially the underprivileged. She loves to be with animals, read, play sports, and drink more London Fogs than is likely good for her. |
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General Election Candidate Mary Barber is a city council member in Gig Harbor running for election to continue making her community an amazing place to live, work, play and raise a family. Mary is a life-long volunteer who supports data-based decision making which she achieves by first by looking at the long-term vision, understanding the problem, listening to (and hearing) all stakeholders before collaborating to find a solution. She supports the rights of all people to live the best possible life they can in a way they choose. A strategic communications and public relations counselor, Mary has worked and lived in Oregon, Washington, California, Colorado and Alaska where she’s helped numerous organizations find solutions to their issues. She is married to a retired Air Force colonel and has two adult children. In her spare time, Mary enjoys weaving and gardening. |
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General Election Candidate Councilmember Victoria Hunt is running for reelection to the Issaquah City Council. Victoria was first appointed in 2018, and was elected again in 2019. She is passionate about climate action, environmental stewardship, and protecting our natural environment. Victoria has a PhD in ecology from University of Illinois and previously worked as affiliate faculty in the Urban Design and Planning Department of University of Washington. She is currently the Director of Data Solutions for Crosswalk Labs, providing green house gas emissions data to cities and local government so that they can take meaningful climate action. Victoria believes in leading by example and supports women by sharing her experience and encouraging civic engagement. Victoria offers the important perspective of a professional woman, mother, and wife in a leadership role raising two small children, ages 5 and 8 years old. |
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General Election Candidate Melanie O'Cain was elected to Kenmore City Council in 2019. She is a graduate of the University of Washington with over 20 years experience working for the Port of Seattle where she was the inaugural chair for the Women's Initiative Network. During the second year of her first term she was appointed Deputy Mayor because of her ability to listen to her community and work with her fellow councilmembers as a visionary voice in the advancement and implementation of environmental stewardship, climate action, equity, diversity and inclusion, and affordability within the City of Kenmore. She is a strong advocate for women's issues, and on June 27, immediately following the Supreme Court Dobbs decision overturning Roe v. Wade, Melanie drafted and presented the the Kenmore City Council with Resolution 22-387 in support of codifying comprehensive reproductive healthcare, including abortion, as well as marriage equality in the Washington State and U.S. Constitutions which was unanimously passed. |
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Valerie Sasson |
General Election Candidate Valerie Sasson is a graduate of Brown University and the Seattle Midwifery School. She has been active in bringing issues of sexual assault and reproductive rights for over three decades. As a licensed midwife, free-standing birth center owner, midwifery educator and policy maker, she has dedicated her professional life to the service of reproductive choices for childbearing people and their families. Ms. Sasson intends to continue rigorously applying the overlapping lenses of social equity and environmental stewardship to evidence-based decision making in order to advance best practices in local governance. |
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Corina Pfeil |
General Election Candidate Corina Pfeil is the first LGBTQ member elected to the Kenmore Council. She holds a Behavioral and Social Health Services, Associates of Applied Sciences Degree, currently pursuing a Public Health Degree in Community Health & Epidemiology. She’s an award-winning legislative advocate, community leader, and civil rights activist on reproductive health equity. She’s the Vice Chair of the King County Hazardous Waste MCC Board and serves on other boards and committees. During her term, she connected grants to businesses, ensuring economic resilience. Delivered affordable housing: ADUs; 100 new deeply affordable units and renters protections. Adopted a DEIA policy, community court, and safe place program. Delivered infrastructure: sidewalks, bike lanes, and school zones with flashing crosswalks. On Environment: adopted a new tree canopy ordinance; climate action plan with housing & human services; newly restored shoreline and habitat restoration; and completed the Walkways & Waterways Project. |
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Kelli Curtis |
General Election Candidate Kelli Curtis has served on the Kirkland City Council for over four years. She began her city service on the Park Board in 2015 during which time she also served as a member of the Kirkland Housing Advisory Group. As a councilmember, she chairs both Kirkland’s Legislative Workgroup and the Parks Funding Exploratory Committee. Her regional appointments include the Sound Cities Association (SCA) Caucus Chair of the King County Growth Management Planning Council, member of the King Conservation District Advisory Committee, WIRA-8, and SCA Public Issues Committee. Curtis received an AWC Certificate of Municipal Leadership in 2021. Curtis worked for most of her career in the technology industry before shifting gears to become a Certified Professional Horticulturist and launching her garden design firm. She holds a BA in Communication and Media Studies from the University of Washington. She is a proud mom of two adult children and board member of Homeward Pet Adoption Center. |
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Amy Falcone |
General Election Candidate Amy Falcone was first elected to Kirkland City Council in 2019, after serving as founding member and Co-Chair of Kirkland’s Human Services Commission. She current serves on Kirkland’s coordinating committee with Lake Washington School District (LWSD) and on the city's Transportation Work Group. Regionally, she serves on the Sound Cities Association (SCA) Board, as SCA Caucus Chair of the King County Affordable Housing Committee, on the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Cabinets of both SCA and Association of Washington Cities (AWC), and as Chair of Eastside Human Services Forum Board. Councilmember Falcone received a Certificate of Municipal Leadership from AWC in 2021. She holds an MA in Sociology and a BA in Biology from Temple University in Philadelphia, where she also taught undergraduate statistics. She spent over a decade in social science research. Amy is a proud mom to three children in LWSD, where she is an active volunteer and PTA leader. |
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Linda Tracy |
General Election Candidate Before moving to La Center, in 2000, I was a business owner, a professional singer, a Cruise Director, a mom, a grandmother and a wife, I'm still some of those things. Living in La Center, since those early days, I've experienced lots of changes. When I was first elected, in 2003, we didn't have 1000 registered voters, the hospital building from the 1800's became the library, making way for the Chevron Marketplace. The cardrooms supported the City's budget before the Cowlitz Tribe came in, and are getting up to speed since the Pandemic. The purchase and upgrade to the Waste Water Treatment Plant, and the dedication of Sternwheeler Park & Amphitheater, all things I've have had direct involvement with. My husband, of 46 years, and an Advertising & Marketing Consultant, has always said, "we're the sum total of our experience" and I offer a lot of it. I love La Center and taking part in community endeavors and projects, and I know I would make an excellent and involved Council member. |
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Lorri Bodi |
General Election Candidate Lorri Bodi is an environmental lawyer with years of experience in conservation, and a current Lake Forest Park City Council member. She graduated from college and law school with honors, working her way through as a waitress, office assistant, and law clerk. She started out as a lawyer for EPA and NOAA, then left to establish the NW office of American Rivers, where a majority of staff and volunteers were women. Lorri’s ability to work with all kinds of people led to her becoming Executive VP for Environment at Bonneville Power, where roughly half her staff were women and many were tribal members. As a Councilmember, she has been effective in supporting women and minority employees and policies for diversity, equity, and inclusion -- and by listening and bringing together groups of people with divergent views. She would like to build on this experience if re-elected to represent Lake Forest Park. |
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Ellyn Saunders |
General Election Candidate As a city council member, I will use my experience and passion from my job as a mom and nurse, to help build effective regional partnerships that benefit our city. I will be a strong voice for safer roads and parks as well as preserve and manage our city’s vision for clean and healthy air and water. I will collaborate with local officials and housing experts to help find affordable solutions so that all citizens can find safe, affordable, and equitable housing. I am running for city council because of my respect, love and passion for my community and the people who live in our amazing city. If elected, I will make it my priority to not only be present within the community, I will also listen to ideas and concerns and be a strong and effective voice, be a representative to the city government and our region and state. |
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Anji Jorstad |
General Election Candidate Anji Jorstad was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest and has worked and lived in Snohomish County for 30 years. She is a licensed social worker and obtained her Masters Degree from Eastern WA University in 2002. Anji currently works for Snohomish County Human Services as a Behavioral Health supervisor where she oversees innovative programs that bring law enforcement, corrections, behavioral health and housing systems together to address gaps for our most vulnerable neighbors throughout Snohomish County. Anji has spent her career as a fierce advocate for our marginalized and under-served community members. Anji and her husband moved to Lake Stevens in 2011, and she was elected to the Lake Stevens City Council in 2019. She is committed to creating opportunities to elevate female, LGBTQIA+, non-white and disabled voices into city government, where diversity, open dialogue, accountability, and transparency are necessary to create a thriving city for every community member. |
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Ruth Kendall |
General Election Candidate Ruth Kendall has a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering. She is retired with over 30 years in the Paper and Software Industries which saw a dramatic increase in women engineers during her tenure. Ruth has served on Longview City Council for the past 4 years. During this time the Longview City Council has had a female majority for the first time in the city’s history. Ruth has been part of the council subcommittee which recommends appointments to city boards and commissions. This subcommittee has worked to appoint diverse representation. Longview City Council also hired Longview’s first woman city manager and has been supportive of other women who have filled key staff positions for the city. |
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Wendy Weiker |
General Election Candidate Wendy Weiker is running for her third term on the Mercer Island City Council where she has been a champion for people, public spaces, and prosperity. She is proud of her work in supporting women in public service - both elected, appointed, and staff - as well as advancing DEI advocacy efforts at the local, regional and state level through her elected board service on the Sound Cities Association and Association of Washington Cities. She believes it's a fundamental human right for all women to have comprehensive access to reproductive health services and opportunities for economic advancement. Wendy appreciates your support in her public service. Thank you for your vote to keep her progressive, pragmatic public service work going. |
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Lucy Madrigal |
General Election Candidate Lucy’s career at Community-to-Community Development has shaped her into the person she is. She is passionate and driven to acquire equitable opportunities. Working with C2C has taught her to fight for basic human rights for all. Mount Vernon deserves strong and healthy families that enrich Skagit County. Lucy is running for city council where she believes her experiences as a born and raised Washingtonian, daughter of farmworkers, and woman of color have prepared her to bring equitable representation within the City Council Board. The key areas of focus are: Safe & Affordable housing, law enforcement issues, gun violence, gang prevention for youth, and increase k-12 education funding. These issues potentially improve through better management of city budgeting and creating a vision of incorporating all underrepresented communities and the highest demographic population, Latinxs. As a council member, she will continue to advocate with integrity and transparency. |
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Sun Burford |
General Election Candidate Sun Burford is a passionate advocate for women's rights, an accomplished educator, and a respected community leader. With a Master's in Education from City University of Seattle and a Leadership Program Certificate from Stanford University, Sun possesses a strong educational foundation and effective leadership skills. For 25 years, she has dedicated herself to teaching in public schools, nurturing students' minds and fostering a supportive learning environment. Beyond the classroom, Sun actively engages in advocacy work and community organizations. She serves on the City Arts Council's Board, promoting inclusive arts, and holds the position of VP of FONL. Sun's political involvement includes dedicated campaign efforts for like-minded candidates. As an elected official, she plans to champion policies promoting gender equality, affordable childcare, and reproductive healthcare access. Sun's extensive experience, education and unwavering dedication position her to make a profound impact. |
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Dani Madrone |
General Election Candidate Dani Madrone is running for a second term on the Olumpia City Council. She arrived in Olympia nearly two decades ago, drawn by the natural beauty of Washington. With a scholarship from the National Science Foundation, she earned a Bachelor of Science and Arts at the Evergreen State College, and later returned to earn a Master of Public Administration. Her career has centered on issues of sustainability and the environment. She works for American Farmland Trust, advocating for policies that protect farmland, advance climate-smart agriculture, and support farmers in the Pacific Northwest. Previously, she worked at the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission to support treaty tribes in implementing their priorities to recover Puget Sound. On the city council, she has focused on issues of affordable housing, urban density, climate change, alternative transportation, and urban agriculture. She lives in the Northwest neighborhood with her teenager, car, and backyard chickens. |
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Kim Lehrman |
General Election Candidate Financial Literacy educator 2023-current. City of Pasco Planning Commissioner 2021-current. Agriculture Educator and FFA Advisor, 2000-2013. Taught Agriculture Science, Horticulture, Floriculture and Welding. Award recipient as Ag. Educator at building, district, and state levels. Started Chiawana High School's FFA Chapter and Floral Shop 2009. Custom swathing, baling, and hay stacking 1984-2002. Kamiakin High graduate. Bachelors Degree, General Agriculture Science with a teaching certificate, Minor in Public Relations Washington State University-Pullman, 2000. Masters in Educational Leadership, Washington State University-Tri-Cities, 2006. Coached youth soccer, volleyball and basketball for over 10 years, PTO member and ATP Parent Chair, Pro-bond and Levy campaign member;Title 1 School Conference representative; PSD Community Builders; iMPACT! Compassion Center mentor. Voter drive volunteer and food drive organizer for our local families. |
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General Election Candidate Jasmine Vasavada has served in Washington state government since 2013, when she and her partner moved to Olympia from Illinois, shortly after the state legally recognized same-sex marriage. She served as non-partisan staff counsel to the House Committees on Government Operations and Elections and on Technology, Energy, and Economic Development. In December 2016, Jasmine left non-partisan legislative staff to serve as an energy policy advisor at the Department of Commerce. She moved to the role of agency legislative director and, then as Director of Government Affairs and Policy, built a well-functioning team that worked on a range of local government, energy, housing, community development, and economic development issues. Jasmine supported many incredible women legislators to help pass legislation to improve access to essential infrastructure and services and is committed to tackling systemic barriers that continue to deprive women of equal voice in the workplace. |
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General Election Candidate Maggie Sanders received her MPA from TESC and has over 20 years working as a public servant in a variety of capacities. Local, Regional and National policy work across sectors working with communities in collaboration with agencies federal/state/college-universities/non-profit/tribal/private and corporate sectors on development and implementation strategies and programs to strengthen community member participation and engagement on climate change and its impact on tribal trust treaty resources, human health security, water and food security/sovereignty. Her work helped to preserve and share with the next ten generations the importance of educating and preserving our traditional ecological knowledge and sharing of culture and history through community engagement and outreach. Commitment to community input and ownership in decision making as active participant’s, providing a voice to their contributions in becoming resilient in taking actions at the community based level. |
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Reba Harris |
General Election Candidate Reba graduated with her master’s in social work and has served the county of Kitsap for 16 years in various community service positions and nonprofit agencies. This includes working as a substance abuse and mental health therapist. Reba testified in front of the House of Representatives concerning SB-5180, and now women of domestic violence and sexual assault are eligible to vacate their past convictions and obtain employment. Her lived experience provides unique insight that facilitates compassion and expands understanding while challenging negative and stigmatizing attitudes in the community. She prides herself on her ability to create a safe and non-judgmental space. She fostered these practices through years of community and relationship-building. Reba’s goal is to empower all and promote social change, and diversity. Reba will advocate encouraging practices that confront occupation segregation and promote workforce diversity and pay equity. |
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General Election Candidate Navarra Carr was first elected to the Port Angeles City Council in 2019. A second year law student at Seattle University School of Law, Navarra will graduate from law school in 2024. Previously Navarra served two years in AmeriCorps and worked in social services and nonprofit administration. Navarra has a commitment to public service and serves on a number of community and city boards, including as Secretary for the North Olympic Development Council, Chair of the City of Port Angeles' Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC), Treasurer of the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center, and is a co-founder and organizer of Port Angeles Pride. The youngest member of city council and the only renter, Navarra has focused on policies that make Port Angeles resilient including addressing housing, health and safety, sustainability and supporting economic opportunities for the community. Navarra strives to build a community that works for everyone and where we can all live, work, and play. |
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Maricela Sanchez |
General Election Candidate Maricela Sanchez is a practicing physician who was born to migrant farmworkers from Mexico and grew up in Prosser, Washington. Prior to attending medical school at Stanford University, she worked as sixth grade teacher with Teach For America in the Los Angeles Unified School district, teaching math, science and dance. She spent a decade in New York City training and working within her chosen field of Anesthesiology before choosing to return to her hometown of Prosser. Now back in Washington, she is an active community volunteer and has served on the boards of Historic Downtown Prosser, Prosser Friends of the Library, the Prosser Planning Commission, Bike Tri-Cities, and Futurewise. She believes that vibrant cities and wonderful public spaces are a great equalizer and cities should aim to serve and protect all residents. |
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Shellie Willis |
General Election Candidate Shellie Willis is the Senior Director of Collective Impact Workforce Central, the public workforce development council serving employers and job seekers in Tacoma and Pierce County. Shellie serves as an advocate for system partners and the community by facilitating the Pierce County Community TaskForce and provides education and training on continuous quality improvement opportunities and increases access to education and employment by intentionally working with local elected officials, community partners and employers to solve complex problems in a structured way to design and create and equitable result. Shellie is also the Founder of “Redefining You Foundation,” a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization that supports and empowers transitioning service women, women veterans, and military spouses redefine their lifestyles and perspectives following military service. She is a 24-year veteran of the US Army and holds a Master’s Degree in Management- Nonprofit Administration from the UMGC. |
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Lauren Adler |
General Election Candidate Lauren Adler is a third-generation Puyallup resident with over 20 years experience in government. Lauren currently serves as Government Relations Director for Elevance Health which offers Medicaid plans in Washington State. Prior to joining Elevance Health, Lauren served as a senior advisor to former Congressman Denny Heck from 2013-2020. In Congressman Heck's office, Lauren assisted and advised the Congressman on local housing, labor, higher education, and women's issues. Lauren also previously worked for the Iron Workers District Council of the Pacific Northwest where she advocated for increasing women in the trades. Raised by a single-mother, Lauren witnessed first-hand the many sacrifices women make as protectors and professionals. Lauren is committed to elevating issues impacting women and non-binary individuals on Puyallup City Council and looks forward to working with stakeholders on these important issues. |
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Angela Birney |
General Election Candidate Angela Birney was elected as Mayor in 2019 and took office in January 2020. During her first term she has worked to create a more equitable and connected community. She has used her first term to support all community members. While running the city, she has also invested her time in many regional boards and commissions including: the SCA Board as Past President, King County Council RPC, PSRC Executive Board, CWA Board as Vice Chair, King County Regional Homelessness Authority, OneRedmond Board, Hopelink, K4C, AWC Large City Advisory Committee and AWC Housing Solutions Group. She served on the Council from 2016-2019 and as Council President from 2018 to 2019. Angela is a Washington native and grew up in Eastern Washington. She moved to Redmond in 1998. Formerly a middle school science teacher, she earned a Master of Education from Heritage University and a Bachelor of Arts in Biology Education from Eastern Washington University. |
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Jessica Forsythe |
General Election Candidate Jessica Forsythe is the owner of a graphic design business that works primarily with clients whose core values align with her own; serving and improving the community. A firm believer in being active at the local level, Jessica has seen first-hand the impact one person can have. In her first term in office she wrote a grant program that help 360+ small and micro businesses, drafted the city’s first Juneteenth proclamation, and secured $2.5M in additional Human Services funding to keep people housed during the pandemic. She was elected by her peers as the City Council President for 22/23. As President she brought forward a letter in response to the Roe v Wade leak by SCOTUS urging the Federal delegation to do everything they could to protect a woman’s right to choose, which was signed by the majority of the Council. Jessica also enjoys testifying at the State Legislature mainly focusing on issues impacting the livability of our region such as Climate Change and Growth Management Act. |
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General Election Candidate Vanessa Kritzer is the Vice President of the Redmond City Council. She is a mom of two kids who has dedicated her career to working for social and environmental progress. She is passionate about gender equity and served for many years on the NWPC-WA board. On City Council, she has worked on issues including childcare, housing affordability, reproductive healthcare access, and supporting families and individuals in need. Vanessa is also the Executive Director of the Washington Association of Land Trusts, which represents over 30 groups across our state that work to protect and steward our lands and waterways. Early in her career, Vanessa spent years working for nonprofits in Washington, DC, including the Latin America Working Group and the League of Conservation Voters. She also worked at Microsoft on smart city and healthcare technology. Vanessa holds MBA and MPA degrees from the University of Washington and served as the student member of UW's Board of Regents during graduate school. |
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Angie Neuvacamina |
General Election Candidate Striving to embody integrity, accountability, bridge building, while choosing love over fear, Angie brings a lens of equity to ensure sustainability. A single mother of an adult daughter and a high school athlete son, having been one of the first women with her specialty training while serving in the US Navy, managing teams of 100+, using the skills she learned as a global corporate program manager to consult BIPOC small business owners, and currently serving her community as a Redmond Planning Commissioner, a Resource Development Committee Member for Boys & Girls Clubs of King County, and a financial services professional serving individuals, families, and business owners as a Queer Chicana of African American heritage- Angie works hard and continues to strive for upward mobility for herself, her family, and all of her communities to ensure that we all have an opportunity to thrive. |
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Kim Monroe Bass |
General Election Candidate Kim Monroe has lived in Washington State, collectively for 15 years, settling in Renton just over 8 years ago. Kim was born in the blue collar, steel mill town of Youngstown Ohio, which she graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Communications from Youngstown State University. Most of her career was spent in radio which is what brought Kim to Seattle in the first place. Kim has always had strong feelings regarding women's issues, primarily in terms of pay, equality and especially now for women's health. It's not okay for a politician to dictate what a woman can do or not do with her body. |
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Valerie O'Halloran |
General Election Candidate I am a retired Senior Finance Systems Analyst with 30+ years of Finance and Accounting experience. I am proud to be Council President in only my fourth year. I was voted President without having been the Pro-Tem. This is a first for Renton and shows yet again that systems are made to be shaken up. I am running for re-election to continue to address our community's challenges and embrace our opportunities. I am proud that we are a majority female Council with four of seven members, one of which is a open queer woman. I thank you for your support! |
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Kim-Khanh Van |
General Election Candidate As a former child refugee from Vietnam, I grew up with certain key values of diligence, work ethics, and not to take anything for granted. My single mother who was a survivor of domestic violence and war had a third grade education, but she has the wisdom from her lived experiences, and her work ethics afforded my siblings and I opportunities that I wouldn’t otherwise had. We grew up poor and in the housing project of South Seattle. When I met the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu in 11th grade at an Emerging Leaders awards ceremony named after him and I was a recipient, I learned that all is possible, and reparations and reconciliation is possible. I have the right experience for Renton. I listen, show up, and lead for ALL communities; including BIPOC, veterans, marginalized, seniors, working families, youths, small businesses, immigrants and refugees, and those with learning differences. I am a PTA mom of two small children, current Renton City Councilmember, an attorney, and more. |
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Allison Ball |
General Election Candidate Allison works hard to incorporate peace and justice into her actions. She is a dedicated advocate for what is right and fair. With an educational background in Social Work. An immigrant, first generation, Allison brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Her professional experience includes working with children, their well-being and safety. As an elected official, Allison is committed to using her platform to amplify women's voices, address affordable housing. Even if that means establishing a housing authority, promote childcare, address mental health and advocate for policies that support work-life balance. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by women, immigrants and mental health issues, Allison is determined to create a more equitable society where all citizens can thrive and achieve their full potential. |
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Uma Coimbature |
General Election Candidate She is happily married and has lived in Sammamish for 20 plus years. She is recently retired after her last position as consultant with Microsoft. She has MBAs in marketing and international business. She completed her undergraduate in Sri Sathya Sai university-woman’s college in India. She received free education & boarding during her undergraduate. She believes in giving back to the community both in USA and India. As a member of Sri Satya Sai spiritual group she supports social causes, including education for girls. Against all odds as an Indian woman, she completed her master’s in USA and has been successful. She decided to run for City of Sammamish Council to help woman in need at the local level. As a council member, majority of work is addressing land use policy, but they also work on providing services to marginalized groups. Besides environmental issues, she will support funding for marginalized groups of women by adopting a fair budget. https://www.voteumasammamish.org/ |
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Roisin O'Farrell |
General Election Candidate Roisin O'Farrell earned an Honors degree in Business management from Trinity College Dublin. Career in retail store management both in Ireland and the US. She served on Sammamish Planning Commission for 3 years, PCO in the 41st LD, neighbourhood coordinator for the Sammamish Issaquah Food Bank Project, member of SEIU 775, special need advocate for her son with autism. Roisin is also a wife and mother of 22 year old son and a 17 year old daughter. She was appointed to Sammamish City Council in July 2022. As an immigrant from Ireland Roisin understands the need for connection and acceptance in a new community. She will work to improve the lives of women in Sammamish by working with Human Services Commission to increase grant funding, improving and expanding our DEIB policy, support county and state initiatives that will improve the lives of women in Washington. |
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Kerry Bosworth |
General Election Candidate Kerry Bosworth is a Washington resident of 10 years and currently works as a Senior Program Manager at Microsoft. The adjective most used to describe her at work, with family and friends and in the community is calm. She brings years of advocating for herself and others to everything she does whether it’s a technical project, neighborhood issue or participating in her local community. Her parent’s singular goal was for her to become a successful and independent woman. The path was hard, but Kerry embraced the challenges and routinely races towards hard problems, not away from them. In her adult life she's listened and learned that not everyone is on the same playing field and as such we must work with intention to ensure women, minorities and any members of marginalized communities have the support to achieve their goals. She didn't realize her journey to engage would lead to running for office but embraces this new challenge with the support of wonderful mentors in her community. |
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Pam Stuart |
General Election Candidate Pam Stuart is a 20-year resident of Sammamish, mother of two, wife, with three fur babies. She holds and BS in Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in economics and has worked in engineering and the tech industry for almost 30 years. Pam has served her community from a young adult volunteering in schools to help ESL students catch up on reading skills to PTA president of the preschool to Chief Umpire for little league to City Councilmember. As a female engineer, it was evident that equality did not exist in our education system nor the workplace and that leading by example, calling out inequities and injustices, and marching, when needed were still and continue to be necessary. Ensuring we correct policies, from land use to access to health care and childcare is critical and through her work on city council, in regional committees (PSRC), and through advocacy with state and federal elected officials, Pam is pushing policies closer to equitable everyday. |
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Maren Costa |
General Election Candidate Maren Costa has more than two decades of experience and holds more than a dozen patents as a Design Leader at tech companies including Adobe, Amazon, and Microsoft. She is an advisor for three climate start ups: Power Bloom Solar, Carbon Zero, and Impact Karma. A passionate advocate for women’s rights, workers’ rights, and ethics in AI, Maren is also a founding member and the current President of Amazon Employees for Climate Justice, a worker-powered organization credited with monumental wins, such as Amazon’s Climate Pledge, and Jeff Bezos’s $10 billion Earth Fund. Maren and her colleague Emily Cunningham were fired from Amazon in April of 2020 for standing up for climate justice and for warehouse workers’ safety during Covid. Amazon’s actions were highly contested—nine US Senators and fourteen US Attorneys General wrote an open letter to Jeff Bezos contesting the firings. She is an LGBTQ mom of a non-traditional, blended family. |
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Tammy Morales |
General Election Candidate Councilmember Tammy J. Morales is trained as a community and regional planner, and has spent her career working with frontline communities on local issues including food security, anti-displacement in low-income neighborhoods and community-centered development. She's been in Seattle for over twenty years, working and advocating for Seattle’s communities of color. Prior to be elected to City Council in 2019, she worked for an affordable housing lender, as a community organizer, and a food justice advocate. Currently, CM Morales chairs the Neighborhoods, Education, Civil Rights, and Culture Committee where she works to help families who are struggling in our city and create an economy that works for everyone. |
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Joy Hollingsworth |
General Election Candidate Joy Hollingsworth is a candidate for the Seattle City Council in District 3. Joy was born and raised in the Central District, a neighborhood her family has called home since the 1940’s. The product of a long line of educators and civil rights leaders, Joy works to build community by establishing relationships based on trust and commitment. Joy played basketball in college at the University of Arizona and earned a Master’s in Education from the University of Washington. Joy currently works at Northwest Harvest and, prior to that, worked as the Operating Officer and Policy Analyst for her family’s business. |
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Ry Armstrong |
RY ARMSTRONG (they/she/he) is a queer advocate for the arts who dreams to create actionable change in the community and save the planet from the defining crisis of our time. Armstrong is an American, genderqueer artist who was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest surrounded by nature and the arts. Their upbringing was full of arts education and ultimately compelled them to follow a career in storytelling. Shortly after finishing a degree in Theatre Arts & Political Science from CWU, they moved from the Emerald City to the Big Apple eventually working on productions Off-Broadway and in regional houses across the country. Armstrong is a proud union member of both AEA & SAG-AFTRA. Complementary to their acting, their focus shifted to sustainability as they earned a graduate degree in International Relations from AU. Armstrong is an active activist with XR and lifetime member of the Sierra Club. ry4seattle.com. |
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Alex Hudson |
General Election Candidate Alex Hudson is a non-profit Executive Director and proven progressive with over a decade of experience delivering major investments and policy wins on transportation, housing, and neighborhood issues. A first-generation college graduate, Alex put herself through Western Washington University, earning a BA in Political Science and minors in Sociology and Economics. Alex was the Executive Director of the First Hill Improvement Association and is the Executive Director of Transportation Choices Coalition, a statewide organization advocating for public transit. Alex serves on the boards of Bellwether Housing Group and the Freeway Park Association. She rents on First Hill, her family is happily car-free, and is the legal guardian of a teenager in Seattle Public Schools. Alex is a cancer survivor. She was named the ‘2008 ACLU-WA Youth Activist of the Year’, one of Seattle Magazine’s ‘Seattle’s Most Influential People of 2015’, and won a 2022 “Voices of Fairness” award from the Drivers Union. |
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Cathy Moore |
General Election Candidate Cathy Moore has spent her life working in service to others. Whether providing educational opportunities for women as a Peace Corps volunteer in Morocco, or representing people in the behavioral health system as a public defender, or protecting the rights of survivors of domestic violence as a legal services program manager, or advocating on behalf of indigent women against predatory lenders, or expanding the social and economic rights of women as chair of the Seattle Human Rights Commission, or working to reform the criminal legal system as a King County Superior Court judge, or lobbying for reproductive healthcare and gun safety as an activist, she has been a dedicated advocate for equity and justice. As the mother of adult children and the caregiver for her elderly mother until her death, Cathy has lived the challenges women face juggling work and home responsibilities. As a Seattle City Council member, she will prioritize child/elder care, equal pay, health care and economic power. |
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ChrisTiana ObeySumner |
General Election Candidate ChrisTiana first became involved in social justice advocacy and organized on campus when they attended Seattle University after moving to Seattle in 2010. They would go on to work in the permanent supportive housing space, but saw how the grants received did not match the needs on the ground. This led them to become the CEO and principal consultant of Epiphanies of Equity LLC, a consulting firm that specializes in social change, intersectionality, antiracism, and disability justice. ChrisTiana has served on panels for the Housing Development Consortium and Seattle Center RSJI and has given guest lectures at the UW, Seattle U, and M.I.T. They are the former co-chair of the Seattle’s Disabilities commission and of the Seattle Renter’s commission. They’ve also previously or currently serve as a member or lay-leader on the following boards: Washington LIHA, Seattle University’s African American Alumni Association, and the King County Board for Developmental Disabilities Legislative Council |
 Senayet NegusseSeaTac City Council Position 1 |
General Election Candidate Senayet Negusse is a dedicated educator, advocate, and member of the SeaTac community. She currently serves as the Deputy Mayor of the City of SeaTac. Senayet was born to Ethiopian refugees in South King County and has lived in the area for her entire life. She holds a Master of Education in Education Policy and Leadership, a Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Sciences, and a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood and Family Studies from the University of Washington. She currently works as a language equity program manager for the King County Executive Office of Equity and Social Justice. She has over seven years of experience working cross-collaboratively internally and externally with historically underserved populations in various institutions, including higher education, early childhood government, and community-based non-profits. Senayet lives in SeaTac with her husband, Lukas, and their twin boys. |
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General Election Candidate Elizabeth has 15 years of social work experience, primarily focused on domestic and sexual violence prevention and response. She has worked at nonprofits and universities, including UC Berkeley and UW Bothell. Career highlights include being responsible for sexual violence prevention education for all 40,000 undergrad students at Berkeley, co-chairing to work to launch UW’s first-ever sexual violence prevention training required for all students and employees, and obtaining a significant federal grant for UW Bothell to grow its violence prevention program. In Fall 2022, Elizabeth took an instructional design role in the tech sector, where she is applying her experience with training and education to the world of robotics. Elizabeth has a BA in Photography, with a minor in Women and Gender Studies, from Montana State University. She has a Masters in Social Welfare from UC Berkeley. Elizabeth has lived in SeaTac since 2020, with her wife and their pets, and her mother-in-law in an ADU. |
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General Election Candidate Damiana Merryweather graduated from the University of Oregon with a Bachelors in History. She spent the first 15 years of her professional life working in state and local policy and as an advocate for human services including long term care, mental health and addiction treatment. During her time in Oregon she also served on the boards of Basic Rights Oregon and NARAL Pro-Choice Oregon as well as volunteering for Planned Parenthood. She moved to Washington in 2007 to work as the Statewide Political Director for United Food and Commercial Workers. In 2010 she left the political world and built a new career in food and beverage. She built and operated her own food truck. She and her husband then went on to open their own successful restaurants. They now own and operate four locations of their restaurant in the greater Seattle area. She is also a primary caregiver for two young children aged 5 and 7. She is committed to fostering a safe and healthy city for her family and neighbors. |
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Doris McConnell |
General Election Candidate Doris McConnell graduated from WSU in psychology. After seeing David through medical school, she completed a school psychology master's program. Eventually, she created a career purchasing rental homes, while raising her children as a widow. Through her PTA volunteerism, Doris received 2 Golden Acorn Awards. She is committed to women and social issues, having supported domestic violence victims for decades and is a current member of the Domestic Violence Initiative. She has successful and proudly recruited women for numerous public offices. Doris is seeking re-election to the Shoreline City Council where she was first elected in 2008, thus helping to reignite a stalled highway project. Doris has been appointed to many committees because she is a consensus-builder. She appreciates the continued trust bestowed upon her by her citizens and has successfully voted in many policies and projects that are in alignment with the values of her citizens. She loves serving her community! |
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Betsy Robertson |
General Election Candidate Betsy Robertson had been serving the Shoreline community for 10 years. First as a volunteer member of the Parks, Recreation, Cultural Services and Tree board, before being elected to the city council in 2019. She led the community campaign to successfully pass Prop 1, a parks expansion and improvement measure in 2022, and is eager to see its transformative public projects take shape in the years to come. Betsy sits on the North King County Coalition on Homelessness, and is an appointed delegate to the Regional Transit Committee in King County. She is a champion for and mentor to women looking to engage in their local communities and working to improve quality of life for all who live, work and play in Shoreline. That means supporting families and small business owners, and having sensible policies in place to support the need for housing at all income levels, while always considering the need to grow in environmentally responsible ways. |
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Tanya Lavoy |
Tanya Lavoy was raised in a multigenerational household by a single mother and grandmother, and is mother to a toddler. She has a BA in International Relations from Michigan State University and a Master of Public Administration from The Evergreen State College. As a Legislative Assistant in the Washington State Senate and former community organizer, her career has been focused on serving others and bringing people together. She is running for city council to bring that same collaborative problem solving to Snoqualmie and bring new voices to the table. She plans to make sure that Snoqualmie makes the best use of the tools at its disposal to effectively address housing affordability, promoting safe routes for walking and biking, and preserving our open spaces. |
Barbara Tolbert
Kristiana de Leon
Amanda Dodd
Cydney Moore
Katherine Festa
Victoria Hunt
Melanie O'Cain
Jasmine Vasavada
Maggie Sanders
Navarra Carr
Vanessa Kritzer
Elizabeth Greninger
Damiana Merryweather
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Lisa Brown |
General Election Candidate Lisa Brown is an economist, educator, civic leader, and former state legislator. Lisa served a citizen legislator for 20 years, representing the Third Legislative District. In 2005, she became the first Democratic woman in state history to hold the position of Senate Majority Leader. Lisa also served as the Chancellor of Washington State University’s Spokane health sciences campus, and led the development of WSU’s rapidly growing center for health sciences education and research. Her collaboration with community partners led to the establishment of the Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine. Most recently, Lisa served as the Director of the Washington State Department of Commerce where under her leadership, Commerce developed the Small Business Resiliency Network, supported broadband expansion to underserved communities and dramatically expanded investments into affordable housing development. |
 Lindsey ShawSpokane City Council, District 1 Position 1 |
General Election Candidate I was born and raised in a working class family right here in Northeast Spokane, with a single mom who did her best. I was involved in high school politics and moved away after graduation. In 2008 I moved back to Spokane with a new appreciation for the city and could see how the NE side of Spokane needed some work. I started with clean ups along the centennial trail and enjoyed riding my bike all over the city. I was married and had two boys, 18 months apart and became a stay at home mom. I knew if I worked my paycheck would go to childcare. We bought a home in 2015 that had squatter neighbors and I joined my neighborhood council to find help. This lead to me learning about city process and programs. I got to see my shared ideas come to fruition. 2019 I became an AmeriCorps, learning about youth needs. 2020 I was a community health worker learning more about community needs. I listen and fight to help reduce stress in my community members lives to better our community for all. |
 Cyndi DonahueSpokane City Council, District 2 Position 1 |
Cyndi Donahue is a community and business leader who will serve Spokane with a collaborative, non-partisan, solution-oriented approach. She cares deeply about equity, diversity, and inclusion, and founded the Amplifying Women’s Voices program to provide leadership training for working women in our community. Donahue serves on the Downtown Spokane Partnership Business Improvement Board and is a Fairchild Air Force Base Honorary Commander, as well as a committee member for Executive Women International of Spokane, a philanthropic organization that provides scholarships for women. She served on the Regional Community Economic Development Strategy Committee, which developed a plan calling for a more resilient workforce, equitable real estate development and increased childcare options. Donahue graduated the Leadership Spokane program in 2020 and was named a Top 20 Women in Business Leadership by Spokane Coeur d’Alene magazine in 2019. Donahue will continue to advocate for women. |
 Kitty KlitzkeSpokane City Council, District 3 Position 1 |
General Election Candidate Kitty grew up in North Spokane and her family has deep roots in this community. She worked for over twenty years to protect neighborhoods and the environment in ways that support economic growth. While at The lands Council she worked to protect the Spokane River and at Futurewise she worked to encourage healthy, equitable and opportunity-rich communities, and to protect our most valuable farmlands, forests and water resources through wise land use policies and practices. She will continue building strong neighborhoods to improve our incredible city. Strong neighborhoods are convenient, walkable, bikeable, safe and supported by first responders and essential services. She will work to ensure neighborhood voices are heard, that our taxpayer dollars are used wisely and that our city is safe and equitable for everyone. |
 Jeannette TwittyPort of Tacoma Commissioner Position 1 |
General Election Candidate I'm an Army Veteran and have been spiritual bound residents of Washington for a combined 30 years. As parents of 3 beautiful adult daughters and one son, Jeannette have had the chance to understand the mistakes made throughout daily living decisions. Those experiences have led to establishing a place for second chances, now established as The House of Matthew Permanent & Supportive Housing. During this time, she has dedicated her time and service serving our Pierce County communities as Foster Parent of at-risk youth, veterans affairs at Tacoma’s local Veteran Hospital, and active members of the Tacoma Community College Foreign Exchange Program, hosting foreign exchange students attending Tacoma Community College to extend their education in the United States. Jeannette is happy to be apart of the nonprofit community as parents, established adult mentors, and residents. They look forward to making ,making second chances happen. |
 Myrah BallentineTacoma Civil Service Board Position 3 |
General Election Candidate I was born and raised in Pierce County where I have lived for 42 years. I am a community partner, a mother who chose to raise her children here, and I am a life-long student. I stay grounded by serving my community in the City of Destiny. My commitment to serve others guides my leadership style. I am a dual liaison for the Washington Student Engagement Network for University of Washington Tacoma Campus and Tacoma Community College. I serve on the Executive Board as the Central Neighborhood Council Secretary. Tacoma Community College's Asian and Pacific Islander Club President and ASTCC Student Senator. I am member with the League of Women Voters, a member of the Asian Pacific Culture Center and serve the Board at Peace Center. All employees deserve to be treated fairly, with dignity and respect, and I want to bring my experience and values and your voice to serve the City of Tacoma on the Civil Service Board. I hope to earn your vote to serve! |
 Olgy DiazTacoma City Council At Large Position 7 |
General Election Candidate Born and raised in Pierce County, Olgy Diaz grew up in a military and union household that valued hard work, humor, and family above all else. Her parents immigrated to the United States from Guatemala in the 1970s. Olgy became the first in her family to attend and graduate from college with dual bachelor’s degrees in Latin American Studies and Women’s Studies from the University of Washington. In August of 2022, Olgy was selected from 42 applicants to fill a council vacancy and became the first Latina to serve on the Tacoma City Council. Throughout her career, she has worked to foster a more reflective democracy and expand access to power through work with local non-profits like OneAmerica and Planned Parenthood, the Washington State Legislature, and candidate campaigns across Pierce County. Council Member Diaz lives in South Tacoma with her two dogs Pepita and Pancho and a vast collection of over 100 houseplants. |
 Kristina WalkerTacoma City Council At Large Position 8 |
General Election Candidate Kristina was elected to the Tacoma City Council in 2019 and became Tacoma’s Deputy Mayor in 2023. Before serving on the City Council, Kristina was the Executive Director of Downtown On the Go, a nonprofit organization that promotes and advocates for walking, biking, and transit in downtown Tacoma. She is a proud graduate of Pacific Lutheran University and serves as a member of the UW Tacoma Urban Studies Board and the Transportation Choices Coalition Board. Kristina lives in Tacoma with her husband, a teacher, and their two kids. |
 Kristin AngPort of Tacoma, Commissioner Position 5 |
General Election Candidate Kristin Ang is a Port of Tacoma Commissioner, NWSA Managing Member, and Filipino-American attorney. She is the first person of color to serve on the Port of Tacoma commission and honored with the historical endorsement of the Puyallup Tribe of Indians. She serves on the Washington Council of International Trade and the Executive Committee of the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) Economic Development Board. Commissioner Ang is committed to advocating for women's rights and women's economic development and empowerment. |
 Kate KrullerTukwila Mayor |
General Election Candidate Kate is a sitting Tukwila City Councilmember, with regional and national board member/chair duties at the National League of Cities, Association of Washington Cities and Sound Cities Association. She is a life-long advocate for women and modified the WSDCC member rules to include non-binary people. Education and Profession: Kate is an Information Technology Manager. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications, a Master of Business Administration degree in Engineering/Technology Management and a Project Management Professional credential from the Project Management Institute. An elected precinct committee officer and community organizer since 2005, Kate has served in a number of capacities individually and in organizational leadership, promoted citizenship, registered voters and distributed helpful information to voters in our community about elections, ballot issues and significant activities (such as the 2010 & 2020 census, county charter updates, re-districting, etc.) |
 Leatta DahlhoffTumwater City Council Position 1 |
General Election Candidate Working for over 20 years improving and safeguarding our health and environment not only for today but for our future. Through research and creative solutions at two state agencies, Department of Enterprise Services and Department of Ecology, Leatta's work has resulted in reducing pollution and reducing toxics and hazardous substance use throughout Washington. Leatta has extensive board leadership and volunteer experience with organizations that advocate for and provide services to our community. These experiences help her connect people with resources in addressing city needs, undertaking initiatives, and pursuing solutions. Being an active member of our community and her work as an environmental scientist enable her to bring a unique perspective. |
 Joan CatheyTumwater City Council Position 3 |
General Election Candidate B.A. Biological Science, History and English. Pasadena College Business owner Nothing has advocated more strongly for women over the course of my life and careers than my presence in these positions. I would tell women to never underestimate the power of their presence as the unique woman that they bring to the challenges and goals of their lives. |
 Kelly Von HoltzTumwater City Council Position 7 |
General Election Candidate Kelly Von Holtz is a seasoned leader with 30 years of state service. Currently, she's the Public Relations and Marketing Director at The Evergreen State College. Holding a Master's in Public Administration and a Bachelor's in Emergency Management, Kelly's academic and professional background underscores her commitment to creating positive change. A dedicated advocate for women's issues, Kelly draws from experience as a single mother raising three children on a limited income, as well as her caregiving role for her father with Alzheimer's. Married now to a retired Army vet, together, they have a blended family of six grown children and one granddaughter. With a deep passion for gender equity, Kelly fosters inclusivity and equal opportunities for women. As an elected official, she will amplify the voices of women, crafting policies that address their unique challenges and empower their progress. Kelly's vision builds a more inclusive society where everyone's potential is realized. |
 Alecia CunninghamUniversity Place City Council Position 7 |
General Election Candidate My experience in non-profit, philanthropic, and corporate sectors will inform how I lead on the City Council. In my current role as the Executive Director for BAM Seattle, I create and manage complex budgets and ensure our programs exceed their benchmarks. I serve as a voice for our community on the Northeast Business District Advisory where I work directly with the head of economic development for UP on shaping the future of our business development. In my previous role as the Director of Corporate and Comm I’m running because I want to continue to serve our community and ensure we remain a city where we can all feel safe, where long-standing and new local businesses can thrive, and where we can all access enhanced community resources. As a current member of the University Place Park Advisory Commission and Northeast Business District Advisory, I understand firsthand how important it is to elect leaders who have the personal and professional experience to lead on the City Council. |
 Sarah FoxVancouver City Council Position 6 Dual Endorsement |
General Election Candidate Sarah Fox is serving on Vancouver City Council and is seeking a second term. Sarah is the Climate Program Manager for the Growth Management Services unit at the Washington State Department of Commerce and is leading a multiyear project to develop guidance for counties and cities to address climate change. Sarah has an expertise in environmental policy development, current development review, and long-range planning that she gained from 18 years as a local agency planner. She earned a Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Portland State University. She is a U.S. Army veteran, single mom of two and was raised by entrepreneur parents who ran a small construction company. Sarah volunteers with the following: Columbia River Economic Development Council Board and Finance Committee; Children’s Justice Center Executive Board; EPA Local Government Advisory Committee; Honor Guard for Veterans of Foreign Wars; construction crew volunteer for Habitat for Humanity; Friends of Trees. |
 Leah PerkelVancouver City Council Position 6 Dual Endorsement |
General Election Candidate Leah Perkel, a devoted advocate for progressive causes, is a mother of two children who has made significant contributions in her role as a customer service representative. Born and raised in Vancouver, Leah's passion for social justice was ignited at a young age. Throughout her career, she has channeled her enthusiasm into various progressive political campaigns, fighting tirelessly for women's rights and reproductive freedom. With a strong belief in the power of grassroots movements, Leah has actively engaged with local communities, empowering individuals to voice their concerns and effect positive change. Her dedication to inclusive policies and equal opportunities has earned her widespread recognition among colleagues and peers. Whether it's organizing rallies, attending town hall meetings, or lobbying for legislative reform, Leah's commitment to creating a more equitable society is unwavering. In her personal life, Leah finds joy and inspiration in her loving family. |
 Dulce GutierrezYakima City Council District 1 |
General Election Candidate Dulce Gutierrez was born and raised in the city of Yakima. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Washington and has worked for the Washington State Labor Council for eight years, providing support and direct services to union members and their families. She takes great pride in offering immigration services that help people naturalize and become citizens of the United States of America. Between 2015 and 2019, Dulce was honored to serve on the Yakima City Council as the representative for District 1 in Northeast Yakima. Dulce avidly advocated for equitable public policy and led efforts to improve parks and city services. In her spare time, Dulce loves volunteering in the community and raise donations for charitable issues. She has served on the Executive Boards of local non-profit organizations, including the YWCA of Yakima, OIC of Washington, Planned Parenthood, and Entrust Community Services. |
 Holly CousensYakima City Council District 7 |
General Election Candidate Holly Cousens obtained her BA degree(s) in Marketing and Human Resources through City University of Seattle. Holly then obtained two masters degrees, one in Organizational Leadership and the other in Business Administration (MBA) from City University of Seattle. Holly is passionate about giving back to her community. She is the department head for the Business Technology Program at Yakima Valley College. Teaching and motivating others to reach their full potential is her “why”. Holly, was elected to the Yakima City Council the end of 2015, after the ACLU sued the City of Yakima for voting rights violations. Holly testified on the Voting Rights Act and has since stood up for Woman’s rights in many aspects, including speaking on stage with President Obama, and travelling to South Korea to be the first woman asked to sit at the table. Holly, wants to pave the way for other women and and minorities to step up and run for leadership roles. |
COUNTY POSITIONS |
 Becka Johnson PoppeKing County Council District 4 Dual Endorsement |
Becka has spent her career putting progressive priorities into action and supporting women as a policy and people leader. She currently oversees half of King County’s $16 billion budget and centers the voices of women and non-binary people in decision-making. As the UW’s Director of Policy, Planning & State Operations, she implemented Paid Family & Medical Leave and improved access to higher education. Becka volunteers as a Board Member for YouthCare and the Doney Coe Pet Clinic, on the Jackson Foundation Leadership Council, and as a Precinct Committee Officer. Throughout all these roles, Becka has promoted pay equity, leadership opportunities, and representation in decision-making for women. She has also worked in mental health research to address issues that disproportionately affect people who are transgender, non-binary, and gender nonconforming. On County Council, Becka will prioritize supporting caregivers, tackling climate change, and promoting an equitable economy. |
 Sarah ReyneveldKing County Council District 4 Dual Endorsement |
General Election Candidate Sarah Reyneveld is a managing attorney in the Attorney General’s Office, union member, mom, community advocate, and 25-year resident of the 4th Council District. A long-time public servant, Sarah has dedicated her 15-year career in public service to working on crafting policy, legal, and budgetary solutions to some of our most pressing issues. An Assistant Attorney General for over 10 years, she has fought to ensure workers get the wages they are entitled to and environmental violators are held accountable. In 2017, Councilmember Kohl-Welles appointed Sarah to serve on the King County Women’s Advisory Board where she has helped to secure investments in child care, housing, behavioral health, and services for survivors of gender-based violence. Sarah is a graduate of Smith College, the UW School of Law, and the Evans School of Public Policy and Governance where she served as a lecturer. She will be tireless champion for women and the most marginalized on the King County Council. |
 Claudia BalducciKing County Council District 6 |
General Election Candidate Claudia Balducci is Councilmember for King County District 6, former Bellevue Mayor and Councilmember, as well as a daughter, wife and mom. A regional leader, Claudia currently serves as President of the Puget Sound Regional Council and Chair of the Sound Transit Board’s System Expansion Committee. She served as Council Chair from 2020 to 2022, leading the Council through the response to COVID. Claudia has a track record of championing major initiatives to improve the lives of women and families, including expanding public transit to connect people to opportunity and the necessities of life; implementing programs to provide affordable homes for thousands of people in our County; and improving access to childcare, behavioral health and other critical services, all with an eye to equity and serving those most in need and often most overlooked. If re-elected, Claudia is committed to continue working towards solutions for the issues affecting women and all King County residents. |
 Sofia AragonKing County Council District 8 Dual Endorsement |
General Election Candidate Sofia Aragon is a nonprofit executive director and Mayor for the City of Burien. She is ED for the Washington Center for Nursing, the state’s nursing workforce center. Public policy is her passion, with years of experience advocating on legislative issues such as workplace safety, full adoption of the Affordable Care Act, higher education and public health funding, banning toxics in the environment, and racial equity. As the first woman of color in the role of Mayor, she took a stand on anti-Asian hate; supported a co-response model so that a mental health crisis is not treated like a crime; assured city and county collaboration for affordable housing; voted for ARPA dollars to go towards supporting small businesses, childcare, and apprenticeships; explored ways to enhance public safety despite an officer shortage; and others. She earned a BA in Economics from UW-Seattle, a BSN in Nursing from Seattle University, and a Juris Doctor from Loyola University-Chicago School of Law. |
 Teresa MosquedaKing County Council District 8 Dual Endorsement |
General Election Candidate Teresa Mosqueda is a Seattle City Councilmember at-large, elected as a Progressive Labor Democrat in 2017 and again in 2021. Mosqueda is committed to expanding and improving the health and economic opportunity for all. She’s brought together diverse coalitions to pass impactful policy by staying true to progressive principles, being practical about application, and inclusive of diverse perspectives. By uniting labor, business, housing, transit and environmental advocates, Mosqueda was able to pass historic legislation in her nearly 6 years in office: paid sick & safe leave for gig workers, JumpStart progressive payroll tax, quadrupled the investments in affordable housing, funded Green New Deal priorities, expanded protections for hotel workers, domestic workers, grocery workers, janitors and city employees. |
 Amber WiseKing County Hospital District 2, Commissioner Position 6 |
General Election Candidate Amber's journey in Washington started 10 years ago at Pike Place Market before she moved on to working childcare for the families of Harborview Hospital. After her second child and in search for a flexible schedule and good benefits, she started working at PCC Community Markets where she currently remains. She’s enrolled in WeTrain’s Meatcutter apprentice program, and is on track to earn her Journey Meatcutter License in 2024. Amber is a member of UFCW3000 and belongs on their racial justice and climate justice advisory boards. As commissioner, she wants to create a more diverse space within the board in order to offer more perspective and advocate for more gender-inclusive developments and services within the hospital. |
 Brynn FelixLD 23 State Representative Position 2 |
Brynn Felix serves as General Counsel for Peninsula Community Health Services, a nonprofit community health center. Prior to joining PCHS, Brynn was a litigator and clerked for the Honorable Justice Mary I. Yu at the Washington Supreme Court. Before her legal career, she served as a classroom teacher and was a civil rights lobbyist and community organizer with the ACLU of Washington. Brynn currently serves on the Access to Justice Board, whose mission is to expand access to civil legal aid for all Washingtonians. She also serves on the board of directors of Kitsap Community Resources, an antipoverty community action agency, and is a member of the Suquamish Community Advisory Council. Brynn received a BA in Politics from U.C. Santa Cruz, an MA in Human Rights from Central European University, and a JD from Boston University. Brynn will use her position to increase access to healthcare services and protect reproductive and gender-affirming care. |
 Jamie SmithPierce County Council District 2 |
General Election Candidate From a family of teachers, nurses, veterans, and police officers, Jamie Smith is running for Pierce County Council, Position 2, because she was born to serve. Jamie has served her community for 18 years as an educator. As a leader in her profession she has created new teacher evaluation tools, represented her union for over a decade, and earned a National Board Certificate. Jamie also works with a national non-profit to develop character in students throughout the nation. She provides free training and curriculum to teachers across the United States, helping students recognize the ability within themselves to accomplish their dreams and to understand that every person has the potential to change the world. Her role building character, cohesion, and compromise are skills needed in our political climate. Jamie Smith will use the skills she has developed to fight for our women and families down in Pierce County. |
 Carol McMahonSouth Snohomish County Fire & Rescue Regional Fire Authority, Commissioner District 2 |
General Election Candidate Carol McMahon is the right person to serve as our Fire Commissioner, combining experience, ability, training, and skill in a position of governance and accountability. Carol brings a commitment to democratic governance and to diversity, equity and inclusion in our publicly-owned fire utility. Her experience is diverse, from working with professional engineers, then as Planner for Boeing, to development of large family housing at Seattle Housing Authority, and back to Boeing. She is a lifelong learner whose equally diverse education includes a BA in Political Science, MS in Project Management, and professional certificates in Facilities Management, and Strategic Decision-Making and Risk Management. She held a professional credential as a Project Management Professional for 17 years. Only with Carol’s election will the City of Lynnwood receive long awaited representation on the board of the SCRFA fire commission and she will proudly serve as the district’s only woman commissioner. |
 Linda HjelleSnohomish County Assessor |
General Election Candidate irst elected in 2015, Linda has served in the Assessor’s Office for over 33 years. Under her leadership, the Assessor’s Office consistently produces fair and equitable values and utilizes the latest developments in technology to create efficiencies and improve property tax transparency for property owners including creating and implementing new easy access website tools. While serving as Assessor, Linda has been an unwavering advocate for Snohomish County residents, supporting tax law change in Olympia for Senior Citizen exemption levels and testifying on residents’ behalf for change in the Sound Transit taxable boundaries. She currently serves on the Washington State Assoc. of County Assessors legislative committee, is chair of the Appraisal Standards Committee, chair of the Puget Sound Region Committee and a board member for the Washington Association of County Officials. Linda is also a dedicated community leader who is an active member of several local volunteer organizations |
 Cindy GobelSnohomish County Auditor |
General Election Candidate Cindy Gobel has 29 years of experience working in the four divisions of the Auditor’s office. Her first career was 11 years in law enforcement working with Licensing, Records, and Animal Services. As a Communications Manager she was responsible for state and federal reporting compliance for two divisions. Her second career was 12 years in the Snohomish County Auditor’s office Elections division, and 5 years in the Secretary of State’s Election division. Cindy provided legal compliance training to County Auditor’s and statewide Election Administrators while ensuring compliance of all state and federal election laws. Cindy has helped thousands of voters during her years of employment in elections at both county and state election offices. Cindy has a BA in Human Services, an MA in Adult Education, and a Juris Doctor from Seattle University Law School. As an elected official she will use her education and experience to increase access to county services while ensuring legal compliance. |
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General Election Candidate Megan Dunn is a community leader, environmental health advocate and proud mother of two running for re-election Snohomish County Council, District 2. With more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit advocacy and four years of elected experience, she has a passion for building strong, diverse coalitions that foster community. Dunn led Snohomish County through the pandemic and economic recovery. She tackled housing affordability and the homelessness crisis through enacting robust revenue programs, supported local workers and local businesses and championed environmental programs. She will re-focus on the emerging issues facing the county, including workforce development needs, reducing waste, making local government more efficient, helping our small businesses recover from COVID and fighting to defend reproductive justice. |
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General Election Candidate A decorated law enforcement leader with over three decades keeping communities safe, Susanna Johnson has the experience, judgment, and integrity to lead our Sheriff’s Office. Susanna started her dream job at the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office at the age of 22. She worked in the toughest and most sought-after units, continuously promoting through the ranks until becoming the Bureau Chief. Three years ago, Susanna Johnson was recruited by the Bothell Police Department to serve as a Lateral Police Captain. She was promoted to Deputy Chief last year. Susanna is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, which is the most sought-after executive law enforcement leadership training in the world, and also worked her way through college to earn a master's degree. Susanna recognizes this is a pivotal time for the profession and she believes this is the most critical time for experienced leaders to step up and lead the way in recruiting and promoting women for the profession. |
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General Election Candidate Emily is former Military Intelligence Analyst with top-secret security clearance, a supervisor with the Dept. of Social and Health Services (DSHS) Office of Forensic Mental Health Service, a former family-owned small business manager and Executive Director of the Collaborative Association for Reintegration & Education (CARE Olympia). She has also served as a Democratic PCO in 2016-2017 and caucused for Bernie Sanders in 2016. At the core of her work is concern for women and families, reflected through her commitment to policies at the intersection economic, racial and social justice like universal healthcare, social housing, and prison abolition. |
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Alicia Rule, currently serving in the Washington State Legislature and a lifelong social worker, is running for Whatcom County Executive. She also owns a mental health practice for children, youth and families. As a mental health professional, she has worked with children, seniors and those living with disabilities. She's professionally worked in adoptions, in schools helping kids who are struggling, children and women who have been abused, as well as worked in hospice care. Alicia launched and served as the past president of the Blaine Downtown Development Association, working with small business owners to help attract family wage jobs to our community. She's served two terms as a Representative for the 42nd legislative in Olympia and is proud of the work they've accomplished on education, healthcare, and child welfare. She has always been active in the community as well, but of all the titles she's had, the most important one to her is the mother of three boys. |
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General Election Candidate Jackie Dexter has a BS from the Biology Department of Western Washington University and a Fisheries Certificate from Bellingham Technical College. Her professional experiences include: Aquaculturist, Drayton Harbor Oyster Farm; Whatcom County Marine Resource Committee, Economic Seat; Puget Sound Shellfish Growers Association Member; Whatcom County Shellfish Biotoxin Monitoring Program; Published work in the Journal of Shellfish Research. She has no prior political experience but is a passionate community member that also volunteers with the Blaine Elementary School PTO and other local events. As a previous member of the Policy Council for the Blaine Head Start Program, I will continue to advocate and strive for improvements in the affordable childcare and early child education programs. If elected, I will continue to support, encourage, and hire women whenever possible. I am often proof that women can and will do anything they set their mind and hearts to, if given the opportunity. |
Megan Dunn
Susanna Johnson
Emily Clouse
Alicia Rule
Jackie Dexter
SCHOOL BOARD POSITIONS |
 Monica WebsterBellevue School District Director District 4 |
General Election Candidate Monica has a Master's in Public Health from Eastern Washington University and currently works for the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) as an Access to Care FIT (Family Initiated Treatment) Manager. She has served on a volunteer basis in many capacities over the past 17 years both within her community with the Women’s Justice Circle, Kaiser Permanente Equity and Access Committee, The African American Health Board and within the Bellevue School District; served as former President of the Parent Alliance for Black Scholars, the Strategic Planning Committee, SRO Advisory Committee, Planning for the Future Community (Audit) Committee (BSD school consolidation), and currently on the Equity Advisory and Advocacy Collaborative (EAAC) as well as the Family Engagement Committee (FEC). At the state level she serves on the, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Team for HCA. She plans to continue her advocacy through supporting inclusive policies in the Bellevue School District. |
 Karen BoltonBremerton School District Director Position 1 |
General Election Candidate Dr. Bolton has spent her career serving our country and community. After serving in the Navy focused on training sailors, Dr. Bolton worked as a professor at Olympic College, training specialist at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, and now as a member of the City of Bremerton’s Race Equity Advisory Committee.v |
 Janet CaldwellClover Park School Distict Director District 5 |
General Election Candidate For the past 28 years, Janet Caldwell has been a public school educator in the Bethel School District and currently serves as the Bethel Education Association president. Janet earned her BA from Washington State University, MA from City University, and in 2014, National Board Certification. Janet has actively engaged in Equity Teams, the Secondary Traumatic Stress Taskforce and co-chaired the Behavior Task Force. In 2015 she led the creation of the Bethel Annual Climate Survey, which has led to systemic district changes at all levels. In leadership roles, Janet has faced discrimination for her gender as well as publically identifying staff and student needs. She presented data on BIPOC staff resignations and plans to expand that work to include other historically marginalized groups. Janet Caldwell is an honest, empathetic leader who listens to understand and learns from others' perspectives. She believes in an equitable and just society that empowers all people to be successful. |
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Carin Chase |
General Election Candidate Carin is seeking re-election to the Edmonds School Board. She has been actively involved in our school district for over a decade as a parent, volunteer, paraeducator substitute, and now as a School Board Member. Carin is a product of Washington State public education, from pre-school to graduate school, at the UW Evans School of Public Policy. She is also a proud parent of a Mountlake Terrace High School graduate. Carin has served as the Board's Legislative Representative and the Washington State School Directors (WSSDA) District 1 Representative, working to fully fund our schools including special education, and reducing class sizes. She values independent critical thinking, is willing to ask tough questions, and will continue to be a responsible steward of our school funds. |
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Nancy Katims |
General Election Candidate Nancy Katims has a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from Northwestern University. She has dedicated her entire professional career of over 40 years to serving in various roles in public education. She believes that public education is the key to ensuring our future generations are prepared to break down systemic bias that has caused women and other marginalized groups to be treated unequally. Nancy is currently serving in her first four-year term as School Board Director in the Edmonds School District, position 5, and is in her second year as School Board President. Nancy has been a champion of women's rights throughout her adult life and especially enjoys mentoring young women who aspire to be political activists and/or to enter fields traditionally underrepresented by women, such as math and science. As a School Board Director, Nancy employs equity as a fundamental principle that guides all her decision making. |
 Luckisha PhillipsFederal Way School District Director District 3 |
General Election Candidate Luckisha Phillips was appointed in 2018 and elected in 2019 to the Federal Way Public School Board since. Luckisha is a native of Washington and has lived in the greater Federal Way area for 15+ years with her husband and four children. Mrs. Phillips has over 20 years of experience that centers on children and families. She is a working mom, currently teaching as a Professor in Early Childhood Education in our local community colleges. She has previously worked in the nonprofit sector with direct service agencies like The Boys and Girls Club, YMCA Children’s Crisis Team, and YWCA Reentry and Reunification. She has also been a teacher in early childhood education classrooms, birth-to-three centers, and special needs classrooms. Her experience will help inform policy work to support women and children. Now more than ever is the time to elect leaders that bring equity and compassion into decision making. Thank you for your support. |
 Jennifer JonesFederal Way School District Director District 2 |
General Election Candidate Dr. Jennifer Jones has served as a Federal Way School Board Director since 2019. As a Professor of Geography and Global Studies at Highline College, she has taught Women's Studies and works to make study abroad accessible to low income students. In her 25 years as an educator and mentor, she has taught over 7,000 students--including many who are now educators in Federal Way Schools themselves! Dr. Jones is a popular lecturer on global issues at Wesley Homes and Judson Park senior residences. She is the proud parent of a TJ High School graduate. Prior to moving to Washington State, Dr. Jones was a social worker in Chicago, assisting women and children experiencing domestic violence. She also worked with women's groups on reproductive health and food security in the Peace Corps in the Congo and the Dominican Republic. She has a PhD in Geography from UC Berkeley, a MA in Public Policy from the University of Chicago and a BA in Political Science from Carleton College in Minnesota. |
 Tesa FrevertGriffin School District Director Position 1 |
General Election Candidate Tesa Frevert was born and raised in rural Colorado, growing up understanding the meaning of hard work in a farming and ranching family. She attended Colorado State University, and while there took a gap year to work in Japan for an educational non-profit. Tesa spent 7 years working in the finance sector, and another 7 years in healthcare as a Physical Therapist Assistant. Upon moving to Washington, she was fortunate to be employed as a "domestic engineer," or stay at home mom. During this time, she began substitute teaching in Griffin School District. Tesa has always been an advocate for education and supporting our youth, specifically aiming to empower girls and promote equity within the school system. She also knows first-hand the challenges our teachers are presented with on a daily basis. Understanding that the biggest opportunity to influence change comes from the board level, Tesa is running for Griffin School Board Director Position #1. |
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General Election Candidate Stephanie was born in Yakima, Washington and raised in Kirkland Washington and is a first generation college graduate. She is a counselor, social worker and domestic violence advocate and currently works for the REACH program in Burien and White Center. REACH works to advocate for their clients in mitigating barriers faced as a result of systemic discrimination. Stephanie is actively involved in the SPEB organization (Supporting Partners in Education and Beyond), advocating for communities of color in education. She also sits on the Highline school district's Family Action Committee as well as The White Center Height's Dual language task force. Stephanie has been actively involved at White Center Heights and Cascade Middle School, volunteering her time in the nine years she has lived in White Center with her two sons. |
 Leslie HamadaKent School District Director District 3 |
General Election Candidate Leslie has been part of this community for many years, working tirelessly to make it a better place. The Past 3 years she has served as President of the Kent School Board of Directors. At present she serves as the Board’s Legislative Representative. She has received awards: CCS Spirit of Caring Recipient, Kent Kiwanis Everyday Hero Award, Kent Reporter Citizen of the Year Award, PTA EXECUTIVE OFFICER in 3 school districts, and COVINGTON citizen of the Year. She also has served her community in the following: Community of Kent Schools mentor, Founding Executive Board member KentHOPE- Homeless shelter for women & children. Served 6 years as elected female 47th LD representative to Washington State Democrats, and Elected PCO GRASSLAKE 6 years . Chair COVINGTON Human Services Commission 9 years. |
 Breezy MitchellCentral Kitsap School District Director District 2 |
General Election Candidate Breezy is a mother to three children in the Central Kitsap School District. Her experience running a business and working as a charge nurse in critical care has made her uniquely qualified to make difficult and complex decisions that impact many people. Listening, understanding, and respectful collaboration are Breezy's top priorities. She believes in creative problem-solving and innovation. Every decision she makes will be made in the best interests of the students and she will collaborate with others to set policies. Believing in open, honest, and respectful communication and giving a voice to students, parents, and educators. |
 Lindsey YocumLake Washington School District Director District 5 Dual Endorsement |
General Election Candidate Lindsey Yocum is running for School Director in the Lake Washington School District. She is a parent, teacher, and advocate for equity and inclusion. Lindsey received her BA in Business Management and MA in Teaching. Her thirteen-year career in education began in Lake Washington. Lindsey’s experiences as both a teacher and parent to disabled and neurodivergent children led her to advocate for equity and inclusion in schools, communities, and work environments. She currently serves as a PTO president, volunteer in our schools, and an IEP Parent Partner through the ARC of King County. Lindsey works with school level and district level equity teams and continually strives to advocate for inclusion and acceptance of all individuals. This advocacy work extends to her role as the director of a nonprofit farm with a mission to provide inclusive employment opportunities for adults in our community. Lindsey is eager to bring her passion, experience, and perspective to the LWSD School Board. |
 Janel SchermerhornLake Washington School District Director District 5 Dual Endorsement |
General Election Candidate Janel has dedicated the past six years to non-profit work, including serving as President of a women’s organization that supports women and children, and helping an NGO extract and resettle women from Afghanistan to multiple countries. During this time, it became clear that she needed to apply these experiences and her 20+ years of people and business management, policy development and implementation, and budget management toward disrupting the infrastructures that stabilize inequalities and exclusion in society. In support of this work, she is currently enrolled in the University of Edinburgh’s MSc Data, Inequality and Society program and running for the open Lake Washington School Board Director Position 5. Janel understands that there is no more critical and effective starting point to develop a better future for marginalized members of our community than the public school system. |
 Jody LeeMercer Island School District Director District 5 |
General Election Candidate Jody has a history of public and community service. She spent her professional life at the US Department of State as head of the program to mediate internal and interagency disputes, and training others in effective conflict management. For the past seven years she's been very involved in the Mercer Island community as a dedicated volunteer in schools, sports, and parent associations, and with organizations that are working to make the island better for children. She serves on the boards of the Mercer Island Youth and Family Services Foundation (the fundraising arm for the organization that funds school counselors and other community services), the Band Booster board (funding school music programs). Her undergraduate degree is in Political Science and French, and her Master's degree is in Conflict Resolution and Cross Cultural Communication. |
 Terri SchumacherNorth Kitsap School District Director District 4 |
General Election Candidate Terri Schumacher grew up in a loving, hardworking family. During her senior year in Federal Way, she completed cosmetology school. In 1995 she moved to Poulsbo to marry and raise a family. A few years later they opened The Head Hunter Salon. The salon’s culture is to “love all, serve all” with dignity and respect. Terri became active in the North Kitsap School District before her kids were born, volunteering with school auctions, classrooms, and office. When it was discovered that her child had a learning disability, she learned to navigate Individual Education Plans and 504 Plans. Knowing the difficulty, she has helped other parents. Skills that will make Terri an effective board member are communication, perseverance, accountability and high standards. Previous experience has honed her skills for working with a team, involving stakeholders, and explaining goals and vision clearly. Her passion is to create a safe learning environment for every student. |
 Stacy MillsNorth Kitsap School District, Director District 5 |
General Election Candidate Stacy Mills, an advocate for women's issues and experienced professional, has a solid educational background in Interdisciplinary Studies and Sociology, with a particular focus on sex and gender studies. They have made significant contributions to the field of women's advocacy through their work in social and health services within Tribal government, where they prioritized the needs of children and families. With their expertise, Stacy plans to continue advocating for women as an elected official by championing policies that promote gender equality and empowerment, leveraging their educational and professional experiences to effect positive change. |
 Elisabeth SotakNorthshore School District Director District 2 |
General Election Candidate Elisabeth Sotak likes to get things done. She comes from a long line of women who get things done. Elisabeth is a Teacher of Children with Visual Impairments who works with very young children and their families teaching them how to help their child access learning and playing. Elisabeth spends her days advocating for children. She is part of a team of professionals at Kindering, an early supports nonprofit dedicated to serve children under the age of three and their families in the Early Supports system. She has a BA in Human services, an M.Ed. in Special Education, and an additional certificate as a Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments. While Elisabeth is new to politics, she is not new to advocacy. She sees this as an opportunity to lead as an example of one of the many things women can do. This is especially important to her as she raises her young daughter to be a strong advocate for herself and for others and to create the best, most equitable community she can. |
 Han TranNorthshore School District Director District 3 |
General Election Candidate Han Tran is a dedicated advocate for quality education and community empowerment. With a background in engineering, business, and a passion for innovation, Han brings fresh perspectives to address educational challenges and ensure student success. As a former student of the Northshore School District and parent of two young children attending the same district she did, Han understands the importance of early childhood education in shaping the future. Her commitment to inclusivity is evident through her lived experience as a Vietnamese refugee and her volunteer work for the Ethnic Studies Development program, where she promotes conversations on student identity and empowerment. Han also serves as a Human Rights Commissioner for Washington, advocating for anti-discrimination policies. Additionally, she is a candidate for the Northshore Senior Center Board of Directors, aiming to bridge the generation gap and foster intergenerational connections. With a steadfast commitment to education, |
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General Election Candidate Stephanie is an NTPS parent, active ally to BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ youth, and part of the LGBTQIA+ community. She believes that all youth deserve equitable access to high quality public education. This begins with ensuring that the District complies with its Equity Resolution, prioritizes resources such as paraeducators and guidance counselors, and provides a safe learning and work environment for students and staff. One of her top priorities is to empower NTPS families to share their input about what's working well and where improvement is needed. She is Director of a WA Department of Commerce economic development program accelerating growth in key industries in WA. She is on the BoD of the TCI Network, a global community of leaders in innovation HQ in Spain. She holds a B.S. in Business from Austin Peay State University in TN. When she's not championing youth leaders, growing key industries, or having kitchen dance parties with her two children, she can be found hiking in the mountains |
 Hilary SeidelNorth Thurston School District Director District 4 Dual Endorsement |
General Election Candidate Hilary Seidel has served on the Olympia School Board since 2017 where all three of her children currently attend school. She is a graduate of the The Evergreen State College and has spent her career working in education and community service. As a school board member, Hilary has worked with fellow board members to adopt a gender neutral dress code. During Hilary's time on the board, she and other board members worked to co-create a strategic plan with the community that emphasizes compassion, wellness, and confronting bias. She is currently leading a policy review to better align district policies to equity goals and the strategic plan. If re-elected, Hilary will continue to focus on students' academic and social recovery from the pandemic, build on what is already great about Olympia’s schools, and support policies that ensure every student has the opportunity to achieve academic excellence in a supportive community that celebrates their unique identities and experiences. |
 Jess Tourtellotte-PalumboOlympia School District Director District 2 |
General Election Candidate Disabled at birth, Jess Tourtellotte-Palumbo has carved a path of success that did not come easy. She has over a decade of experience working with folx from marginalized communities—many of whom hold intersectional identities. Jess became the first in her family to earn a bachelor’s degree after attending The Evergreen State College in Olympia. She earned a Master in Science from the University of Illinois at Chicago in Disability and Human Development. Her passion led her to an internship in Washington, DC where she worked for the National Council on Independent Living lobbying on Capitol Hill. After working for Independent Living Centers, her focus centered on employment, then eventually brought her full-circle to education, working at The Evergreen State College in TRIO Student Success for Disability Support. Her students are incredible individuals—reminding her that despite how much success and change has been achieved, there is still so much work to do and connections to be made. |
 Leslie Van LeishoutOlympia School District Director District 4 |
General Election Candidate Leslie Van Leishout, candidate for Olympia School District #4 position, has worked in education for over 30 years in all levels from preschool to higher education as a teacher and administrator. She was managed programs such as homelessness, foster care, mental health, nursing, counseling, attendance, gender equity, and disabled students. Leslie sits on the board of the Little Red Schoolhouse and is on the Thurston County Homeless Advisory Committee. She has worked with OSPI on standards, benchmarks, and assessments in the art and on advisory committees for social emotional learning, and homelessness. Ms. Van Leishout is a Golden Apple Award winner (2013) for outstanding teaching and has been a state and national speaker and published author on standards, assessment, and teacher evaluation. Leslie relishes advocacy for the marginalized and disenfranchised child. She is the mother of six children and four grandchildren all of which have attended the Olympia School District. |
 Rosa TorresPasco School District Director At-Large Position 5 |
General Election Candidate Proven and insightful leader with deep finance expertise and experience at well-known organizations including Boeing Company, Ford Motor Company, Starbucks Coffee Company, Microsoft, and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. Earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Gonzaga University, and a MBA from the University of Notre Dame. Currently serving on the Pasco School Board, Pasco Planning Commission and Washington State School Directors Association Resolutions Committee. Past mentor with Junior Achievement and Communities in Schools. Driven by personally experiencing the transformative power of education and believing a quality education can unlock doors, empower all students, and uplift our entire community. Deeply understands representation matters and requires commitment and strength to voice the diverse perspectives and experiences of women, people of color and those who are marginalized to ensure school board actions reflect the needs and dreams of all students and families. |
 Trish CrockerPuyallup School District Director Position 2 |
General Election Candidate Trish graduated from University of Washington in 1991 (where she was a member of the local NARAL chapter,) with a Bachelor of Arts in German Area Studies where she also worked toward a Master of Public Administration. Following graduation, Trish started her career in grants management for Community Health Centers of King County (now HealthPoint), followed by Friends of Youth, Children’s Home Society of Washington, Multi-Service Center and now Pierce County, Human Services. Trish has nearly 25 years working with health and/or human services organizations to bring needed services for low-income and historically marginalized families and individuals. Trish has received certifications in Results Oriented Management and Administration and the Pierce County Bronze and Silver Leadership certifications. Her commitment to advocacy, education, results, and most importantly her commitment to the betterment and well-being of children is what drives her to run for Puyallup School Board. |
 Amanda CuthbertPuyallup School District Director Position 3 |
General Election Candidate As an Early Childhood Educator and proud member of our community, Amanda Cuthbert is committed to making our schools exceptional. She is running for School Board because Amanda believes in the value of public education. Amanda wants to work with teachers, parents and the community to ensure Puyallup School District students receive the world-class education they deserve. Amanda promises to make every effort to prepare our students for the workforce of the ever-changing global economy and have the tools to be ready for college. Her University of Washington Early Childhood Education degree, advocacy background and years of experience as an educator, and Board Member for Washington Childcare Centers Association have given Amanda the tools to advocate on behalf of educators, students and families. |
 Davida Sharpe-HaygoodPuyallup School District Director Position 5 |
General Election Candidate Davida Sharpe-Haygood is a community organizer and the founder of The Two-Way Racial Healing Project in Puyallup, WA. With a passion for people and community organizing, Davida strives to foster genuine community care while embracing the beauty of diversity. She organizes local communities around social justice and works as a consultant for organizations committed to promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion through cultural and policy changes. Davida holds a master's degree in special education and early education and is pursuing a doctorate in organizational leadership. As an associate professor of education at Pierce College, she supports students in their path to becoming educators for preschool through elementary school. Davida has two children who are connected with the Puyallup school district. |
 Chelsie BeckRichland School District Director District 3 |
General Election Candidate Chelsie Beck received her PhD in Chemistry from Washington State University. She has worked at a large research institute in Richland, WA since 2012. While working and raising two children she completed her master’s degree by taking evening classes at WSU Tri Cities. Her third child was born while she was pursuing her PhD, which she completed in 2021. She is running for Richland School District with no prior political experience but a strong desire to support all children. She has advocated for women by supporting Women Helping Women and Soroptimists. At work she is grateful to have learned from strong women and to pass on the tradition by mentoring women new to the workforce. As a working mother she is often sought out for advice surrounding maternity leave, childcare, balancing work and understands the importance of having gender equity in all places. |
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General Election Candidate Liza Rankin was elected to the Seattle School Board in fall 2019, and currently serves as the Vice President. The mom of 2 SPS students, she is laser-focused on governing for positive student outcomes and supporting equitable learning and working environments in SPS. For the past decade, she has engaged at the school, city, and state levels for kids, families, and schools, prioritizing special education, ample and equitable funding for public education, identity safety, family support, gun violence prevention, and sexual health education, which disproportionately impact women, mothers, and girls. Liza holds an MFA in Scenic Design for Theater and worked and taught in NYC and regionally before returning to her hometown, Seattle. She brings collaborative arts experience together with community organizing skills and deep policy and legislative knowledge to work for a public education system that values every child and family and creates the conditions for students to thrive. |
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General Election Candidate Debbie Carlsen is a small business owner as a consultant working within the nonprofit sector around organizational development, capacity building and advocacy. Carlsen is also an early learning educator. Carlsen has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 15 years, 10 of those years as an executive director of a LGBTQ+ economic and housing justice organization she co-founded called LGBTQ Allyship. Before entering the nonprofit sector, Carlsen taught for 5 years as an English as a Second Language Instructor at Renton Technical College. Currently, Debbie Carlsen is on the Olympic Hills Elementary PTA board as the Advocacy Chair. Debbie Carlsen attended Western Washington University graduating with a degree called Social Political Change through Ethnic and Feminist Studies and has earned a teaching certificate from Seattle University. Throughout Carlsen’s professional and volunteer life she has advocated to create transformative change for women and non-binary individuals. |
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General Election Candidate Evan Briggs is an independent documentary filmmaker whose short films have premiered in film festivals all over the country. Her first feature length film, The Growing Season, received press coverage from numerous national and international media outlets, and inspired the Care Across Generations Act which was introduced on the Senate floor in May 2019. Evan has taught filmmaking through the Digital Media Academy in San Francisco, as well as at the Seattle Film Institute and Seattle University. She also works as a freelance director, creating video content for businesses and organizations, and served as in-house videographer for Seattle Children's Hospital for nearly 10 years. Evan holds an MFA in Documentary Film Production from Stanford University and a BA in Literature from Duke University. She lives in NE Seattle with her husband and three sons. Evan is a lifelong champion of women, and looks forward to the opportunity to serve on the Seattle School Board. |
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General Election Candidate Gina Topp is a dedicated lawyer, education advocate, and West Seattle mom who has devoted her career to public service. As the chief legal counsel and policy advisor to King County Executive Dow Constantine, she played a crucial role in securing funding for the preservation of natural lands and urban green spaces through the Conserve Our Futures ballot measure. Gina is passionate about education and mental health support in schools, drawing from her own transformative experiences. She serves on the board of the West Seattle Rotary Club and is the former chair of the 34th District Democrats. Gina holds degrees from the University of Washington and resides in West Seattle with her husband and daughter. |
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General Election Candidate Christina is a Family Nurse Practitioner in Skagit Valley. She provides care for people through their lifespan. She has attended the University of Washington, Seattle Pacific University and received her Master's of Science in Nursing from Gonzaga University. As a nurse she went to Olympia and Washington DC to talk to representatives on improving working conditions for nurses and patients. She has been on the Sedro Woolley School Board for over 10 years and has enjoyed serving her community and the students of her district. She hopes to continue in this role. She has advocated for numerous students during her tenure and has thoroughly enjoyed seeing more girls taking classes such as Automotive Technology, Welding, and Woodshop. She has seen a growth of female students taking Technical Education Classes as well which opens more doors for women in the work force. She serves as one of two females on the Sedro Woolley School Board and holds the highest honor and title of President. |
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General Election Candidate Hannah Oliver is a former paraprofessional and current teacher who is running for Sedro Woolley School Board. Hannah is an experienced community organizer dedicated to advocating for women and trans people. Hannah obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Women's, Gender & Sexuality Studies from Central Washington University, where they advocated for stronger policies supporting survivors of sexual assault on campus and the addition of gender-inclusive dorms. After college, Hannah started working as a paraprofessional and became the advisor for the high school's social justice club where the students were able to advocate for free menstrual products in all school restrooms, more training for staff and community members on supporting LGBTQ+ students, and so much more. It was during this time that they realized their love for education and education advocacy. Hannah now has a masters in teaching with an endorsement in fine arts and social studies education. |
 Meghan JerriganShoreline School District Director District 1 |
General Election Candidate My name is Meghan Jernigan, I am a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, where I was born and raised, and have lived in the Seattle area since 2008. I currently serve as a Principal Consultant at Headwater People Consulting, a Native-led firm focused on systems change and organizational development. Over the past 13 years, I have advanced the public health science as a research faculty member at Washington State University and developed culturally attuned research practices at the Seattle Indian Health Board. I hold critical knowledge of tribal and urban public health systems, tribal and public policy, and organizational leadership drawn from a diverse network of colleagues, community partners, and mentors across multiple disciplines. The work I’m most proud to highlight is the work of the Shoreline School Board, and I would be honored to receive the endorsement of the National Women's Political Caucus of Washington as I seek my second term. |
 Kate EspySouth Kitsap School District, Director District 1 |
General Election Candidate Kate Espy has a Bachelor's Science degree in nursing. She has worked as an Emergency Department nurse for 20 years and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner for 25 years, for a few years did both. Advocating for women and girls has been a priority while doing this work. She has also advocated for women and girls while being the regional chair for the Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award along with volunteering for Girls on the Run Westsound. I was appointed to the South Kitsap School board in December 2021, During my time, I have frequently brought up the issue of advocating for our students by discussing safety in school, age-appropriate sex education, and privacy of pronouns if necessary for safety. Talking about these issues comes easy for me even when others don't want to listen. |
 Megan HigginsSouth Kitsap School District, Director District 2 |
General Election Candidate Megan graduated from Ephrata High School in Ephrata, WA and was a recipient of the Washington Scholars Scholarship. She then attended and graduated from the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Her work experience includes working for Seattle Children’s Research Department, and tutoring math classes at Marcus Whitman Middle School. Megan is dedicated to supporting women pursue the higher education. She will support STEAM classes to be funded and encourage teachers to show many examples of successful women in STEAM and leadership careers. |
 Elizabeth BonbrightTacoma School District Director District 5 |
General Election Candidate Elizabeth Bonbright, as President of the Tacoma School Board and Immediate Past Chair of the Joint Municipal Action Committee, is leading the work to strengthen inter-governmental collaboration and stimulate innovation to reimagine and create a more economically vibrant, healthy, safe, and anti-racist community. Elizabeth is a national Early Childhood Education policy leader. She spent 22 years as Executive Director of Child Care Aware of Washington building a network of high-quality child care providers and creating a public system to evaluate and ensure affordable, high-quality child care services. Concurrently, she also served for 14 years on the Child Care Aware of America Board of Directors. She earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Trinity College (Hartford, CT) and completed the UW Evans School of Public Policy & Governance Nonprofit Executive Leadership Institute program. |
 Gretchen MaliskaNorth Thurston School District Director District 1 |
General Election Candidate Gretchen Maliska (she/her) has been a strong community leader in education and community. She is currently the Director of Career Connected Learning in the Shelton School District, where she provides opportunities for students to discover their career passion and enter the industry with recognized credentials in vocational disciplines. Growing up in Washington state, Gretchen learned the value of public education through participation in the performing arts, leadership, and much more. In turn, she has devoted herself to giving back to students as an active community volunteer, serving leadership roles in youth sports, multicultural and equity groups, North Thurston School Board, and many more. Gretchen’s life experience with domestic violence and a blended family has helped her lead through multiple lenses. Gretchen believes in celebrating and honoring differences and addressing the individual needs of every child to help them achieve success. |
 Kyle SproulVancouver School District Director Position 1 |
General Election Candidate Kyle is a native Washingtonian and she has lived in Vancouver for 18 years. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Georgetown University and received her Master’s of Business Administration from Indiana University. Kyle is the proud parent of three students in Vancouver Public Schools. She was first drawn to serve on the VPS Board in order to evolve our system so it better supports the needs of our diverse learners and to improve student learning outcomes for all students. Advancing equity remains a primary focus of Kyle’s board work. |
 Tracie BarrowsVancouver School District Director Position 5 |
General Election Candidate Tracie Barrows was elected to the Vancouver Public Schools' Board of Directors in 2019. As a school psychologist for over 15 years, she works in the public school setting each day and understands the realities of education from first-hand experience. Students today are facing increased social-emotional and mental health challenges, and her unique perspective as a school psychologist has been valuable as the school board sets the vision, identifies policies, and budgets resources for the district. In 2022, Tracie initiated and advocated for a policy to implement Trauma-Informed Practices in the schools. During her time on the board, she voted to approve an equity policy, which has served as a foundation in decision-making for programs and resources. Her leadership, experience, and expertise has led to ensuring our schools are becoming more equitable and safe spaces for students so that their comprehensive needs are met so they can access learning and academic progress. |
 Martha WoodardVashon Island School District Director District 3 |
General Election Candidate Martha Woodard moved to the Pacific Northwest in 1975. For thirty -three years she taught a Vashon Island High School, retiring in 2016. Woodard has a B.A. in History from the University of Wisconsin, Madison and an M.A. in History from the University of Washington, Seattle. She always jokes that her meandering through the courses offered as an undergraduate was a positive benefit as it allowed her to be certified to teach art, English and social studies at the secondary level. Woodard has been active politically since high school when she founded a group called Students for Social Justice in 1968. She attended the Democratic convention is Seattle in 1976 as a representative of her precinct of Capitol Hill. From 1975 on, she has been an active union member both in the AFL/CIO Retail Clerks and the local union, Vashon Education Association, as well as Washington Education Association. Woodard advocated for workers' rights which naturally included equal treatment for women. |
 Alayna BrintonWalla Walla School District Director District 4 |
General Election Candidate Mx. Brinton is a dedicated advocate for women's issues and gender equality, with a strong background in women's rights and empowerment. As an elected official, they plan to implement policies promoting gender equity, equal opportunities, and combating gender-based discrimination and violence. Mx. Brinton is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience, serving individuals of all ages in various settings. They founded Anchor Point Counseling PLLC, now the second largest mental health clinic in Walla Walla County, and established Blue Mountain Health Cooperative, redirecting mental health clients to appropriate care. Active in professional organizations, they prioritize advancing the behavioral health field. Mx. Brinton serves on advisory boards and engages in community development initiatives. Outside work, they embrace a self-sustaining lifestyle and enjoy outdoor activities with their family. |
Stephanie Tidholm
Stephanie Scott
Liza Rankin
Debbie Carlsen
Evan Briggs
Gina Topp
Christina Jepperson
Hannah Oliver
JUDICIAL POSITIONS |
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Automatically Elected Judge Coreen Wilson was appointed by the Governor to a seat on the King County Superior Court in 2022. She is now running for election to retain her seat on the bench. Before her judicial appointment, Judge Wilson had more than 22 years of litigation experience, and during our recent pandemic had the distinction of trying the first binding remote jury trial in the country. She speaks extensively through the U.S. on the effective and efficient use of technology in the courtroom and remote litigation, and hopes to work with her judicial colleagues in Washington to make all courts remotely accessible to everyone. She is an instructor with the National Institute of Trial Advocacy and recently taught at NITA’s Women in Trial seminar. |
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General Election Candidate Judge Valerie Bouffiou is the Presiding Judge of Lynnwood Municipal Court. A graduate of the University of Washington and Seattle University School of Law, Judge Bouffiou came to the bench with 8 years of experience as a judge pro tem throughout Snohomish and King County as well as 3 years as an Administrative Law Judge for the State of Washington. Judge Bouffiou served as a board member of the Snohomish County chapter of Washington Women Lawyers planning and participating in events designed to encourage and assist women lawyers and law students. Judge Bouffiou regularly volunteers to speak about her experience as an attorney and judge with community members and students. |
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General Election Candidate Judge Meng Li Che was appointed to fill a vacant position on Washington’s Court of Appeals in 2022. She now stands for election to retain her position. Judge Che grew up in Tacoma as the product of an immigrant family and worked in the family’s restaurant starting in her early childhood. After graduating from the University of San Diego, she returned to Washington and in 2001 earned her law degree at Seattle University School of Law. While Judge Che is also a member of the California Bar, she chose to center her legal career in Washington and spent seven years as a Public Defender in Pierce County before moving on to the Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals where she attained the position of Assistant Chief Industrial Insurance Appeals Judge. There, she presided over issues of workers compensation and workplace safety. She is a member of The Hon. Robert J. Bryan Inn of Court and a Senior Fellow in American Leadership Forum Tacoma Pierce County and a leader in her church. |
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Automatically Elected Judge Sonia Rodriguez True was appointed to the Yakima County Superior Court in 2022. For over two decades, she has centered her legal career in the Yakima Valley and has been a widely recognized volunteer with many community organizations. She served on the Yakima City Council and has been a member of several boards, including Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital, United Way of Central Washington, Yakima Federal Savings & Loan Assn., YMCA and YWCA, Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) and Downtown Rotary. She has received the Governor’s Award of Excellence, Yakima Distinguished Service Award, YWCA Citizen of the Year, Volunteer Attorney Services Volunteer of the Year, Southeast Yakima Community Center Make a Difference Award, MLK Spirit of the Dream Award, Latino Professional Assn. Meritorious Award, Angel in Adoption Award, and Casey Foundation Excellence for Children Leadership Award. She and her husband have opened their home to more than 20 trauma affected children. |
Coreen Wilson
Valerie Bouffiou
Meng Li Che
Sonia Rodriguez True