National Women's Political Caucus of Washington

LEGISLATIVE POSITIONS

Name
Position

CITY POSITIONS

Kate Baldwin
Auburn City Council
Position 2

Kate Baldwin joined Auburn City Council in 2022 to support her neighbors in the aftermath of the Covid pandemic. A strong believer in oversight and engagement, Baldwin chaired the Finance Committee and served on the city’s REDI coalition to support equity initiatives. In addition to Council, Baldwin is a Sr. Advisory Architect, consulting on IT Service Management and ServiceNow software for public/private organizations throughout the Pacific NW. Prior to working in IT, Baldwin trained as a journalist and worked in Idaho as a newspaper reporter covering K-12, regional universities, and state and federal education policies. She then worked with a non-profit helping farmers and ranchers across ID, WA, and OR strengthen their businesses through SBDC-like training programs. Today, Baldwin is an active member of the Auburn Noon Lions. She serves on the E-Board for the 47th District Democrats and remains engaged advocating for food security, reproductive rights, civil rights and the arts.

Hollie Huthman
Bellingham City Council
Ward 2

Hollie Huthman has served on the Bellingham City Council since late 2019 and represents Ward 2. She was inspired to run by the growing housing affordability crisis and a passion for preserving Bellingham's vibrant arts and music culture. As a downtown small business owner, she advocates for a thriving, inclusive city center that benefits residents and visitors alike. She played a key role in establishing the Whatcom Racial Equity Commission and has championed increased funding for affordable housing, social services, and community-driven initiatives. With a background in sociology and criminology, Huthman is committed to policies that foster equity, sustainability, and economic vitality in Bellingham.

Jenne Alderks
Bothell City Council
Position 3

Jenne Alderks has served the city of Bothell in Position 3 since 2022. Jenne and their spouse, Peter, are raising teenagers in Bothell, the community they have called home for the past 15 years. Jenne holds a Masters of Public Administration, a certificate in Public Policy and Leadership from Harvard's Kennedy School of Government and an Advanced Certificate in Municipal Leadership from the Association of Washington Cities. After growing up in Stockton, California, Jenne graduated with degrees in human development and family studies, with emphasis on family-friendly policy (Associates 2003, Bachelors of Science 2005, Masters of Education 2008). Jenne’s family enjoys Irish dancing, hiking, biking, board games, traveling, homeschooling, and volunteering in the community.

Sarah Moore
Burien City Council
Position 5

Sarah Moore is a parent of two grown daughters, a caretaker of cats, snakes, goats and chickens, and the deputy mayor of Burien. A science communicator with a degree in Biology, Sarah been described as the Miss Frizzle of the Burien City Council. Sarah worked at Pacific Science Center developing exhibits, notably the butterfly house, and mentoring teen interns, with a special focus on engaging young women with STEM learning. During the pandemic, Sarah managed an isolation and quarantine facility for folks exposed to covid 19 who lacked secure housing. Having spent her mid-twenties in housing instability, the pandemic highlighted the vulnerability that comes with all kinds of housing insecurity - especially those who are visibly homeless. Sarah is now a coordinator of 600 volunteers for cooperative extension, Deputy Mayor and Chair of Burien's Airport Committee. Sarah uses her position on city council to advocate for families, childcare, parks and open spaces, and equity for all.

Chris Eck
Edmonds City Council
Position 1

Chris Eck lives in Edmonds with her daughter, husband, and fur babies. Her oldest daughter and her family live in Oregon. Chris is the VP of Programs at VOA Western WA while also on Edmonds Council. Elected in 2023 to finish someone's term, she is running for reelection in 2025. Chris previously ran for Lynnwood City Council prior to finding a first single family home in Edmonds. She was a Snohomish Co. Planning Commissioner, was Lynnwood Planning Commission Chair, and an Edmonds Tree Board member. Chris is active in the local Democratic party, and was Chair of the party's County Endorsement Committee in 2024. She was previously at Premera BlueCross, before leaving for the nonprofit sector, starting with Cocoon House. Chris has been a member of NWPC-WA and stood side by side with other members in advocating for women's issues. Chris is an active coach and mentor for other women in her professional life, and is cofounding a group to support diverse and female candidates in Edmonds.

Paula Rhyne
Everett City Council
District 2

Paula Rhyne is a dedicated public servant and passionate advocate for women's rights and equality. Paula has a 20-year work and volunteer history including working for several elected officials at both King County and Snohomish County, and currently serves as an Everett City Councilmember. Paula has a sound educational foundation including a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science and a Masters Degree in Public Administration. As an elected official, Paula has continued to prioritize policies that increase access to child care, expand economic opportunities for women, and provide affordable housing for all. Her unwavering commitment to public service and her tireless efforts to create a more equitable society make her a respected leader and a powerful voice for women in her community and beyond.

Lindsey Walsh
Issaquah Mayor

Lindsey Walsh is the Issaquah Council President, a 20-year small business owner, and mom to 2 teenagers. A dedicated public servant with a proven track record, Lindsey has extensive local expertise and is focused on ensuring a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable future for all residents. In addition to her Council leadership, she serves on the boards of Eastside Fire & Rescue and the King County Affordable Housing Committee. Lindsey’s work on the Puget Sound Regional Council’s Growth Management Policy Board has positioned Issaquah as a key voice in regional planning and development. When not working to ensure Issaquah remains a vibrant, livable community where families can flourish, businesses can thrive, and Issaquah's natural beauty is preserved for future generations, Lindsey enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, and mentoring students at Gibson Ek High School.

Barbara de Michele
Issaquah City Council
Position 3

Barbara de Michele has been a resident of Olde Town in the City of Issaquah for 40 years. Barbara served in the Issaquah School District administration as Communications Director for nine years before joining the King County Department of Transportation Community Relations team, where she retired after 17 years in 2010. She previously served two terms on the Issaquah School Board (1995 to 2003). Barbara was elected to the Issaquah City Council for a two-year term in 2019, and re-elected to a full four-year term in 2021. She campaigned for council on a platform supporting affordable housing, improved transportation options, and increased human services for residents in need. In addition to her seat on the city council, Barbara represents Issaquah on the Eastside Human Services Forum, the Eastside Transportation Partnership, the King County Transit Advisory Committee and the Seattle-King County Board of Health. She is also the current President of the Kiwanis Club of Issaquah.

Hamdi Mohamed
Port of Seattle Commissioner Position 3

Hamdi Mohamed is a results-driven leader with federal and local experience, securing historic investments to strengthen infrastructure, create jobs, and expand economic opportunities. In 2024, she became the first woman of color to serve as Commission President. As Commissioner, she led the passage of a $5.6 billion Capital Improvement Plan, the largest in the Port’s history, to modernize Sea-Tac Airport, enhance maritime facilities, and increase contracting opportunities for small businesses. She doubled investments in workforce development, ensuring more pathways to high-wage jobs, and spearheaded policies to support women-owned enterprises. Committed to protecting fundamental rights, she sponsored legislation prohibiting the Port from assisting out-of-state abortion-related investigations, reinforcing Washington State’s commitment to reproductive healthcare under Governor Jay Inslee’s Directive 22-12.

Toshiko Hasegawa
Port of Seattle Commissioner Position 4

Toshiko Grace Hasegawa is a small business owner and Port of Seattle Commission President. A fourth-generation Japanese American and lifelong Beacon Hill resident, she is the daughter of the labor movement and a descendant of WWII incarcerees. Her passion for public service is driven by a commitment to civil rights and equity. She believes advancing equity, environmental, and economic goals go hand-in-hand, with the Port playing a key role in driving industry advancements that benefit businesses, communities, and the planet. Elected in 2021, Toshiko became the first Asian American woman to serve on the Port Commission in its 110-year history. Previously, she was appointed Executive Director of the WA State Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs, the youngest woman of color to lead a cabinet-level agency. She holds a Master’s degree from Seattle University and lives in Beacon Hill with her husband, Michael, and their two small children.

Melissa Stuart
Redmond City Council
Position 4

Melissa is a respected Redmond City Councilmember, engaged non-profit leader, and stepmom to a very cool young adult. She’s a consistent voice for housing affordability, climate resilience, and strengthening our community. Her neighbors recognize Melissa for her accessibility and preparedness to tackle emerging issues. She holds several leadership positions on boards and committees that advance Redmond’s values at the regional, state, and federal level. She’s known to geek out on all things growth management, housing choice, and the more esoteric data she’s learned since taking office. Melissa served in the U.S. Peace Corps as a Community and Organizational Development Advisor in Moldova. She earned a Masters in Non-Profit Leadership from Seattle University and two bachelors degrees from Washington State University.

Ruth Perez
Renton City Council
Position 6

Ruth Pérez was appointed in 2014 to the Renton City Council, becoming the first Latina and immigrant to ever serve in this body. In 2015, she was elected to complete the term and re-elected in 2017 and 2021. Councilmember Pérez holds a BA in Communications and a Master’s in Business Administration. In 2019, she was unanimously elected by her colleagues to serve as Renton Council President and in 2024 as Council President Pro Tem. During her tenure, she has chaired and served on every council committee. Furthermore, in 2021, she proved her leadership by being elected to be the first female to serve as Chair of the Renton Regional Fire Authority Governance Board. As a councilmember, Ruth focuses on the issues that truly impact Renton residents’ everyday lives and has worked to ensure a strong economy, expand access to affordable housing, tackle our city’s transportation and traffic issues, build inclusive policies, encourage innovation, and balance the municipal budget.

Karen Howe
Sammamish City Council
Position 7

Sammamish Mayor Karen Howe brings over 20 years of leadership and management experience to her role. She is passionate about creating pathways to affordable housing, launching the city's first Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) and climate action plans, implementing an urban forest management plan, and ensuring fiscal sustainability. Karen is deeply involved in various boards, including Eastside Fire & Rescue, King County Emergency Management Advisory Committee, Regional Transit Committee, King County Flood Control District Advisory Committee, Salmon Recovery Council, YMCA Advisory Committee, and she serves as a court-appointed special advocate for children in foster care. Karen believes that everyone deserves a safe, affordable, socially cohesive, inclusive, and sustainable community.

Alexis Mercedes Rinck
Seattle City Council
Position 8

From organizing student marches against the actions of the first Trump Administration, to now chairing a committee focused on federal attacks, Seattle City Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck is a tireless advocate for our communities. Since her election last year, she has been working to ensure that Seattle neighbors have a future with housing affordability regardless of income, communities that are safe for all, fully-funded essential programs, and our rights protected against national attacks. Having witnessed firsthand the difficult circumstances that so many people in our communities are facing today, Alexis fights for progressive change and housing equity because she knows what it is to struggle. A renter, bus commuter, and former waitress, Alexis will continue to ensure Seattle is affordable, safe and welcoming for all when re-elected.

Laura Mork
Shoreline City Council
Position 3

Laura Mork has served four-years on Shoreline City Council, and is currently Deputy Mayor. She is passionate about sustainability, affordability, equity issues, and creating a welcoming community for all. Her successful advocacy for a city grant writer position in 2021 resulted in millions of dollars of additional funding for construction, sustainability, and park projects that will enhance the quality of life in Shoreline. Furthermore, she supported increasing the number of individuals eligible for lower utility rates and more support services for residents, including mental health for seniors. Mork holds a certificate in Municipal Leadership from AWC and serves on county and national committees on infrastructure and sustainability. Prior to being elected to city council in 2021, she served 8 years on the Planning Commission and as an elected wastewater commissioner. She has decades of experience in facilities management in various industries, including Aviation, Steel, and Biotech.

Wendy Carlson
Olympia City Council
Position 7

Wendy is a retired Community Corrections Officer with a strong background in social services, having graduated from Central Washington University in 1993 with a degree in Sociology. Throughout their career, Wendy worked to promote public safety and support individuals within the justice system, gaining valuable experience in advocating for individuals facing significant challenges. While Wendy has never held a political position, they are committed to using their expertise and understanding of community dynamics to advocate for policies that support women and marginalized groups. As an elected official, Wendy plans to focus on addressing key issues such as equal pay, access to affordable childcare, and providing resources for survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse, ensuring that women’s voices are heard and their needs are met in all areas of public policy.

Michelle Evans
Woodinville City Council
Position 1

Michelle Evans is a dedicated leader, strategic thinker, and advocate for equity, serving on the Woodinville City Council. With a background in business administration and 20+ years of experience in marketing and program management, she has led global initiatives focused on leadership development, inclusion, and operational excellence. As a councilmember, Michelle champions affordable housing, pay equity, and policies that uplift women and families. She played a key role in hiring Woodinville’s first Community Engagement Coordinator to deepen ties with underrepresented communities and has consistently worked to amplify women’s voices in local government. Michelle is committed to creating a more inclusive, thriving Woodinville where all residents—regardless of gender or background—can succeed.

Sarah Arndt
Woodinville City Council
Position 5

Sarah Arndt's commitment to community is evident in every step of her journey. Alongside her academic pursuits, including a master's in teaching from Western Illinois University and a PhD in History from Trinity College Dublin, she has dedicated herself to education and public service. Sarah's transition from teaching history to administrative roles in non-profits demonstrates her dedication to making a positive impact. Her work with a Seattle area non-profit has underscored the importance of community involvement and how a vibrant local environment contributes to everyone's quality of life. Elected to the Woodinville City Council in November 2021, Sarah's leadership extends beyond her home city. As a councilmember, Sarah represents the city on multiple committees and works as the Senior Manager at the North Urban Human Services Alliance.

Whitney Stevens
Tacoma Mayor

Whitney Stevens is a small business owner, community volunteer, and local government nerd. Whitney’s love of Tacoma started when she attended UWT. After graduating she worked on various community projects before eventually working in County government. Most recently, Whitney founded The Viability Project, a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to helping women and underrepresented candidates navigate the complexities of running for political office. If elected, Whitney’s primary initiatives will be increasing summer childcare, rebuilding trust in law enforcement, and combatting Project 2025. She lives in Tacoma with her 2 kids, Theo and Nellie, husband Matt, and 2 rescue cats. Whitney also serves as Chair of the 27th LD Dems. When not doing political things, she can be found with her family or in the garden.

Melissa Beaton
Mount Vernon City Council Ward 3 Postion 2

Melissa is a public servant at heart beginning her legal career while in high school. For the past 3 decades she has worked for the Skagit County Superior Court judges, as County Clerk and on Mount Vernon City Council. She continues to work toward equal access to the legal system and as a policymaker for Mount Vernon. In her role on Council, she has enjoyed working together to solve complex issues including affordable housing and outreach services for the unhoused. With a 3rd term on City Council she hopes to continue to support all members of her community. She is proud to be part of leadership that brought the Mount Vernon Library Commons to the City with no new local taxes. The MVLC is a multi-use infrastructure project located in historic Mount Vernon that combines several needs of the community including public library services, community center space, a commercial kitchen, and structured parking with the largest EV charging center in the USA.

COUNTY POSITIONS

Claudia Balducci
King County Executive

Addressing domestic violence and sexual abuse has been a priority area of focus for me. I have consistently advocated for survivors and worked closely with organizations that provide direct support. These long-standing partnerships have given me a deep understanding of both the progress we’ve made and the critical gaps that remain. The county plays a vital role in responding to gender-based and domestic violence through the criminal justice system. It has taken years of effort to push the system to take these issues seriously, and we cannot afford to move backward. Unfortunately, support and funding for survivor services — as highlighted by organizations like KCSARC — have declined rather than increased. This trend must be reversed. I have been able to secure funding to help backfill some of the loss, but threats to these programs continue with budget challenges at every level of government. I am committed to securing sustainable funding for survivor support services to ensure they are not the first to be cut when budgets tighten. This work is not just about response but also prevention. We need to invest in programs that promote stability and well-being, addressing the root causes of violence before it happens. I have a concrete plan to stabilize and strengthen funding for these essential services, making it a priority to ensure resources are both adequate and reliable. I am proud to have the endorsements of leaders like Mary Ellen Stone and Dennis Higgins, who share my commitment to protecting survivors and preventing violence. Together, we can build a safer, more supportive community where no one is left to face these challenges alone.

Sarah Perry
King County Council
District 3

Sarah is a King County Councilmember, former small business owner, and seasoned executive in the non-profit and government sectors. As an enthusiastic coalition builder, she is known for her expertise in creating strong foundations of civic collaboration and engagement to build progress in communities both locally and throughout the region. As our County Councilmember, Sarah works for safe and healthy communities, well maintained roads and bridges, environmental sustainability, housing of all types for all income levels, and business owners, farmers and their employees. She lives in Issaquah, WA with her husband, Senator Bill Ramos, and their dog, Sadie.

Kaylee Galloway
Whatcom County Council
District 1

Kaylee Galloway currently serves on the Whatcom County Council representing District 1 and was elected Council Chair in 2025. She represents the Council on the Lake Whatcom Policy Group, Climate Impact Advisory Committee, Council of Governments, Marine Resources Committee, Opportunity Council, Racial Equity Commission, Whatcom County Tourism Board, and Washington State Association of Counties. Her main policy interests are economic and workforce development, climate resilience, housing and homelessness, and public safety/criminal justice reform. Kaylee has spent the last decade serving her community at all levels of government having worked for the U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives, and WA State House of Representatives. In addition, she is a small business owner consultant working with the Regional Fisheries Coalition and the Washington State Academy of Sciences. In her free time, Kaylee enjoys playing soccer, gardening, hiking, and spending time with her friends and family.

SCHOOL BOARD POSITIONS

Name
Position

JUDICIAL POSITIONS

Valerie Bouffiou
Lynnwood Municipal Court Judge

Judge Valerie Bouffiou is honored to serve as the Presiding Judge of Lynnwood Municipal Court. A graduate of the University of Washington and Seattle University School of Law, she brings over a decade of judicial experience, including eight years as a judge pro tem in Snohomish and King County and three years as an Administrative Law Judge for the State of Washington. Beyond the bench, Judge Bouffiou is committed to service and mentorship. She previously served on the board of the Snohomish County chapter of Washington Women Lawyers, supporting women in the legal field. As a member of the Lynnwood Rotary, she helps provide scholarships for local students. She also volunteers her time speaking with students, legislators, and community members about her experiences in law. Judge Bouffiou remains dedicated to fairness, integrity, and community engagement, ensuring the Lynnwood Municipal Court upholds justice with professionalism and compassion.

Jessica Giner
Renton Municipal Court Judge
Position 1

Judge Jessica Giner has served as a Renton Municipal Court Judge since 2021. She has been rated “Exceptionally Well Qualified” by the King County Bar Association and earned top ratings from six minority bar associations. During her tenure in the Renton Court, Judge Giner has worked to address mental health issues in the criminal justice system by creating Renton’s first Mental Health Court and by serving on a statewide committee that oversees access to services to restore mental health competency. She has also devoted time to working with Renton's youth. She created the Youth Traffic Court program in Renton which facilitates peer education and an appreciation of consequences for teen drivers. Judge Giner is also an active volunteer with other important programs designed to improve knowledge of our court system and other branches of government -- the YMCA Mock Trial Program, “We the People Youth in Government,” “Judges in the Classroom”, and the Constitution Day civics learning program.

Jennifer Slattery
Whatcom County Superior Court Judge
Position 5

Judge Jennifer Slattery joined Washington’s judiciary in the summer of 2024 and now stands for election to retain her seat on the Whatcom County Superior Court bench. A graduate of the University of Washington and Seattle University School of Law, Judge Slattery brings a wealth of litigation experience to the bench after 16 years practicing in the fields of family law and criminal defense. For the past seven years, Judge Slattery had her own successful practice in Bellingham where the complex and demanding issues around family law were her primary focus. Her experience in that field has been welcomed on the Superior Court bench. Judge Slattery has also distinguished herself as a community leader. She has served as Past President of the Whatcom County Bar Association, Bellingham Sunrise Rotary, and the Whatcom County Chapter of Washington Women Lawyers. She has also been a member of the Board of the Whatcom Community College Foundation for the past six years.