Washington gubernatorial election, 2024 (August 6 top-two primary)

Washington 2024 elections

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<- 2020

Governor of Washington

Top-two primary
General election

Election details
Filing deadline: May 10, 2024
Primary: August 6, 2024
General: November 5, 2024

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Pre-election incumbent(s):
Jay Inslee (Democratic)
How to vote
Poll times: Poll opening hours vary; close at 8 p.m.
Voting in Washington
Ballotpedia analysis
Federal and state primary competitiveness
State executive elections in 2024
Impact of term limits in 2024
State government trifectas
State government triplexes
Ballotpedia's Election Analysis Hub, 2024
Washington
executive elections
Governor

Lieutenant Governor
Attorney General
Secretary of State
Auditor
Treasurer
Superintendent of Public Instruction
Public Lands Commissioner
Insurance Commissioner

Bob Ferguson (D) and Dave Reichert (R) advanced from the top-two primary for governor of Washington on August 6, 2024. The general election was held on November 5, 2024. Twenty-eight candidates ran in the primary. Ferguson, Reichert, Semi Bird (R), and Mark Mullet (D) received the most media attention and endorsements.

Incumbent Jay Inslee (D) did not run for re-election.

Ferguson, the state attorney general, received endorsements from state Democrats, including incumbent governor Inslee.[1] Jerry Cornfield, of the Washington State Standard, said, "For years, Ferguson has been widely viewed as the next Democrat in line for the job after Gov. Jay Inslee."[2] The Seattle Times' Jim Brunner and Claire Withycombe wrote, "Ferguson is generally reluctant to fault Inslee’s policies or management but has made some failings of state agencies — specifically the ferry system — a part of his stump speech."[1]

According to Brunner and Withycombe, State Senator Mullet casted himself as the "common sense alternative who can attract a winning bloc of moderate and independent voters."[1] Mullet said Inslee and the Democratic majority had overreached on taxes. He also voted against a Democratic-led payroll tax for long-term care and a capital gains tax.[1][3]

According to Politico, Reichert, former representative of Washington's 8th Congressional District, was ranked as one of the most bipartisan members during his time in the U.S. House. He at times voted opposite his party, for example, voting to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" in the military and voting against repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act.[4][5]

Running to the right of Reichert was Bird. Bird was elected to the Richland School District school board in 2021 as part of a conservative slate of candidates who campaigned against mask mandates, COVID vaccines, and alleged teaching of critical race theory. Voters recalled Bird and two others from the school board in 2023.[6] Click here to learn more.

Democrats claimed Reichert would limit access to abortion in Washington. Reichert said he would uphold the state's abortion law.[7] Democrats also tried to link Reichert with former President Donald Trump (R). Reichert did not publicly state whether he would endorse or vote for Trump.[8]

Both Reichert and Bird positioned themselves opposite of Democrats. They emphasized "a shift away from tax increases and climate regulations" and called for "get-tough approaches on homeless encampments, drugs and crime."[9]

A Republican last won election as Washington's governor in 1980.[5] As of June 18, 2024, The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter rated the general election Lean Democratic, while Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales and Larry J. Sabato's Crystal Ball rated it Likely Democratic.

Twenty-four other candidates also ran in the primary.

Ricky Anthony (D), Semi Bird (R), Brian Bogen (No party preference), Edward Cale (D), Jim Clark (No party preference), William Combs (Independent Party), Michael DePaula (L), Fred Grant (D), Jennifer Hoover (R), Chaytan Inman (D), EL'ona Kearney (D), Leon Lawson (Trump Republican Party), Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters Party), Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence Party), Mark Mullet (D), Dave Reichert (R), Don Rivers (D), Andre Stackhouse (G), and Bobbie Samons (No party preference) completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. To read those survey responses, click here.

This page focuses on Washington's top-two gubernatorial primary. For more in-depth information on Washington's gubernatorial general election, see the following page:

* Washington gubernatorial election, 2024

## Contents

* 1 Election news
* 2 Candidates and election results
* 3 Voting information
* 4 Candidate comparison
* 4.1 Candidate profiles
* 4.2 Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses
* 4.3 Campaign ads
* 4.3.1 Semi Bird
* 4.3.2 Bob Ferguson
* 4.3.3 Mark Mullet
* 4.3.4 Dave Reichert
* 4.4 Debates and forums
* 4.4.1 July 7, 2024, candidate forum
* 5 Noteworthy endorsements
* 6 Election competitiveness
* 6.1 Polls
* 6.2 Race ratings
* 7 Election spending
* 7.1 Campaign finance
* 7.2 Satellite spending
* 7.2.1 Spending news
* 8 Election analysis
* 8.1 Cook PVI by congressional district
* 8.2 2020 presidential results by 2024 congressional district lines
* 8.3 2012-2020
* 8.4 Historical voting trends
* 8.5 U.S. Senate elections
* 8.6 Gubernatorial elections
* 8.7 Congressional delegation
* 8.8 State executive
* 8.9 State legislature
* 8.9.1 Washington State Senate
* 8.9.2 Washington House of Representatives
* 8.10 Trifecta control
* 9 Election context
* 9.1 Ballot access requirements
* 9.2 For write-in candidates
* 9.3 Washington gubernatorial election history
* 9.3.1 2020
* 9.3.2 2016
* 9.3.3 2012
* 9.3.4 Earlier results
* 10 State profile
* 10.1 Presidential voting pattern
* 10.1.1 Pivot Counties (2016)
* 10.1.2 Pivot Counties (2020)
* 11 2024 battleground elections
* 12 See also
* 13 External links
* 14 Footnotes

## Election news[edit]

This section includes a timeline of events leading up to the election.

* Election news (April-July 2024)

* July 31, 2024: KIRO 7 interviewed Bird, Ferguson, Mullet, and Reichert on their proposals for handling homelessness and drug addiction treatment.[10]
* July 29, 2024: The Seattle Times interviewed Bird, Ferguson, Mullet, and Reichert on the following education topics: state-funded education, student mental health, school safety, child care, and college attendance rates.[11]
* July 16, 2024: SurveyUSA released a poll of 564 likely voters showing Ferguson at 42%, Reichert at 33%, Bird at 7%, Mullet at 4%, and 14% undecided. The margin of error was ± 5.2 percentage points.[12]
* July 7, 2024: KOMO News released a town hall, interviewing Bird, Ferguson, Mullet, and Reichert separately.[13]
* May 24, 2024: Cascade PBS/Elway released a poll of 403 registered voters showing Ferguson at 22%, Reichert at 20%, Mullet at 6%, Bird at 5%, and 47% undecided. The margin of error was ± 5.0 percentage points.[14]
* May 10, 2024: The final deadline passed.
* April 15, 2024: Coalition for Pragmatic Leadership spent $843,700 on TV ads in support of Mullet.[15]
* April 2024: Concerned Taxpayers Accountability Center spent $1,286.59 on a website and post cards in opposition to Bird.[16]

## Candidates and election results[edit]

#### Nonpartisan primary election

##### Nonpartisan primary for Governor of Washington

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

| Bob Ferguson (D) |

44.9

| 884,268

| Dave Reichert (R) |

27.5

| 541,533

| Semi Bird (R) |

10.8

| 212,692

| Mark Mullet (D) |

6.0

| 119,048

| Leon Lawson (Trump Republican Party) |

1.8

| 35,971

Submit photo

| Jim Daniel (R) |

1.5

| 29,907

Submit photo

| Cassondra Hanson (D) |

1.2

| 24,512

| EL'ona Kearney (D) |

1.2

| 24,374

| Jennifer Hoover (R) |

0.8

| 15,692

| Andre Stackhouse (G) |

0.6

| 11,962

| Don Rivers (D) |

0.5

| 9,453

Submit photo

| Martin Wheeler (R) |

0.4

| 7,676

| Chaytan Inman (D) |

0.3

| 6,427

| Ricky Anthony (D) |

0.3

| 6,226

Submit photo

| Jeff Curry (Independent Party) |

0.3

| 6,068

| Fred Grant (D) |

0.3

| 5,503

| Brian Bogen (No party preference) |

0.2

| 4,530

| A.L. Brown (R) |

0.2

| 4,232

| Michael DePaula (L) |

0.2

| 3,957

| Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence Party) |

0.2

| 2,960

| Jim Clark (No party preference) |

0.1

| 2,355

Submit photo

| Edward Cale (D) |

0.1

| 1,975

| Alex Tsimerman (Standup-America Party) |

0.1

| 1,721

| Bill Hirt (R) |

0.1

| 1,720

Submit photo

| Frank Dare (Independent Party) |

0.1

| 1,115

| Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters Party) |

0.1

| 1,106

| William Combs (Independent Party) |

0.1

| 1,042

Submit photo

| Brad Mjelde (No party preference) |

0.1

| 991

| Ambra Mason (Constitution Party) (Write-in) |

0.0

| 0

Submit photo

| Bobbie Samons (No party preference) (Write-in) |

0.0

| 0
|  | Other/Write-in votes|

0.1

| 1,347

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 1,970,363

|
|

= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

#### Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

* Geoff Nelson (Constitution Party)
* Tony Tasmaly (R)
* Robert Arthur Ferguson (D)
* Kriss Schuler (R)
* Eric Nelson (No party preference)
* Robert Benjamin Ferguson (D)
* Reggie Grant (D)
* Laurel Khan (R)
* Daniel Miller (R)
* Hilary Franz (D)
* Raul Garcia (R)
* Tim Ford (R)

## Voting information[edit]

See also: Voting in Washington

Election information in Washington: Aug. 6, 2024, election.

What was the voter registration deadline?

* In-person: Aug. 6, 2024
* By mail: Received by July 29, 2024
* Online: July 29, 2024

Was absentee/mail-in voting available to all voters?

N/A

What was the absentee/mail-in ballot request deadline?

* In-person: N/A
* By mail: N/A by N/A
* Online: N/A

What was the absentee/mail-in ballot return deadline?

* In-person: Aug. 6, 2024
* By mail: Postmarked by Aug. 6, 2024

Was early voting available to all voters?

N/A

What were the early voting start and end dates?

July 19, 2024 to Aug. 6, 2024

Were all voters required to present ID at the polls? If so, was a photo or non-photo ID required?

N/A

When were polls open on Election Day?

N/A

## Candidate comparison[edit]

### Candidate profiles[edit]

This section includes candidate profiles that may be created in one of two ways: either the candidate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey, or Ballotpedia staff may compile a profile based on campaign websites, advertisements, and public statements after identifying the candidate as noteworthy. For more on how we select candidates to include, click here.

Ricky Anthony

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "Meet Ricky Anthony, a native of Washington and a seasoned military veteran. Born in Detroit and raised in Lakewood, Washington, Ricky's journey is one of dedication, selfless service, and a deep commitment to his country and community. His formative years were spent in the sphere of sports, where he honed his values of teamwork, discipline, and commitment. These values propelled him to graduate from Steilacoom High School and earn a college football scholarship. However, a physical injury may have altered his path, but it didn't dampen his spirit of service. Instead, it led him to a new arena—joining the Army. Ricky enlisted in the Army in 2003, and honorably retired at 41 years old in July 2023. Prior to retirement, he was selected to serve in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Forces Integration Unit in Budapest, Hungary, as the Operations Staff Assistant focused on the eastern flank of the United States European Command (EUCOM) Area of Responsibility (AOR), and undertook liaison responsibilities to the U.S. Embassy. Ricky was selected to serve as the Administrative Technician for the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) in Hanoi, S.R. Vietnam, where he liaised with the U.S. Embassy for interagency engagements. Master of Science in Homeland Security & Emergency Services Management - grad date June 2024 Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration"

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Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

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Lived Experience

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Learned Experience

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Efficient Administration

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Semi Bird

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "Semi Bird has spent most of his life in service to his nation. He served two active-duty enlistments in the United States Marine Corps, earning the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. 16 years later after the attacks on 9/11/2001, Semi volunteered to become an Army Special Forces Green Beret at age 43. He received the Bronze Star Valor, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, and numerous medals of commendation and achievement for his combat service. Semi left active duty and volunteered for service in the Washington State Army National Guard where he deployed multiple times in support of Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. He took a leadership position with the United States Department of Energy where he served as a Federal Director and later retired as the Director of Training and Leadership Development. He became the Associate Director of Professional Development and Community Education at Washington State University before becoming a Behavioral Scientist and Business Consultant specializing in performance improvement and leadership development. Semi holds a BS in Business Administration summa cum laude, MS in Human Resource Development (PHR), and is completing his PhD. In Organizational Psychology. He holds multiple post graduate certifications. "

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Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

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Semi is a candidate who believes in putting people over politics. A candidate of the people, by the people and for the people. ALL of the people

* * *

He has the knowledge, skills, and abilities to bring real solutions with action to address the out-of-control homelessness, lawlessness, and breakdown of our economy and public education system.

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We will usher in a new era of grown and prosperity for our beautiful state and its citizens by supporting small business growth, lower taxes, job creation, and neighborhood revitalization.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Brian Bogen

Party: No party preference

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "Brian Bogen is a small-business owner with multiple businesses across the northwest. He is an Eagle Scout and recipient of the Silver Beaver Award for distinguished service to the Chief Seattle Council of the Boy Scouts of America. He is a board member of the Chief Seattle Council and is a former board member of Long Live the Kings, a non-profit supporting wild salmon restoration and sustainable fishing. He helped secure $30 million for a theater in Seattle and served on the ACT Theater Board. He also served as a councilmember for the Town of Woodway, where he was first appointed and then elected to the office. Brian holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Washington and attended the Albers Graduate School of Business and Economics at Seattle University as well as the Senior Executive Program of Stanford University. Brian and his wife Lisa split their time between Shoreline and Cle Elum and have three children: Danny, a Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps; Lucy, a junior at the University of Oregon; and Shelby, a freshman at Oregon State University."

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Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

Brian knows public safety is at the core of strong communities that are great places to raise a family, own a business and build an economy that works for everyone. The top priority of government is the protection of its people. If people don’t feel safe in their communities, businesses or walking to school, nothing else matters.

* * *

Brian's focus is on transforming education to ensure every student succeeds. He believes in diving deeper into K-12 funding to improve student outcomes, taking immediate action in low-performing districts, and allocating funds to boost educational attainment and reduce dropout rates. Brian prioritizes spending on students over administrators and supports school choice and Career and Technical Education to cater to diverse learning needs. He advocates for accountability with one central agency overseeing school performance and the State Auditor reviewing district spending. Brian is committed to robust educational funding with a focus on results, setting clear goals, and taking decisive action to prepare all students for their futures.

* * *

Brian is committed to responsible financial management for Washington State. He opposes the practice of using volatile or one-time funds for ongoing expenses, which risks cuts to essential services or higher taxes. He believes lawmakers must accept the shortcomings of the capital gains excise tax and the Climate Commitment Act, both of which fall short in funding promises while increasing costs for taxpayers. Brian advocates for a budget that reflects shared values, prioritizing the environment, public safety, education, housing, and support for the vulnerable. He believes in crafting a sustainable budget that ensures long-term stability and prosperity for all Washingtonians.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Edward Cale

Do you have a photo that could go here? Click here to submit it for this profile!

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "I am someone who represents the people fairly and equally. I plan to roll out the Freedom Project for all residents of Washington to vote and participate in government at all levels of city, county, and state."

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Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

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I will correct the oppression that is unjust, unequal and unfair, and unconstitutional.

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I will bring prosperity to all who reside in Washington with everyone's help.

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I will correct the corruption in government and in our society.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Jim Clark

Party: No party preference

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "I have lived in Lake Stevens, Washington for over 18 years and firmly believe that Washington is one of the best states in the country. I am running for Governor to highlight the need for family court reform so that Washington is a better place to live for all families. One of the biggest problems in Washington State is the lack of child custody and support protections that has resulted in a 'F' rating by National Parents Organization. Like many parents, I did not understand how unfairly parents are treated within the biased family court system until I filed for divorce. As an honorably discharged U.S. Army infantry soldier with no criminal record and who had been the stay-at-home parent starting from when my daughter was 3 months old, I expected a collaborative divorce with a 50/50 plan and the sharing of child support (residential credit). What happened instead was a 12-year struggle in which every court commissioner and judge at every local, state, and federal level refused parental equality. Four years ago I began to volunteer for National Parents Organization to help reform the family law system in Washington State. Last year I served on the 2023 Child Support Workgroup to help make recommendations to the Washington legislature to improve child support. A top priority of the next governor should be to enact a Shared Parenting Bill of Rights to reform our failing court system to benefit children."

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Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

A Shared Parenting Bill of Rights first and foremost reforms our family law courts to protect the rights of all fit, willing, and able parents to have the default presumption of equal shared custody. The benefits of 50/50 shared parenting for children are well documented by decades of scientific research and apply to even high conflict separations and divorces. Five states (have already done so with very positive results.

* * *

Child support reforms are needed to automatically share money between parental homes that share custody (Residential Credit). This ensures that child support equally protects children in both parental homes and that payments are more equitable and predictable, which in turn will reduce conflict. Currently, even in the families that already share custody 50/50, child support is shared in only one out of four cases.

* * *

Washington State needs to reform court funding and staffing levels so that justice is speedy and cases are not unnecessarily delayed. Regardless of whether an innocent parent needs custody restored or a guilty parent needs custody removed, delays in the court system hurt children and should not drag on while children grow up.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

William Combs

Party: Independent Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "I am a Naval Veteran and formerly homeless. I currently reside in Dayton Wa where I use my free time helping the community through community service after providing long term in home care for my father who passed away in 2018 after suffer a massive stroke. "

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Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

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Our energy policies are antiquated and will be updated to 21st Century standards by using modern technology and ideas. We cannot solve the energy deficit by turning off the gas.

* * *

Washington State needs to begin producing more of it's food locally by increasing the amount of livestock raised and growing more food using locally sourced greenhouses and hydroponic farms. Importing our food from outside the US using a very fragile and price sensitive oil makes us less secure during times of crisis.

* * *

The homeless problem cannot be solved by ignoring it. Offering services to homeless after they have completed many hours of community service showing they really want the help is the first step in dealing with the problem.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Michael DePaula

Party: Libertarian Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "Michael graduated from the University of Southern California in 2000 with a degree in music performance on the French horn. While working as a freelance musician and English teacher in both Hawaii and Nagoya (Japan), Michael taught himself computer science and transitioned to IT work in 2005 where he was employed as an independent contractor with a branch of the Department of Defense in Okinawa (Japan). In 2013, he moved to Tokyo to take a position with Facebook (Meta), later transferring with the company to Seattle where he currently leads the Enterprise Engineering Field Operations team for the Pacific Northwest. He enjoys photography, hiking, coffee, writing, and sailing. Michael lives aboard his ketch-rigged sailboat with his wife and three sons in Seattle."

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Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

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Reduction in Washington's debt burden to position the state favorably for the loomng recession.

* * *

Fortifying citizen self-defense, community readiness, and emergency preparations for potential municipal failures as the national debt crisis widens.

* * *

Privatization of key industries to reduce the state budget per item #1 ensuring service continuity.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Bob Ferguson

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office:

* Attorney General of Washington (Assumed office: 2013)
* King County Council (2003-2013)

Biography: Ferguson received a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Washington in 1989 and a J.D. from New York University School of Law in 1995. He was a lawyer at Preston, Gates, and Ellis, later known as K&L Gates.

* * *

Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.

* * *

Ferguson highlighted his success as attorney general. He said he defeated the Trump administration 50 times in court "on cases ranging from voting rights and gun responsibility to reproductive freedom."

* * *

Speaking on the Supreme Court's decision to preserve access to mifepristone, Ferguson said, "This attack on reproductive freedom failed, but there are more coming. Anti-choice Republican Dave Reichert voted for a nationwide abortion ban that would have instituted criminal penalties against doctors. I will always fight for access to safe, effective abortions."

* * *

Ferguson said he would do the following to improve public safety: increase the number of law enforcement officials; implement a fentanyl crisis response plan; combat gun violence and mass shootings; arrest individuals with active warrants when they violate the terms of their community custody; equip law enforcement with improved technology and data; and invest in youth intervention strategies.

* * *

Show sources

Sources: Bob Ferguson Democrat for Governor, "About," accessed June 17, 2024, X, "Bob Ferguson," June 13, 2024, Bob Ferguson Democrat for Governor, "Public Safety," accessed June 17, 2024; University of Washington, "Bob Ferguson," accessed June 17, 2024

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Fred Grant

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "Fred Grant, a distinguished mass media and communications professional, is running for governor of Washington State. His lineage boasts a heritage deeply intertwined with Washington’s past—his great-great-grandfather served as the Editor-in-Chief of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, a prominent member of the inaugural Washington State legislature, and an esteemed envoy to Bolivia under President Benjamin Harrison. Driven by a passionate belief in amplifying the voice of his generation, Fred seeks to unite a divided nation and honor his family’s legacy by leading with strength, innovation, and a commitment to unifying a state that holds both his heritage and his aspirations. Join Fred Grant on a transformative journey towards a united and empowered Washington State."

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Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

More than one-in-three American labor force participants (35%) are Millennials, making them the largest generation in the U.S. labor force. However, Millennials are severely under-represented in our government.

* * *

As a candidate for governor of the state of Washington, I want to bring fresh and new ideas to our government and solve problems by thinking outside of the box. I will work to create a government that is more transparent, accountable, and efficient.

* * *

I am committed to making Washington a great place to live, work, and raise a family. My vision is to make Washington a leading state for other states to follow its example.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Jennifer Hoover

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "My name is Jennifer Hoover, and I'm running for Governor because I love Washington State! I care deeply about preserving the protection and rights of all Washingtonians in our beautiful Evergreen state. This is my home, where I was born and raised. But the Washington that I grew up in as a child is not the same as it used to be. With homelessness on the rise, the cost of living, inflation, and crime rates rising over 56% over the past few years, the time to act is NOW. Washington is not going to be the same if we don't start building better policies that protect our citizens, keeping us safer and empowering us to succeed! All Washingtonians deserve to get ahead in life, while feeling less vulnerable on our streets. I believe in Affordable housing for everyone! And as a community activist, I have worked hard to make our streets safer, helped to reduce taxes, and fought against pornographic reading material in our public schools. I collaborated with local legislators and transportation departments to reduce traffic accidents by changing the snow plow activation mandate from 4 inches to 2 inches. This has helped decrease snow and ice buildup and significantly reduce driving hazards, especially on steep hills. When the state claimed there was, "No budget for snow plows", I made sure to demand change (that should have come from our marijuana money), and the snow plows were out the next morning, proving that we did have it in our budget all along."

* * *

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

As someone who absolutely loves our senior Veterans, it broke my heart to meet several homeless Veterans who laid down their lives for our country, just to be without a home! I have a passionate heart to look out for the most optimum living for our Veterans. I intend to make sure every Veteran receives comfort, care, and most of all, affordable housing! I also advocated for more accessible property tax information for seniors who are not online and may struggle with complex processes. As a result, the Treasury's office agreed to create clearer materials, helping many elderly families understand and potentially reduce their high property taxes for the first time. And it worked I helped several families reduce their property taxes!

* * *

In my role as a local leader and counselor, I have stood up for innocent victims of harassment, ensuring that those who use their power to oppress others through fear and intimidation are held accountable and removed from their positions. I will continue to fight for justice and stand up against bullying. I have a wonderful plan for anti-bullying programs for all schools and believe that there should be special care for those who are most vulnerable. I would like to target the prevention of bullying of students in order to avoid depression and suicide, reducing (the number one reason for death among 14-year-olds in our society today).

* * *

All Washingtonians deserve to get ahead in life, while feeling less vulnerable on our streets. Creating a better economy and safer neighborhoods is a must for me. I know we can do better, as so many people simply want to spend more quality time with loved ones and families.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Chaytan Inman

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "We live in a broken system. Washington is on fire: droughts, severe heat waves, and wildfires are ravaging our state and our lives. The machine is going up in smoke, we breathe it every summer. It's become a fact we cannot ignore and that none of our technology or laws have begun to fix. Capitalism makes us consume more and more. It powers an economy designed to destroy our own homes. Unmitigated capitalism has brought unmitigated disasters of wildfire, drought, poverty, melting glaciers, and rising seas. The system must change and change now it will. We will change the system to give back and tend the Earth when we take from it. We will hold the technocratic elite accountable for the destruction consumerism causes. We will create a society that prospers now and in the future. We're taking control of the future now. My name is Chaytan. I love clean air, cold water, rain, trees, and humanity. But we're destroying ourselves and only a new system can change that."

* * *

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

Self-Sustaining Washington

* * *

Resilient Washington

* * *

Educated Washington

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

EL'ona Kearney

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "My life story is one of resilience, advocacy, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by everyday Washingtonians. I was a single mother who experienced homelessness, a veteran, the wife of a union worker, and a small business owner. Born to a Christian pastor mother and a Jewish father, I grew up as the oldest of five, instilling in me the values of resilience, quick learning, and determination from an early age. I've led a nonprofit teaching youth to write and speak on legislative bills, lobbied for college building funding, and presented a bill proposal. Beyond politics, I am an author, business owner, and proud Evergreen graduate who enjoys singing, dancing, painting, and good times with good people. I recognize politics' divisive role in capitalizing on stereotypes to create divisions. Despite my challenging upbringing and living in difficult circumstances, I've broken cycles to be more than a statistic or stereotype. I'm running because I believe in the power of advocacy, both personally and politically, which is why my motto is, "I'm not running; we are running for governor.""

* * *

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

Community-Driven Leadership: I believe in prioritizing the diverse voices and concerns of Washingtonians, making sure every community has a seat at the table in the decision-making process. When we support the communities, their skills, and the diversity they offer rather than forcing everyone to be the same, we can rebuild our foundation.

* * *

Removing Labels: Labels have a dehumanizing effect, and it's crucial to eliminate stereotypes that create divisions within our communities. My mission is to celebrate diversity and foster unity, transcending the confines of data and statistics to gain a profound understanding of the distinct needs in every community. Recognizing that there's no one-size-fits-all solution, we must ensure that every voice is heard, enabling us to bridge the gaps in needs and equity. This allows everyone to pursue the American dream, without instilling fear of taking from one group to benefit another.moving Labels-Seeing people beyond stereotypes & data, addressing needs

* * *

Advocacy and Unity: I believe in the power of advocacy. It allows people to survive unsurvivable situations. I understand it both personally and politically. I aim to bring about positive change that unites communities to work together for the betterment of Washington State.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Leon Lawson

Party: Trump Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "Trump Republican MAGA party, A political street fighter, anti bureaucratic, small town, common sense conservative values, BUILD THE WALL , Make America Great Again, restore the constitution, end political corruption, A REAL OUTSIDER THAT WILL BRING REAL CHANGE TO WASHINGTON, THINK FOR YOURSELF WWG1WGA"

* * *

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

RESTORE WASHINGTON

* * *

IMMIGRATION REFORM SLASH REGULATIONS.

* * *

REIGN IN AGENCY DEFERENCE OVER INTERPRETATION OF LAW AND CODIFACATION.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Alan Makayev

Party: Nonsense Busters Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "Alan Makayev is rather extraordinary, because he liked to study a lot when he was younger. He graduated from secondary school with gold-medal for excellence in studies, then entered medical school and graduated with honors physician diploma (equivalent of MD) . Dissatisfied with ineffectiveness of medical treatments, he wanted to find better options and started looking into studying Oriental and naturopathic medicine. In the meantime he enrolled in 3 other universities studying mostly English and a little Chinese. He graduated from one with excellence, didn't finish the other two because he moved to the US. He only had $200 on him upon arrival and so that wouldn't cover any education. He needed to earn some money and started doing construction. His bossees suggested that he do real estate. He bought, cleaned up, renovated, managed & sold several dozens of properties & created multimillion dollar portfolio. Since he did not have much money at the start, he would buy the worst fixers and turn them into candies by doing a lot of labor himself. He learned how to do everything in the house and to this day he likes hands on approach if he can afford the time. About 10 years ago a strange event happened where like a lightning has pierced his head and it changed the way he thought and understood things. He saw diseases, crime in different way. Some sort of philosophy kind of downloaded and he later wrote a little booklet about it. He thinks education is paramount."

* * *

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

The ultimate goal is to have free healthcare at no extra cost. At a minimum there should be plentyfull alternative healthcare options that are cheap and/or donation based; preventive and prophylactic medicine established. He will introduce a comprehensive education reform. The emphasiss should be on the up-bringing of children and their education from the kindergarden. There should be education about family life and trades should be taught in later schooling years. Radio and television would be producing more educational material throughout the week for children and adults alike. The best and the brightest would be sought out and brought forward for teaching and other kind of work. There will be NO MORE NONSENSE anywhere in the state.

* * *

Crime and lawlessness, like anything else, is a multifaceted problem, some of it is visible and some is not. 1\. On one hand, the situation is artificially created by the people in charge, so that the population is very busy dealing with this NONSENSE and won't have time to pay attention to how corrupted the politicians are so they can continue to rip us off, to inflate prices and taxes and enslave us more. 2\. They also claim that they can hire more police officers quickly and get rid of the crime. Well, after De-funding the police, the cops have very little trust in them and so won't rush in to get hired. 3\. One has to understand what crime is and what's causing it order to clamp it down. They have no clue.

* * *

Alan knows how to get things done with little money and he will look at the budget and remove all the fluff and use the excess of funds to pay off the tolls, cut prices of car tabs and high gas prices. He will evaluate property taxes and see if those can be lowered. He understands housing better than any candidate and will find all kinds of solutions to get housing costs more affordable. This state will become business friendly and will attempt to bring back Boeing, Amazon and other businesses that left. There will be more freeways and roads built. Most problems will dissipate on their own with the right policies and discipline. The incentives to behave badly will be removed.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Rosetta Marshall-Williams

Party: Independence Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "“There are only three things that America will remember 2000 years from now when they study this civilization: The Constitution, jazz music and baseball. These are the three most beautiful things this culture's ever created.” - Essayist Gerald Early “America's founders intended powers to be exercised not at the federal level, but by state and local governments, which represent fertile ground for policy innovation,” setting the example of America, as light on the global hill needing infrastructure and economic development at city and state levels." - Secretary Condoleezza Rice; Being a descendant of Chief Justice John Marshall, I am born into the U.S Constitution, as Jazz was born in the USA. It's music shares individuality, improvisation, creativity, and innovation of the American people. Baseball is about all people, sharing it's values of perseverance and teamwork helping us all to overcome adversity. Values of jazz and baseball, that inspire our country, are part of the gritty everyday reality of life in Washington State. These values pulsate through the communities I have worked with and served for many years. I see the global potential of Washington State and our nation, from the grassroots up. It is my dedication to represent you as Governor, making a real difference. As a mother of five children, and14-grandchildren, It is imperative that we leave a legacy for our children to follow, Were only dancing on this earth for a short while!"

* * *

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

The U.S. Constitution: May it forever be our global beacon of light that sets on the hill for America.

* * *

Baseball: As the American people, we all have a position to play, even when were sitting on the bench, you are just as valuable to the American team. Don't ever forget that!

* * *

Jazz: Never allow the storms of life to cause you to drown out the melodies and the beat of your heart for America, for this is the strength of the foundations, if we will just follow the instructions and walk in the light of unity we can make it! The music is the sound of endurance which will leave a forever impression in our memory. "America is great because she is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, she will cease to be great." - Democracy In America. Come on America! Every man, woman, boy, and girl we can make the change.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Mark Mullet

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "I'm currently a State Senator representing East King County in the legislature. I was first elected to the Senate in 2012. I'm the current chair of our state construction budget, and I'm the Senate representative on the Washington State Investment Board that manages our state's $200 billion in public pension assets. My wife Kelley is an elementary school teacher in Issaquah. We have six kids, ranging in age from Penelope in 9th grade to Isabel who is starting her senior year at Western Washington University in Bellingham. Outside of my senate role I own and operate a Zeeks Pizza restaurant and four Ben & Jerry's scoop shops. Since opening our first location in 2009 we have always provided healthcare benefits for our full-time staff. In the State Senate I have played the leading role in finding bipartisan solutions to the biggest challenges facing our state. As the chair of our state construction budget I'm proud that my budget passes the Senate 49-0. That is because I take the time to listen to both urban and rural voices, and to voices from both western and eastern Washington. I have a proven track record of working across the aisle. During my time in the Senate I have been the champion of legislation to improve financial literacy in our public schools. I have also successfully passed bills to address our workforce shortage for nurses, and to expand access to college for all Washington residents."

* * *

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

I am laser focused on making our state more affordable. My wife Kelley and I want our own six children to be able to afford to live in Washington after they finish school. 1) We can fight climate change without having the highest gas prices in America. 2) I have a proven track record of voting against unnecessary tax increases, like the long-term care payroll tax (I'm supporting the initiative to make this tax optional). 3) As the chair of our state construction budget, I know from firsthand experience that there is too much red tape in our building permit process, which is driving up costs and making out state unaffordable. I promise to build more housing, which will be the key to making our state affordable again.

* * *

We have to make progress on public safety. I'm proud to be endorsed by both WACOPS and LAW (Police Chiefs and Sheriffs) because I have been the public safety champion in the Senate. The state needs to step up and be a better financial partner to any city or county who wants to make investments in local public safety. This means access to secure substance abuse treatment facilities, more mental health access, and more officers on the street. We also need these officers to know that the Governor will have their back when times get tough.

* * *

We need a small business owner in the Governor's office so we can create more good paying jobs. Every Governor for the past three decades has been a lawyer, it is time for a small business owner mentality in the Governor's office. This will enable us to get more bang for our buck out of our current tax dollars instead of asking for new taxes every year. The unemployment rate in Washington is already higher than the national average. The unemployment rate gets even worse when you look at rural communities. We need a governor who will support the business community, not sue it. This will be key to creating jobs for our own children going forward.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Dave Reichert

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "My record of service to others began in 1971 when I joined the Air Force Reserves’ 939th Military Airlift Command. Following my time in the military, I embarked on a 33-year law enforcement career at the King County Sheriff’s Office; starting as a beat cop before being appointed (then elected) King County Sheriff. As lead detective of the tenacious and dedicated investigative team, I worked alongside officers, medical examiners, and volunteers to capture the monster known as the “Green River Killer” who senselessly murdered countless women in Washington State during the 1980s and 1990s. In 2004, responding to calls for service in Washington D.C., I ran for and won election to Washington’s 8th Congressional District covering large parts of King and Pierce Counties – serving 14 years before leaving congress. After leaving Congress in 2019, I responded to a modern-day humanitarian crisis by working throughout Central America to combat human trafficking. My wife Julie and I live in Chelan, have three children, six grandchildren and five great grandchildren - all residing in Washington state."

* * *

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

We cannot continue with the status quo as communities across Washington are suffering a devasting public safety crisis. For many years under Governor Jay Inslee and Attorney General Bob Ferguson our state has had the lowest number of police officers per capita in the nation, while homicide, robberies, and vehicle theft are at an all-time high. Simply throwing money at the problem won’t get us out of this mess. It’s time to allow our officers to do their job by enforcing the law and giving them the support they need.

* * *

Washington had the sixth highest homelessness in the U.S. last year. Between 2020 and 2022, Washington experienced a 15.6% increase in homelessness, the fourth largest increase in homelessness in the nation, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Services Office of Community Planning. The first thing I would do is appoint someone as the Director of Homelessness in Washington state. You’ve got to be efficient about this. Somebody in charge to find out what’s working, apply money to what’s working, and find other programs.

* * *

The Cost of Living in Washington State is out of control. Since Governor Inslee took office in 2013, The CATO Institute has given the state of Washington an “F” on its biennial fiscal report card. The people of Washington State have dealt with substantially increased taxes and spending which has led the State’s Cost of Living to be too high to bear. We must address housing affordability, rising food prices, provide transparency within our government and relief for our small businesses.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Don Rivers

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "I am retired from King County Metro as an equipment inspector. I have been involved as an advisor to elective officials nationwide for over 4 plus decades. If I can use one word to describe myself it will be resilience. I have two daughters. My baby Girl is a Tennessee State Trooper. My oldest is a Director of a nonprofit organization here in Washington state. I spent my whole life traveling around the world, speaking as a peace ambassador on culture competency. resolving issues through a peaceful manner. The one thing I will take with me to Olympia is the 3 L’s – Listen, Learn then Lead. This has been my mantra for over 10 years and every time I run for a public office, I use this saying to help me give my all to every citizen of Washington State."

* * *

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

We have a mental health crisis on all levels from our children to our seniors. Mental Health it’s just as important as physical health. We have to implement two tiered systems: Preventive and treatment services by the county councils' mental health providers, and generic services by the municipalities' social welfare system. The resulting division of roles and responsibilities creates a stronger bond of collaboration and coordination of activities on behalf of consumers. It can also have the unintended incentives to serve more difficult consumers.

* * *

Public Safety is a top concern for Washington voters, as we seek communities where we can live and work for ourselves and our families without fear of the rising crime rates or inadequate housing. Policy makers should use and promote more effective strategies to enhance community engaged investing as well as government funding. Law enforcement agencies must be trained or retrained towards a more multicultural and individualized training rather than that of older days.

* * *

Women's Rights - I wholeheartedly support a women’s right to be treated fairly and equally. No one has the right to choose for them.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Andre Stackhouse

Party: Green Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "I am a lifelong Washingtonian, a software engineer, and political organizer unsatisfied with the leadership of our state and nation. I graduated from the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Science in Informatics: Human-Computer Interaction. I went on to work up and down Washington's tech industry from the scrappy Code.org to the multinational Microsoft. After watching the election of Donald Trump, living through COVID, and a lifetime of economic recession, inflation, and stagnation - I came to realize that our political system would not rise to address the needs of our time unless ordinary people like myself were ready to care enough about their community to become an active participant in it. I left Microsoft to become a political organizer and focused primarily on the issue of universal public healthcare. I began volunteering with the nonprofit Whole Washington working to pass statewide single payer healthcare in Washington via both legislation and ballot initiative. I continue to push for this in my current position as executive director. I am running to lead by my example, to put the world I want to see on the ballot in Washington, and to give voters a true political alternative."

* * *

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

Washington is too expensive and quickly becoming completely unaffordable. Even as inflation on the dollar slows, the prices of housing, healthcare, education, transportation, food, and more continues to spiral out of control. Washington needs an economic policy that addresses and reverses this crisis - in one of the wealthiest states of one of the wealthiest nations of the world, nobody should be unable to keep a roof over their head, food on the table, and their prescriptions filled. Ensuring that these basic needs are met for all of our state's people is a core responsibility of government, one that is not currently being fulfilled.

* * *

Washington belongs to its people, not the wealthy, not a political class, not corporations. This must apply both to our political system and our economy. Democratic control of both our political and economic systems must be expanded. Our political democracy can be expanded in a number of ways including preferential voting systems (like ranked-choice voting or STAR), public campaign finance, and strengthening our citizen-initiated ballot measure process. Our economy can be democratized through the introduction and expansion of public institutions and universal services. For instance a public bank can help incentivize worker-owned cooperatives and housing co-ops while universal healthcare works to decommodify healthcare.

* * *

It's time for a politics of the visionary and possible - it's time to end the politics of low expectations. Washington state has a higher GDP per capita than some of the wealthiest nations of the world like Norway and Sweden. We are home to 13 billionaires, leading industries, and top research institutions. There is really nothing we couldn't achieve with public support and competent leadership. We can and should develop nation-scale infrastructure at home, whether or not we receive federal funding. Let us build the Nation of Washington in our public bank, our universal healthcare system, our free public universities, and other freedoms that we enjoy here that are the envy of the rest of the country and world.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Ambra Mason

Party: Constitution Party

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "I am a mother sister and daughter multi-business owner coworker associate￼￼ indigenous Aboriginal American. I was born in Oklahoma City I’ve spent most of my teen and adult years in Orlando Florida. ￼I’m 27 years of age Very passionate strong ,and determined."

* * *

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

I value the options of the people

* * *

I’m determined to collectively do what’s right for the people

* * *

Remember A vote for me is beneficial for you the people

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

Bobbie Samons

Do you have a photo that could go here? Click here to submit it for this profile!

Party: No party preference

Incumbent: No

Submitted Biography: "I'm not a politician. I'm not a lobbyist. I do not know anyone in politics. I do not have any friends nor acquaintances in politics. I have no ties to corporations or special interest groups. I'm not corrupted by politics. I'm a wife and mother of four. I've worked in healthcare for over 20 years and am educated in law and politics. I authentically represent The People. I've lived in Washington State my entire life and I travel around the state each camping season with my kids."

* * *

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

"...whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive...it is the Right of the People to alter or abolish it..." I declare our Independence from destructive political parties who propagandize us to perpetuate a two-party system that the People do not control, nor benefit from. I refuse to continue to turn a blind eye to corrupt behavior. I refuse to usher the lies from the past, into the future; I refuse to carry that burden and I refuse to let my kids eventually carry that burden.

* * *

If you want something you've never had, you have to do something you've never done. This declares the ability to change the course of events by changing the decision you make. Einstein told us that insanity is making the same decision repeatedly while expecting a different result. I want to escape the two-party system. I want to rebuild our political communities on the ashes of corruption. I want the People of this state to secure their prosperity over corporate prosperity for once in our lives. I want the political parties to know that the People of this state are no longer subservient to their agendas.

* * *

"The party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears...and if all others accepted the lie which the party imposed...then the lie passed into history and became the truth." Since 2020 this state is looking awfully Orwellian and this will not be tolerated. The Revised Codes of Washington DECLARES the People of this state do not yield their sovereignty to the agencies that serve them. The People also do not give our public servants the right to decide what is good for us to know, and what is not good for us to know. We will no longer be propagandized to perpetuate the two-party system.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Washington in 2024.

### Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses[edit]

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Survey responses from candidates in this race

Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Expand all | Collapse all

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Ricky Anthony (D)

Lived Experience

Learned Experience

Efficient Administration

Semi Bird (R)

Semi is a candidate who believes in putting people over politics. A candidate of the people, by the people and for the people. ALL of the people

He has the knowledge, skills, and abilities to bring real solutions with action to address the out-of-control homelessness, lawlessness, and breakdown of our economy and public education system.

We will usher in a new era of grown and prosperity for our beautiful state and its citizens by supporting small business growth, lower taxes, job creation, and neighborhood revitalization.

Brian Bogen (No party preference)

Brian knows public safety is at the core of strong communities that are great places to raise a family, own a business and build an economy that works for everyone. The top priority of government is the protection of its people. If people don’t feel safe in their communities, businesses or walking to school, nothing else matters.

Brian's focus is on transforming education to ensure every student succeeds. He believes in diving deeper into K-12 funding to improve student outcomes, taking immediate action in low-performing districts, and allocating funds to boost educational attainment and reduce dropout rates. Brian prioritizes spending on students over administrators and supports school choice and Career and Technical Education to cater to diverse learning needs. He advocates for accountability with one central agency overseeing school performance and the State Auditor reviewing district spending. Brian is committed to robust educational funding with a focus on results, setting clear goals, and taking decisive action to prepare all students for their futures.

Brian is committed to responsible financial management for Washington State. He opposes the practice of using volatile or one-time funds for ongoing expenses, which risks cuts to essential services or higher taxes. He believes lawmakers must accept the shortcomings of the capital gains excise tax and the Climate Commitment Act, both of which fall short in funding promises while increasing costs for taxpayers. Brian advocates for a budget that reflects shared values, prioritizing the environment, public safety, education, housing, and support for the vulnerable. He believes in crafting a sustainable budget that ensures long-term stability and prosperity for all Washingtonians.

Edward Cale (D)

I will correct the oppression that is unjust, unequal and unfair, and unconstitutional.

I will bring prosperity to all who reside in Washington with everyone's help.

I will correct the corruption in government and in our society.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

A Shared Parenting Bill of Rights first and foremost reforms our family law courts to protect the rights of all fit, willing, and able parents to have the default presumption of equal shared custody. The benefits of 50/50 shared parenting for children are well documented by decades of scientific research and apply to even high conflict separations and divorces. Five states (have already done so with very positive results.

Child support reforms are needed to automatically share money between parental homes that share custody (Residential Credit). This ensures that child support equally protects children in both parental homes and that payments are more equitable and predictable, which in turn will reduce conflict. Currently, even in the families that already share custody 50/50, child support is shared in only one out of four cases.

Washington State needs to reform court funding and staffing levels so that justice is speedy and cases are not unnecessarily delayed. Regardless of whether an innocent parent needs custody restored or a guilty parent needs custody removed, delays in the court system hurt children and should not drag on while children grow up.

William Combs (Independent)

Our energy policies are antiquated and will be updated to 21st Century standards by using modern technology and ideas. We cannot solve the energy deficit by turning off the gas.

Washington State needs to begin producing more of it's food locally by increasing the amount of livestock raised and growing more food using locally sourced greenhouses and hydroponic farms. Importing our food from outside the US using a very fragile and price sensitive oil makes us less secure during times of crisis.

The homeless problem cannot be solved by ignoring it. Offering services to homeless after they have completed many hours of community service showing they really want the help is the first step in dealing with the problem.

Michael DePaula (L)

Reduction in Washington's debt burden to position the state favorably for the loomng recession.

Fortifying citizen self-defense, community readiness, and emergency preparations for potential municipal failures as the national debt crisis widens.

Privatization of key industries to reduce the state budget per item #1 ensuring service continuity.

Fred Grant (D)

More than one-in-three American labor force participants (35%) are Millennials, making them the largest generation in the U.S. labor force. However, Millennials are severely under-represented in our government.

As a candidate for governor of the state of Washington, I want to bring fresh and new ideas to our government and solve problems by thinking outside of the box. I will work to create a government that is more transparent, accountable, and efficient.

I am committed to making Washington a great place to live, work, and raise a family. My vision is to make Washington a leading state for other states to follow its example.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

As someone who absolutely loves our senior Veterans, it broke my heart to meet several homeless Veterans who laid down their lives for our country, just to be without a home!

I have a passionate heart to look out for the most optimum living for our Veterans. I intend to make sure every Veteran receives comfort, care, and most of all, affordable housing!

I also advocated for more accessible property tax information for seniors who are not online and may struggle with complex processes. As a result, the Treasury's office agreed to create clearer materials, helping many elderly families understand and potentially reduce their high property taxes for the first time. And it worked I helped several families reduce their property taxes!

In my role as a local leader and counselor, I have stood up for innocent victims of harassment, ensuring that those who use their power to oppress others through fear and intimidation are held accountable and removed from their positions. I will continue to fight for justice and stand up against bullying. I have a wonderful plan for anti-bullying programs for all schools and believe that there should be special care for those who are most vulnerable. I would like to target the prevention of bullying of students in order to avoid depression and suicide, reducing (the number one reason for death among 14-year-olds in our society today).

All Washingtonians deserve to get ahead in life, while feeling less vulnerable on our streets. Creating a better economy and safer neighborhoods is a must for me. I know we can do better, as so many people simply want to spend more quality time with loved ones and families.

Chaytan Inman (D)

Self-Sustaining Washington

Resilient Washington

Educated Washington

EL'ona Kearney (D)

Community-Driven Leadership: I believe in prioritizing the diverse voices and concerns of Washingtonians, making sure every community has a seat at the table in the decision-making process. When we support the communities, their skills, and the diversity they offer rather than forcing everyone to be the same, we can rebuild our foundation.

Removing Labels: Labels have a dehumanizing effect, and it's crucial to eliminate stereotypes that create divisions within our communities. My mission is to celebrate diversity and foster unity, transcending the confines of data and statistics to gain a profound understanding of the distinct needs in every community. Recognizing that there's no one-size-fits-all solution, we must ensure that every voice is heard, enabling us to bridge the gaps in needs and equity. This allows everyone to pursue the American dream, without instilling fear of taking from one group to benefit another.moving Labels-Seeing people beyond stereotypes & data, addressing needs

Advocacy and Unity: I believe in the power of advocacy. It allows people to survive unsurvivable situations. I understand it both personally and politically. I aim to bring about positive change that unites communities to work together for the betterment of Washington State.

Leon Lawson (Trump Republican)

RESTORE WASHINGTON

IMMIGRATION REFORM SLASH REGULATIONS.

REIGN IN AGENCY DEFERENCE OVER INTERPRETATION OF LAW AND CODIFACATION.

Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters)

The ultimate goal is to have free healthcare at no extra cost. At a minimum there should be plentyfull alternative healthcare options that are cheap and/or donation based; preventive and prophylactic medicine established. He will introduce a comprehensive education reform. The emphasiss should be on the up-bringing of children and their education from the kindergarden. There should be education about family life and trades should be taught in later schooling years. Radio and television would be producing more educational material throughout the week for children and adults alike. The best and the brightest would be sought out and brought forward for teaching and other kind of work. There will be NO MORE NONSENSE anywhere in the state.

Crime and lawlessness, like anything else, is a multifaceted problem, some of it is visible and some is not.

1. On one hand, the situation is artificially created by the people in charge, so that the population is very busy dealing with this NONSENSE and won't have time to pay attention to how corrupted the politicians are so they can continue to rip us off, to inflate prices and taxes and enslave us more.
2. They also claim that they can hire more police officers quickly and get rid of the crime. Well, after De-funding the police, the cops have very little trust in them and so won't rush in to get hired.

3\. One has to understand what crime is and what's causing it order to clamp it down. They have no clue.

Alan knows how to get things done with little money and he will look at the budget and remove all the fluff and use the excess of funds to pay off the tolls, cut prices of car tabs and high gas prices. He will evaluate property taxes and see if those can be lowered. He understands housing better than any candidate and will find all kinds of solutions to get housing costs more affordable. This state will become business friendly and will attempt to bring back Boeing, Amazon and other businesses that left. There will be more freeways and roads built. Most problems will dissipate on their own with the right policies and discipline. The incentives to behave badly will be removed.

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

The U.S. Constitution: May it forever be our global beacon of light that sets on the hill for America.

Baseball: As the American people, we all have a position to play, even when were sitting on the bench, you are just as valuable to the American team.

Don't ever forget that!

Jazz: Never allow the storms of life to cause you to drown out the melodies and the beat of your heart for America, for this is the strength of the foundations, if we will just follow the instructions and walk in the light of unity we can make it! The music is the sound of endurance which will leave a forever impression in our memory.

"America is great because she is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, she will cease to be great." - Democracy In America.

Come on America! Every man, woman, boy, and girl we can make the change.

Mark Mullet (D)

I am laser focused on making our state more affordable. My wife Kelley and I want our own six children to be able to afford to live in Washington after they finish school.

1) We can fight climate change without having the highest gas prices in America. 2) I have a proven track record of voting against unnecessary tax increases, like the long-term care payroll tax (I'm supporting the initiative to make this tax optional). 3) As the chair of our state construction budget, I know from firsthand experience that there is too much red tape in our building permit process, which is driving up costs and making out state unaffordable.

I promise to build more housing, which will be the key to making our state affordable again.

We have to make progress on public safety. I'm proud to be endorsed by both WACOPS and LAW (Police Chiefs and Sheriffs) because I have been the public safety champion in the Senate.

The state needs to step up and be a better financial partner to any city or county who wants to make investments in local public safety. This means access to secure substance abuse treatment facilities, more mental health access, and more officers on the street. We also need these officers to know that the Governor will have their back when times get tough.

We need a small business owner in the Governor's office so we can create more good paying jobs. Every Governor for the past three decades has been a lawyer, it is time for a small business owner mentality in the Governor's office. This will enable us to get more bang for our buck out of our current tax dollars instead of asking for new taxes every year.

The unemployment rate in Washington is already higher than the national average. The unemployment rate gets even worse when you look at rural communities. We need a governor who will support the business community, not sue it. This will be key to creating jobs for our own children going forward.

Dave Reichert (R)

We cannot continue with the status quo as communities across Washington are suffering a devasting public safety crisis.

For many years under Governor Jay Inslee and Attorney General Bob Ferguson our state has had the lowest number of police officers per capita in the nation, while homicide, robberies, and vehicle theft are at an all-time high. Simply throwing money at the problem won’t get us out of this mess.

It’s time to allow our officers to do their job by enforcing the law and giving them the support they need.

Washington had the sixth highest homelessness in the U.S. last year. Between 2020 and 2022, Washington experienced a 15.6% increase in homelessness, the fourth largest increase in homelessness in the nation, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Services Office of Community Planning.

The first thing I would do is appoint someone as the Director of Homelessness in Washington state. You’ve got to be efficient about this. Somebody in charge to find out what’s working, apply money to what’s working, and find other programs.

The Cost of Living in Washington State is out of control. Since Governor Inslee took office in 2013, The CATO Institute has given the state of Washington an “F” on its biennial fiscal report card. The people of Washington State have dealt with substantially increased taxes and spending which has led the State’s Cost of Living to be too high to bear.

We must address housing affordability, rising food prices, provide transparency within our government and relief for our small businesses.

Don Rivers (D)

We have a mental health crisis on all levels from our children to our seniors. Mental Health it’s just as important as physical health. We have to implement two tiered systems: Preventive and treatment services by the county councils' mental health providers, and generic services by the municipalities' social welfare system. The resulting division of roles and responsibilities creates a stronger bond of collaboration and coordination of activities on behalf of consumers. It can also have the unintended incentives to serve more difficult consumers.

Public Safety is a top concern for Washington voters, as we seek communities where we can live and work for ourselves and our families without fear of the rising crime rates or inadequate housing. Policy makers should use and promote more effective strategies to enhance community engaged investing as well as government funding. Law enforcement agencies must be trained or retrained towards a more multicultural and individualized training rather than that of older days.

Women's Rights - I wholeheartedly support a women’s right to be treated fairly and equally. No one has the right to choose for them.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

"...whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive...it is the Right of the People to alter or abolish it..." I declare our Independence from destructive political parties who propagandize us to perpetuate a two-party system that the People do not control, nor benefit from. I refuse to continue to turn a blind eye to corrupt behavior. I refuse to usher the lies from the past, into the future; I refuse to carry that burden and I refuse to let my kids eventually carry that burden.

If you want something you've never had, you have to do something you've never done. This declares the ability to change the course of events by changing the decision you make. Einstein told us that insanity is making the same decision repeatedly while expecting a different result. I want to escape the two-party system. I want to rebuild our political communities on the ashes of corruption. I want the People of this state to secure their prosperity over corporate prosperity for once in our lives. I want the political parties to know that the People of this state are no longer subservient to their agendas.

"The party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears...and if all others accepted the lie which the party imposed...then the lie passed into history and became the truth." Since 2020 this state is looking awfully Orwellian and this will not be tolerated. The Revised Codes of Washington DECLARES the People of this state do not yield their sovereignty to the agencies that serve them. The People also do not give our public servants the right to decide what is good for us to know, and what is not good for us to know. We will no longer be propagandized to perpetuate the two-party system.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

Washington is too expensive and quickly becoming completely unaffordable. Even as inflation on the dollar slows, the prices of housing, healthcare, education, transportation, food, and more continues to spiral out of control. Washington needs an economic policy that addresses and reverses this crisis - in one of the wealthiest states of one of the wealthiest nations of the world, nobody should be unable to keep a roof over their head, food on the table, and their prescriptions filled. Ensuring that these basic needs are met for all of our state's people is a core responsibility of government, one that is not currently being fulfilled.

Washington belongs to its people, not the wealthy, not a political class, not corporations. This must apply both to our political system and our economy. Democratic control of both our political and economic systems must be expanded.

Our political democracy can be expanded in a number of ways including preferential voting systems (like ranked-choice voting or STAR), public campaign finance, and strengthening our citizen-initiated ballot measure process.

Our economy can be democratized through the introduction and expansion of public institutions and universal services. For instance a public bank can help incentivize worker-owned cooperatives and housing co-ops while universal healthcare works to decommodify healthcare.

It's time for a politics of the visionary and possible - it's time to end the politics of low expectations. Washington state has a higher GDP per capita than some of the wealthiest nations of the world like Norway and Sweden. We are home to 13 billionaires, leading industries, and top research institutions.

There is really nothing we couldn't achieve with public support and competent leadership. We can and should develop nation-scale infrastructure at home, whether or not we receive federal funding. Let us build the Nation of Washington in our public bank, our universal healthcare system, our free public universities, and other freedoms that we enjoy here that are the envy of the rest of the country and world.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Ricky Anthony (D)

Policy research methodology should be used as an inspiring instrument to improve our policies, paving the way for a stable society that benefits all, not just a few. Subsequently, it's frequently criticized for its insensitivity and for operating in a political world that is far removed from reality. This is an impediment I cannot accept. Our scientific deductive standards for evaluations facilitate data-driven decisions. These decisions guide our state and significantly impact our lives in the real world. Given the latter, the policy design process is rooted in implicit and explicit assumptions, igniting my passion for public policy.

Semi Bird (R)

Law and Order

Education

Economic Growth

Accountability and Transparency

Energy Independence

Performance Improvement

Brian Bogen (No party preference)

Brian's policy priorities are safe communities, ensuring access to high-quality education for every child, and environmental stewardship. He is dedicated to bridging the deeply fractured political system that has focused too much on extremes and not enough on policies that benefit the majority. He believes Washingtonians are ready for a third option that transcends partisan divides. Brian’s campaign is centered on collaboration, problem-solving, and leadership that priorities the common good. He aims to be a governor who brings together the best minds, diverse ideas, and innovative solutions to debate to craft the best policies that move our state forward on the pressing issues facing Washington.

Edward Cale (D)

I believe in helping all sectors as a whole: the poor, middle class and the upper class.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

Reforming family law and our court systems has the tremendous potential to improve public health in Washington State. The divorce industry profits from the destruction of our families and taxpayers pick up the financial tab for the many ways that children are hurt. Worse yet, the divorce industry takes trial lawyers away from criminal justice system where the severe backlog of criminal cases results in prosecuters often declining to prosecute new criminal cases that would otherwise be winnable. Fixing our severely broken divorce system will refocus those lawyers on putting criminals in jail instead of putting two parents on trial to determine which one is the better parent. Courts should focus on prosecuting criminals, not parents.

William Combs (Independent)

Urban Reclamation and renewal.

Michael DePaula (L)

I became a student of economics and finance some years ago and still spend literal hours of personal time each day keeping up with the daily changes in not only the nation's banking and finance sectors but their international counterparts' as well. As a Libertarian, ensuring citizens' access to sound money that honors their privacy in daily transactions is paramount as the Federal Reserve looks to take the opposite tack and introduce centralized tools like FedNow and a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) "solutions" to fix their balance sheet woes brought on by decades of loose fiscal policy.

Additionally, one cannot really claim to be a Libertarian without being concerned over the states' slide into ever-increasing authoritarian schemes. The Covid-19 pandemic has brought with it not only economic weakness, but an accompanying wave of free speech concerns and a general erosion of what used to be considered core constitutional rights--free assembly, medical autonomy, and their associated rights of commerce and movement.

The core of my administration will center around acting as a check on legislative overstep whether it comes from a Democratic or Republican-led legislative body, ensuring citizens' rights are not only NOT whittled away, but that they are strengthened as the country enters a period of crisis.

Fred Grant (D)

Fred Grant is committed to addressing mental health challenges by creating a robust system that provides accessible and comprehensive mental health resources for every resident. Fred is also committed to fighting climate change, protecting forests and wildlife, and promoting sustainable practices to keep Washington green and clean. He believes that healthcare is a basic human right and is committed to expanding access to affordable, high-quality healthcare for all Washingtonians. Fred recognizes the transformative power of tourism and seeks to strengthen this sector to create jobs, generate revenue, and amplify local businesses. He believes that every child in Washington deserves access to quality education and is committed to improving schools, paying teachers what they deserve, and providing more resources to students. Fred is also committed to ensuring affordable housing for all Washingtonians, which is crucial for a fair and thriving Washington. He believes that AI is transforming the workplace and is committed to facilitating this change by promoting upskilling and reskilling programs, enabling workers to adapt and thrive in a technology-driven environment. Join Fred Grant on a transformative journey towards a united and empowered Washington State.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

Greater protection and support for our public schools! When the largest public school in our community approved lewd and pornographic reading material, I emphasized that teachers should never compromise by assigning inappropriate content to children.

What Washington needs is a leader; one who fights hard for you your family and especially our children, pushing back against corrupt policies.

I have a vision for all Washingtonians to move forward into greater success, productivity, comfort, and care, especially for our senior veterans, single mothers, and our precious children. I know that every single decision I make will have a direct impact on our future generations. That is why I plan to prioritize the safety of our children.

Chaytan Inman (D)

I am driven by the vision of a future where we don't breathe smoke and destruction and we can deeply celebrate and replenish the resources we have. To this end, I am passionate about enfranchising the Earth.

We search for solutions to our destruction that we cause in technological breakthroughs and pin our hopes on far fetched sciences. This is a complete diversion. Technology may provide relief, but it does not address the context of a system that rewards exploitation of resources and people. That is where we have to start. We cannot outconsume overconsumption, or exploit away the life's exploitation. For example, electric vehicles rely on unsustainable exploitation of rare minerals like cobalt, and cheap, backbreaking mining labor in third world countries which itself creates immense toxic tailings. This is an unacceptable 'solution' to our destruction of the environment.

If we fundamentally give all life and resources legislative rights such that when we take resources from the ground, or pollute resources like clean air and water, then there is judicial and legislative recourse and we set the foundation for a system that values humanity and life on Earth. Enfranchising the earth allows the practices that best maintain life to compete with the destruction and exploitation unregulated globalized capitalism brings.

Washington will take responsibility and prosper. We will become the only state to truly tend our deep gifts that the life has given us.

EL'ona Kearney (D)

1\. Healthcare and Mental Health Access: I have experienced firsthand the difficulties at every level, from being a single mom to navigating veteran care and caring for my father.

2\. Unhoused Community: I have experienced homelessness with children, and I understand the challenges our elders face in securing housing. Recognizing the various categories of homelessness, I believe that addressing each area according to its unique needs can lead to more effective and efficient assistance. 3\. Restorative Justice: I have family members who embody what reform should look like. We need fair and just policies that address issues such as prison reform and the reduction of recidivism rates. 4\. Education: As a mother and advocate, I believe in equal access to quality education. I am dedicated to addressing issues related to school funding, teacher support, parents' rights to know what is being taught, and educational equity.

Other policies I am passionate about and have first hand experience include: 5\. Community Development 6\. Environmental Stewardship 7\. Social Equity 8\. Small Business Support 9\. Union Worker Support

10\. Veterans' Rights

Leon Lawson (Trump Republican)

Regulation Of agency control, these people are destroying us from the inside

Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters)

Originally Alan thought that selling health for money was a bad idea because that's medical business. He later realized that faith for money is equally bad or even worse, because that is just fooling people. Now he thinks that politicians for money is also bad thing because when money is involved in any of the above, it will bring the corruption. The politicians that have been in charge of this state for the last say 30 years had absolutely no vision. That'swhy no matter who got elected, things were not improving. Because the new ones were just as blind, as the ones that got replaced. Vision is not a goal or something that gets cooked up in one's head. It's the ability to see what's not obvious or visible.

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

1.Public safety: Address crime rates, police reform, gun control, community policy strategies are an ongoing concern. We must improve public safety while promoting trust and accountability within our law enforcement. 2. It is imperative to access health care, mental health service, efficient substance abuse treatment with its disparities and improve infrastructure. 3. Housing: We must address policies to increase affordable housing stock, protect renter rights, and address homelessness. 4. We must Reform education: We must produce improvements for grade k-12, college supportability. 5. Economic development: fostering innovations, tax policies, workforce development initiatives, and economic diversification strategies are key issues.

Mark Mullet (D)

I have focused on a few different areas during my time in the Senate.

1) Improving financial literacy in our public schools (SB 5720). 2) Expanding access to college in the high school classes so more high school students can earn college credit while in high school without having to pay extra money (SB 5048). 3) I was part of the Senate negotiation team that passed the 2022 transportation budget. Traffic sucks, and we need a Governor who will prioritize infrastructure investments. The average Washington resident currently wastes 58 hours a year stuck in traffic. We can and must do better.

4) Led the effort to join the Nurse Licensure Compact so out-of-state nurses aren't stuck with red tape to get a job here. (SB 5499)

Dave Reichert (R)

From the United States Air Force to the King County Sheriff’s Office, I witnessed examples of selfless sacrifice, individuals who put others before themselves. That experience taught me what it means to have a servant’s heart, honored by an opportunity to help, and driven to show the courage and humility it takes to get things done. As Sheriff, I arrested violent criminals and locked up human traffickers who preyed on women and children. On my watch crime was down as we enforced the law and everyone was accountable. This experience served me well when the people of Washington sent me to Congress where I worked with Republicans and Democrats to pass bold policies on everything from tax relief to trade to protecting our environment.

Don Rivers (D)

All agendas are useless unless we become more organized. We cannot speak about the power of vote, economic or any social items unless we organize. Therefore the central task for us in Washington State is to put the power back into the voices of Washingtonians. It is time to stand on business, breaking away from practicing tribalism of getting nothing done for the people.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

I surf the Legislature website and warn everyone about bills that directly conflict with the needs of the People. I pay significant attention to the bills and bill promoters that increase taxes for the People, or just otherwise make it economically hard for a large group of people, just to make it economically easier for a small group of people. I like doing this because it's common for people to become propagandized to go against their own self-interest.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

Universal healthcare, universal basic income, a guarantee to housing, tuition-free higher education, a true living wage, ranked-choice voting, multiparty democracy, proportional representation, campaign finance reform, public banking, fare-free public transit,

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

Ricky Anthony (D)

My mother, my biggest inspiration, devoted nearly 30 years to serving our community, working as a Substance Abuse Counselor at the Metropolitan Development Council. Her profession is a testament to selflessness, demonstrating a commitment to Tacoma. She assisted individuals struggling with substance abuse, helping them recover from their addictions and connecting them to additional resources such as housing, employment, and behavioral health programs. She educated, influenced, and guided people to reach their highest potential. My mother's heroism in bringing out untapped potential in people, no matter their circumstances, is powerful, heart-touching, and inspirational. Her unwavering commitment to selfless service and improving the community has significantly influenced my way of life, fueling my commitment to selfless service. Another influential figure is Miss Ann Mills Griffiths, CEO of the League of Families. It's hard to imagine where America's recovery efforts would be without the Ronald Reagan Administration. Notably, Miss Ann Mills-Griffiths' letters to Congress, backed by countless Americans campaigning for the safe return of Prisoners of War and seeking full accounting and identification of POWs/MIA from the Vietnam conflict, still resonates with me. Her determination led to establishing relations and a resolution with Vietnam while also contributing to normalized relations with Laos and Cambodia, which, in effect, brought families closure. Our official meetings in 2018 were an honor, and they intrinsically oriented my perception of what enhanced proficiency in diplomatic engagements looked and sounded like. I admire her heroism and find them valuable for growth and development.

Semi Bird (R)

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

Theodore Roosevelt. His life was defined by public service and finding purpose in trying to improve the lives of others. He worked very hard each day and overcame many setbacks in life. His effort and determination are what helped him persevere when the odds were often against him.

William Combs (Independent)

President Lincoln and President Kennedy. Honesty and integrity are first and foremost for leadership.

Michael DePaula (L)

I have a variety of role models, one for each goal I find myself pursuing. Politically speaking, I developed a profound respect for Justin Amash, the US Representative from Michigan's 3rd district who served from 2011-2021. His long-form podcast, The Justin Amash Podcast, is phenomenal.

Fred Grant (D)

Honestly, part of the reason why I want to run for office is because I believe we lack good leadership. There really aren't many people that I look up to in modern times. I do enjoy reading about inspiring figures of the past such as: Marcus Aurelius, Albert Einstein, Napoleon Bonaparte, America's founding fathers, and so on. Any great leaders or inventors inspire me.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

I know Cathy McMorris Rogers, and I am mesmerized by the beauty of her stoic character and light! I hope to become more like Cathy, as she always remains humble and kind to everyone she meets. She truly exemplifies one who humbles herself to others, and truly cares for others from the heart.

Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters)

John the Russian, St Rita of Cascia

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

I focus myself every day of to live by these same principals of life described by Mother Teresa, My ancestor Pocahantas, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. before God and before man.

One of the great humanitarians of our age, Saint Teresa of Calcutta.

“If you judge people, you have no time to love them.” “Peace begins with a smile.” “We fear the future because we are wasting today.” “Not all of us can do great things. ... “Yesterday is gone. ... “NOT ALL OF US CAN DO GREAT THINGS. BUT WE CAN DO SMALL THINGS WITH GREAT LOVE.” — MOTHER TERESA

Pocahontas was born a daughter of the chief of the Powhatan confederation, Wahunsenacah. She was an important agent in the evolution of relations between the settlers of Jamestown, Virginia, and the Native Americans of the region.

“Like two eagles soar as one upon the river of the wind with the promise of forever, we will take the past and learn how to begin.” “We are all connected to each other, in a circle, in a hoop that never ends.” “Two hopeful hearts, two lands apart. Together there's no end to what our dream can start.” “Sometimes the right path is not always the easiest.” “My world has changed, and so have I. I have learned to choose, and I have learned to say goodbye.” “Listen with your heart, you will understand.” — Pocahontas

Dr. King was a prominent activist and prolific writer and public speaker throughout his life. Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech and world Activist.

"Yes, if you want to say that I was a drum major, say that I was a drum major for justice, say that I was a drum major for peace, I was a drum major for righteousness, and all the other shallow things will not matter." "Make a career of humanity. Commit yourself to the noble struggle for equal rights. You will make a better person of yourself, a greater nation of your country, and a finer world to live in."

— Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Mark Mullet (D)

My Dad became the mayor of Tukwila from 1999 to 2007. It was his example of local public service that inspired me to get more involved in public service when I moved home in 2006. There is no better way to make a positive difference in this world than local public service.

Don Rivers (D)

I was honored to have two great Civil Rights icons to look up to. Former Governor Albert Rosellini and Reverend Samuel Berry Mckinney of Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Both my mentors in life and professionally. Governor Rosellini was what we call the New Deal Democrat. He taught me the ends and outs of Washington State Politics. I will never forget him telling me, " You're an immigrant too. The only difference is your people were forced to come here and we are now fighting to be seen as humans." Reverend McKinney was considered to be the father among fathers. He taught me to be patient and lean not on my own understanding, to have hope and faith in humanity and know that great changes come from an idea of one individual.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

I look up to the version of myself that is my best self. I practice working towards this self every day. My best self is balanced in all things, compassion and indifference, emotional intelligence, dominance and submission, good humor and seriousness,

Andre Stackhouse (G)

I look up to Ralph Nader and wish to follow his example. I respect his citizen-driven approach to politics and his focus on public safety and consumer protection. I believe he was a deeply serious policy thinker with a disciplined evidence-based approach to his work. And I think he was incredibly successful and was able to exercise significant political impact outside of elected office, while also using his candidacy for office as a powerful political message.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Semi Bird (R)

Dave

Edward Cale (D)

They are welcome to contact me for interviews. My information is public found on the PDC website, my campaign website, and on the electronic voter's pamphlet, and if I make it with everyone's support, the general election's paper voters pamphlet.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

When I read Bernie Sanders book, Outsider In The White House, what struck me was how if he could find even the smallest amount of common ground with an opposing legislator, then that would be a starting point to work together. My understanding is that he has been one of the most productive legislators in terms of both bills introduced and legislation passed.

William Combs (Independent)

Fight Club.

Michael DePaula (L)

"Anatomy of The State" by Murray N. Rothbard

Fred Grant (D)

My political philosophy is a product of my experiences and the knowledge I have gained over the years. I have traveled the world, seen different cultures, and discovered various philosophies. I have also been influenced by science fiction novels and films, such as “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” which is based on humanism. Humanism emphasizes the importance of reason, ethics, and justice, and it is a philosophy that has been embraced by many people throughout history. Another science fiction novel that has influenced my views is “The Time Machine” by H.G. Wells. This novel shows a potential outcome if we don’t change our ways and continue to act irresponsibly. I have also been a great fan of “The Twilight Zone,” which delves into themes that we wouldn’t normally consider in everyday life. My political views stem from a large body of different works, but with only one purpose in mind: to lead humanity into a better future.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

As an Author, I wrote a book that was based in biblical, Hebrew tradition for every spiritual believer called: "Awakening Arrows of Victory". Amazon

Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters)

A FAST CURE FOR COLD FLU PNEUMONIA

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

Democracy in America by Alexis de Tocqueville The Marshall Documents of my descendant’s of Chief Justice John Marshall and Family

Mark Mullet (D)

Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin. It looks at how Lincoln brought people he had run against in the 1860 election into his administration to make sure he had a diversity of voices and opinions as he tried to address the challenges facing America during the Civil War.

Dave Reichert (R)

President Lincoln is one of my favorite presidents, along with Teddy Roosevelt. One of my favorite books is Team of Rivals. As the president of a nation divided, Lincoln had the courage and wisdom to bring people together with differing opinions. Our state is a state divided, and I am inspired by President Lincoln and his ability to bring our nation together. As Governor, I will bring the people of Washington together to solve the critical issues confronting us.

Don Rivers (D)

One of my favorite films is one that was recently released titled “The Beehive”. It's a must see. Books I would recommend are Michelle Obama's book “Becoming”, “Wartime Sermons of Dr. Peter Marshall” by Rev, Peter J. Marshall, “ How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie. Also “52 Weeks To Better Mental Health” by Tina B. Tessina and “The Art of Thinking Without Thinking” by Malcolm Gladwell.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

Most books, music, television, news and films about current events are propaganda either for, or against something the political parties have politicized about our lives, so I recommend none of the mainstream materials whatsoever. I would, however, suggest Orwell, so People can see what's happening to us and get an idea of why I do not support political parties.

I'd recommend reading The COINTELPRO Papers by Ward Churchill and Jim Vander Wall. People will start to understand why the political movements of the past were unsuccessful, and how the government uses our alphabet agencies to keep us under political control. I'd suggest reading The End of America by Naomi Wolf, so the People can see that both political parties are executing Fascist tactics at every step and have been actively using Fascist techniques since 2020. I highly recommend researching Fascism and its components. Then the People can start to see how they closed down an open society after invoking a terrifying external threat. They demonized the enemy, which was "invisible". They maintained the "enemy" for functionality, and they asserted the superiority of the agency leader's intellect over abstract and universal reason. Even though the Establishment controls Chomsky, it's still beneficial to read Noam Chomsky's "Manufactured Consent", to learn how hard we're propagandized. It's really amazing actually; not the propaganda itself, but the fact that most people have no idea it's happening. I'd suggest reading Dr. Mary's Monkeys by Edward Haslam. I recommend this because if you've never cracked a book, or figured out what an adjuvant is, everything you know about vaccines is propaganda from drug companies and people that benefit off your ignorance.

My political philosophy is very clear; I cannot be propagandized, I cannot be gaslit, and I do not support political parties.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

The Shock Doctrine (book/documentary), An Unreasonable Man (documentary), Doughnut Economics (book)

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Ricky Anthony (D)

Undoubtedly, the essential characteristics and principles for an elected official include being conscientious and proactive, challenging the status quo, and demonstrating a steadfast commitment to serving the people of Washington selflessly. By the same importance, incorporating legal advice and counsel into their decision-making processes to bolster public trust.

Moreover, an elected official should proficiently simplify complex issues, making them more accessible and understandable for the general public. They must be proactive in closing policy loopholes and advancing proposals that streamline priorities, save costs, and improve the efficiency of governance.

They must be action-oriented and attentively involved in restoring victims' emotional and material losses and providing opportunities for dialogue, negotiation, and problem-solving.

They must be intuitive, demonstrate political acumen, contest assumptions, clarify misunderstandings, and address conflicts when policies, regulations, or rules appear to undermine stability instead of backing it.

An elected official must be resolute in their commitment to safeguarding women's rights. With intent, they should ensure that all individuals, regardless of gender, are not only treated with respect but also have legal protections for their life and livelihood.

An elected official is self-evident and has proven trustworthiness and credibility. They should also be able to engage and attract a diverse array of investors, including those from the African American community, and establish balanced commercial partnerships both domestically and globally. The elected official should exhibit diplomatic acuteness and have the capability to unify Memorandums of Understanding that could potentially evolve into bilateral agreements.

Lastly, they must have the talent to unite people behind their initiatives, channeling America's proud traditions that have driven social and economic progress.

Semi Bird (R)

Honor, Selfless Service, Personal Courage, Integrity, Servant Leadership, Constitution based governance, Transparency

Edward Cale (D)

I am someone who has experience in governance and leadership, has demonstrated my commitment and goal to support all effectively and generously, and I am running for two terms (if elected), to complete what I started long ago.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

An elected official should want to make the lives better of as many people as possible. Government is run by people and having the right attitude and for the right reason can make a hugely positive impact on the people that live here. The most honorable officials have a 'servant leadership' mindset and do their best to help all that need them.

William Combs (Independent)

Honesty, integrity and truthfulness in all things.

Michael DePaula (L)

Transparency, honesty, and a sense of obligation to not follow the crowd.

Fred Grant (D)

An elected official should be transparent and a good communicator, remain calm and composed when forced to make tough decisions, be trustworthy and truthful, have a good heart and make people feel safe, and be a good role model for the next generation.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

I believe in elected official should be a servant to the community and do the hard work as a leader who helps people advance in our economy and places Washingtonians as a priority.

I believe an elected official of Washington should look out for our own citizens while keeping them safe and secure, especially when it comes to their housing. I think an elected official shouldn't be prideful or fake, or take all the credit for the work others did for them, but give credit where credit is due. I also do not believe there should be "favoritism" to those who are wealthy, but a good leader does not discriminate based on income. I believe that if you're going to run for office, you need to really care about others like I do.

Choosing me for your Governor will keep us in good hands, safe and secure, able to sleep better at night. I believe that you and I have the ability to rise out of where we have fallen, and as your Governor, I believe that we will begin to rise together.

Chaytan Inman (D)

A governor’s job is to empower and represent life, not govern it. We need someone who addresses the root of our self destruction, not the symptom, and someone who has the humility to seek less power, not more.

Leon Lawson (Trump Republican)

Truth

Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters)

The guy with the muscle (physical or say legal) wants to get into the fight and calls himself a leader. And the key word they use is that they want to FIGHT for YOU. When you hear this phrase, you should know you’ve beed trapped.

The guy with brain will create the conditions to prevent the fight from occuring. Many times those so called leaders will lead you off a cliff, while humble wise guy will just simply say : stop! To prevent you from falling, misery, injury, etc, whatever it may be.

It is very important to know and understand the following:

1\. What is disease, what is causing it and why it is happening. 2\. What is crime, what is causing it and why it is happening

3\. What is punishment, what is causing it and why it is happening. What is the proper definition of the word punishment and what is this punishment designed for?

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

“A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent.” — Douglas MacArthur

Integrity: One must govern with a pure heart in all that you do, with the utmost integrity. An official must never use his or her office to favor partisan in support of or in opposition, even in social media accounts. We must uphold the checks and balances of our US Constitution. We must be a people above reproach.

Transparency: I believe the people of Washington has a right to an open policy when conducting all business of the state. Emails and other communications must be secured with a permanent record for immediate opening when government requested.

Independent: To stand firm in treating all parties fairly adhering to the laws of the state. It is imperative that this stand is taken when making decisions affecting contributors.

Fairness: Open communication can mitigate potential issues of unfairness. State administrators must be fair in reaching out to all community stakeholders when making decisions that could seem potentially biased. We don’t endorse or make gifts to candidates that support or oppose ballot issues. Exemplify high standards when contracting for services like open and competitive biddings.

Competence: We must serve all precincts with equitable attention to detail. There must be wisdom, knowledge, and understanding in the official capacity of office.

Mark Mullet (D)

You need to be able to work in a bipartisan fashion to solve the challenges facing our state. We have too much political name calling at the national level, we need to set a better example in Washington state about how you can get things done.

When I earned my Master's in Public Affairs from the Evans School at the University of Washington in 2008 the message was simple. Good leaders are not focused on speaking, but rather focused on listening. During my time in the Senate I have gone out of my way to listen to all the voices, both urban and rural, and eastern and western Washington, to make sure everybody's concerns are being addressed.

You can also ask any of the Senators who have served with me for the past twelve years, I have always kept every promise and have never gone back on my word. We need leaders who the voters know they can trust to be honest, and this has been my track record in the Senate. I would rather be honest and tell the truth than try to make everybody happy by changing my tune depending on what group I am speaking with.

Dave Reichert (R)

Leadership. Integrity. Service. Teamwork.

Don Rivers (D)

Promoting transparency, accountability and implementing strict campaign finance reforms to limit the influence of money in politics and to prevent corruption.

Establishing a robust system to track and fully disclose political contributions and expenditures. Strengthen whistleblower protections to encourage individuals within government to report corruption without fear of retaliation. Enforce stricter penalties for public officials involved in corrupt practices. Enhance Ethics and Conduct Standards. Implement rigorous ethics training and codes of conduct for elected officials and public officials. Strengthen conflict of interest laws and enforce them effectively. Promote the establishment of an independent ethics commission to investigate allegations of corruption and misconduct.

Strengthen legal frameworks by reviews and update existing laws related to government transparency, procurement, and accountability to ensure they are comprehensive and aligned with the best practices. Establish mechanisms for more efficient and effective prosecution of corrupt officials, including specialized anti-corruption courts or units.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

First and foremost, integrity. We're seeing INCREDIBLE integrity issues in our current elected officials. The example that comes to mind is the fact that the governor appoints the head of the Executive Ethics Board, who decides the outcome of ethical violations against the executive branch, like the governor. An elected official with integrity would have addressed this immediately. Second, an elected official needs to know the value of a dollar and frankly, I don't see ANY elected officials who know the value of a dollar. An example of this is passing legislation that gives those who home violent sex offenders $35K per month, when a large portion of constituents barely make that much in a year. If they knew the value of a dollar, that would have never been an option. A third principle important for an elected official is truth. Truth isn't convenient, or glamorous or pretty; it doesn't get you votes, nor popularity nor friends. Truth is not relative to the circumstance or the political party, and for too long we've allowed elected officials to hide behind their title and their peers, without telling us the TRUTH.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

Elected officials are first and foremost representatives of their constituents - as a public figure one of the most important principles an elected official must understand is that they must represent the public interest over their personal interest, while also maintaining that they are not a passive entity in the process.

Elected officials are elected to represent a constituency but they are also elected to do a job and provide leadership such that they may surpass the attention, expertise, and judgement most members of the public are able or willing to put into society's issues. In this way, they are supposed to combine the best of the public they represent and what they have to offer as an individual elected to lead.

Doing this is incredibly challenging and requires the synthesis of many skills, characteristics, and principles key among them integrity - the ability to act in the public interest over personal interest, respect for government - those who don't should not presume to govern, empathy - essential to the understanding of the many needs of the public, and last a love for people, planet, and collective prosperity.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Semi Bird (R)

A genuine love of people and desire to help others

Edward Cale (D)

I am dedicated to the mission and calling I have to abolish the oppressive script and promote the people's will and correction to the system via the Freedom Project.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

Servant leadership and doing one's best to equally serve all constituents. I also believe in respectful dialog, finding common ground, and compromise to create legislative solutions and have signed the Building Bridges Candidate Pledge. As an independent candidate, I am not aligned with any political party and am not forced into any ideological pigeon-holes. My engineering background and analytical skills seek the data that will enable informed and rational decisions that do the most positive impact for the most people.

William Combs (Independent)

Tenacious to a fault. When confronted with a problem, I do not stop until it is solved. I am never afraid to take up new challenges.

Michael DePaula (L)

I believe being a Generalist--someone who has experience across a wide variety of skills, professions, and interests--has served me well in my adult life. I obsess over details with each "rabbit hole" I jump into, but the Albert Einstein quote resonates with me nonetheless: "The more I learn, the more I realize how much I don't know." This leads to a desire to "collect" a handful of experts who claim to know and studying their opinions for a richer life experience.

And while I think those working in government can be served well by having a background in law or political science, I think the common tactic of going with the career politician who traditionally have had these backgrounds has actually served us poorly in the long run. We could use more everyday men and woman with passion running for office and less "professional politicians".

Beyond these, I think dogged determinism, empathy, justice, and humility all have a part to play in a good leader.

Fred Grant (D)

I believe that I have many qualities that would make me a successful officeholder. If I could describe myself in one word it would be "driven." I am a doer. Once I put my mind to something I will pursue it, and I can promise if you ask anyone that knows me they will agree. I work well with others and communicate effectively. I set realistic goals and deadlines and allow ample time to complete each project. I have lived in areas of the USA with polar opposite political ideals and understand the miscommunication that takes place. This unique perspective I think is very rare and I believe it to be my best trait.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

I have been told I have the heart of a mother and the spirit of a lion. I am a defender of the weak and those who are oppressed. I am a fighter, I'm not a quitter, and I fight hard to win a better outcome on behalf of those in need.

Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters)

Alan doesn’t need this job but this job needs Alan, because he has what no other candidate has. And that is the vision and the proper ideology to transform the society from where it is now into a better place. He is superior in knowledge, in education and in experience. He has a better understanding of what’s happening, why it’s happening and what needs to be done and how it needs to be accomplished. And he is the most capable to get it done because his achievements and balance sheet speak for themselves. Compare that to the top money raisers - FOREVER politicians and government employees WITH NON-EXISTENT BUSINESS EXPERIENCE and no real clue on what to do.

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

I carry within my veins of ancestorial leadership, with the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. A leader who lives by the equality of my actions and the integrity of my intent. As I uphold the checks and balances of our US Constitution. I possess the imperative characteristics of transparency and independence to stand firm in treating all parties fairly adhering to the laws of the state. Especially when making decisions affecting contributors. Fairness in open communication which will mitigate potential issues of unfairness when reaching out to all community stakeholders when making decisions that could seem potentially biased. We don’t endorse or make gifts to candidates that support or oppose ballot issues. Exemplify high standards when contracting for services like open and competitive biddings. I possess the competence to serve all precincts with equitable attention to detail. I am gifted with imperial wisdom, knowledge, and understanding in the official capacity of office in which to establish order and to repair what has been divided among you. I am fully armored with the necessary tools in which to serve, lead, support, and protect the people of the State of Washington to a fulfilled resolution of change. The American flag was weaved together for the American people to work together, not separate, whether Democrat, Republican, or other, we will began a new era of trust and restored as one people. “We The People of.”

Mark Mullet (D)

Honesty and integrity.

Dave Reichert (R)

I am an independent thinker who looks at facts when making decisions.

Don Rivers (D)

For the last 40 plus years, I have been a professional advisor to elected officials (nationally and internationally including attorneys and the judicial system of judges ), veterans and military soldiers. I have also advised clergy, business executives, and I have always protected and advised the citizens of Washington State on how to have a better quality of life. I have been a special advisor to law enforcement agencies and advocated for the criminal justice system to be fair in all areas of justice. I believe in the people and I will always stand-up for the people of Washington State.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

I read, write and speak law. I lead compassionately and aggressively. I cannot be propagandized. I cannot be gaslit. I cannot be purchased, scared or otherwise intimidated. I have no political favors I owe. I have no corporate favors I owe. I change my mind based on evidence. I don't listen to others without verifying. I actually represent the People. What benefits the People benefits me. I don't need the People to join an ideology to support me. I don't require the People to declare their affiliation. I don't offer to punish the People through legislation. I don't offer to punish the corporations and political parties through legislation, but they will no longer be priority. I embrace change and wear it like a suit of clothing, as 2020 made most of us adaptable on a dime. I'm not scared to trailblaze, I'm not scared to anger the Establishment, I'm not scared to have propaganda campaigns smear me. I'm not scared to voice "People over Profits". I'm not scared to stand up when everyone else is crouched in fear.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

I believe I synthesize an unusual blend of skills that makes me uniquely effective at civic endeavors. I believe I am able to bridge the divide that often exists between movement leaders, policy developers, and political officeholders through my communication skills. I believe that my ability to approach problems from many different angles allows me to craft more thorough and creative solutions.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Ricky Anthony (D)

The elected official has a core responsibility to be mindful, highly self-aware, and informed about varying cultures and sub-cultures through a wide range of personal interactions, both locally and internationally. On the strength of selfless service, leveraging the knowledge gained from diverse experiences and perspectives is not just important but crucial to ensure safety and that people are not living vulnerable and defenseless.

For this reason, an elected official has a responsibility to demonstrate intellect when handling sensitive matters in this role, they should lead with empathy and insight, fostering decisions that mirror wisdom and understanding. This approach is key to promoting stability and addressing the needs of all. Therefore, upon taking office, they must introduce proposals to mitigate risks, identify overlooked hazards, and ease vulnerabilities by advancing real solutions for all, not just for a select few.

Most importantly, an elected official's primary responsibility is to uphold sovereignty and ensure community safety. On the same note, they are entrusted with the noble duty of ensuring safety by deterring civil disorder and any attempts to dismantle or aggressively seek to reform an existing government system.

Handle sensitive topics: Resolve climate issues, extinguish smoldering conflicts, and quell potentially rising temperatures to decrease the possibility of civil unrest.

Mitigate survival instincts in individuals, which could potentially dispel reasonable behavior, escalate gun-related deaths and crime, and exacerbate socio-political instability.

Semi Bird (R)

Protect and maintain the individual rights of Washington citizens

Brian Bogen (No party preference)

The governor's core responsibilities include fostering an environment that encourages collaboration, problem-solving, and inclusivity in government. This approach to governing allows room to find common ground on long-term solutions for the state’s most pressing challenges. I am dedicated to ensuring greater government transparency and accountability while emphasizing listening to community needs. The next governor must focus on sustainable, long-term well-being for Washington State, aiming to bridge divides and move the state forward together.

Edward Cale (D)

Calling, and ability to actually change the system and make it transparent and fair. Society is not this way because Government has unequal and contradictory laws and policies.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

A core responsibility is to make this state a better place for everybody to live. To choose the issues to lead on that will be the most impactful to the public health of as many people as possible. And to conserve our national resources and preserve our environment for future generations.

William Combs (Independent)

Ensure that everyone's basic rights are upheld and demonstrate basic human civility and courtesy as an example for all to follow.

Michael DePaula (L)

1\. To defend the state constitution,

2\. To veto/sign bills into law, as appropriate, 3\. To make political appointments as required by the state constitution, 4\. To grant pardons, as appropriate, 5\. To monitor the actions of state officers,

6\. To act as commander-in-chief to the state military

Fred Grant (D)

The Governor of Washington has a number of responsibilities, including:

-Supervising the conduct of all executive and ministerial offices. -Ensuring that all offices are filled. -Appointing the heads of departments, agencies, and institutions. -Serving as commander-in-chief of the Washington Militia.

-Enforcing state laws

Jennifer Hoover (R)

I believe an Isaiah 1 compilation says it best:

"To wash and clean ourselves and remove evil deeds (corruption) from our site. 'To stop doing what is evil and wrong. 'To learn to do right, to seek justice and correct the oppressor. 'To defend the fatherless and plead the cause of the widow and the orphan.

'To come together in one United state, and reason together so that we can bring healing too our current situation."

Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters)

Fiduciary duties

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

As governor the first responsibility would be to establish a positive relationship with the legislature. We are workers together, whether democrat or republican.

The US flag represents unity as the colors are red, white, and blue. There is no separation in our flag, so why should there be disunity among the people. We will work together! The governor's primary responsibilities are to: Serve as the state's chief executive officer and oversees the functions of the executive branch of government. Report to the General Assembly and the citizens of Washington on the condition of the state each January. Recommend legislation to the General Assembly. Review bills that are approved by both the House and Senate.

The governor can sign the legislation and it will become law. If a bill is vetoed, it is returned to the General Assembly. Issue executive orders on matters important to the state. Serve as commander-in-chief of the state's armed forces. He also may grant reprieves, commutations, and pardons. Qualifications and tenure Legislative—including budget and veto—authority, Appointment sovereignty, and Clemency authority.

Mark Mullet (D)

You need to effectively manage our state agencies. In my previous role as a Managing Director at Bank of America, I ran a global business with operations in Asia, Europe, and the United States. I learned how to manage teams of people in a way that motivated them to work hard, but made sure everybody was being treated fairly.

I have applied this same mentality to running my four Ben & Jerry's scoop shops and my Zeeks Pizza restaurant today. We motivate our staff to work hard, but make sure everybody is treated fairly.

This is the mentality we need in the Governor's office. We have to get more bang for our buck out of our current tax dollars, not just keep asking for new taxes every year. To do this successfully we will need a Governor who is focused on getting productivity out of our state agencies, not just trying to find a new program to start to get on the evening news.

Dave Reichert (R)

Servant leadership.

Don Rivers (D)

In the past, I have always paid for my own campaigns when I have run for a public office. I felt like how can I ask for people's hard-earned money, and not put my hard-working earnings into my fate. Believing that people are looking for a real change because they are tired of the "Do as I say but not as I do” politicians and public servants. Someone that will listen to and engage with the community while effectively communicating their concerns to the appropriate legislative or administrative bodies. I will take with me to any public office the 3L’s - Listen, Learn then Lead because elected officials should serve as representatives of their constituents as well as be an advocate for their interests and their needs.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

The core responsibilities are as follows:

1\. Upholding the state and federal Constitution. 2\. Preventing corruption. 3\. Protecting the People. 4\. Employing logic and common sense to solve issues, free of political party influence and agenda.

5\. Administer the executive office duties as required by law.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

The first core responsibility of the Governor is to represent the entire state and all its people regardless of who voted them into office. A deep understanding of the state and its people must be instilled into the Governor's agenda, political appointments, staffing decisions, and the entire administration.

The Governor is the chief executive of the state of Washington elected by a statewide majority and therefore has a mandate with which to set broad vision for the state government including policy goals as well as regulatory standards through agencies and administrative and executive policy regarding how the Governor intends to execute the laws of the land.

The Governor is a public servant and must maintain a high degree of accessibility and transparency to public both directly and through the press. The Governor must listen to the needs of constituents and be responsive to them. Especially in times of emergency and crisis the Governor may need to take executive action in order to quickly resolve issues before they get worse and keep the people of Washington safe.

However, the Governor must also recognize that they do not lead alone and must govern with the consent and participation of the public via both direct citizen participation and through the elected legislature. A Governor must build coalition, partnership, and solidarity with the public, the legislature, the federal government, and the courts in order to design and implement real solutions that will stand the test of time and continue to deliver to the people.

What legacy would you like to leave?

Semi Bird (R)

Changing peoples lives for the better

Brian Bogen (No party preference)

I want my legacy to be one of unity and progress, where I worked with people from all political affiliations to achieve our shared goals of strong communities, good schools, a clean environment, and economic opportunity for all. Throughout my life, I've seen that despite our differences, we all aspire to these fundamental values. I hope to be remembered as someone who was part of a team that brought Washington State back on track for a sustainable future. My aim is to leave behind a state where collaboration and innovative solutions have paved the way for lasting prosperity. Ultimately, I want to be known for fostering a brighter future for our children and generations to come.

Edward Cale (D)

From a very young age (3rd grade) I embarked on a mission to do what I will now implement and complete if elected.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

To be able to change the laws in Washington State to equally protect the rights of all fit, willing, and able parents to be equal participants in their children's lives. This would help fix the root cause issue of our family law courts creating a public health crisis.

William Combs (Independent)

A system of high quality roads for motorcycle tourism that connects many towns and cities which provides the best open road experience.

Michael DePaula (L)

I hold no aspirations for a life of politics and believe the best politicians view their time as public servants to be one of brevity and high impact. For my part, I would like people to look back at my time in office and point to how I led us through the recession and made us financially better off, not only as a state, but individually than we started, all while restoring our individual liberties.

Fred Grant (D)

I want to do my best and inspire more people to get involved.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

I would like to leave a legacy behind of safer, better protected, more prosperous and advancing communities that can sleep better at night. Communities where every person has a great purpose in life, and every child reaches to take hold of the stars!

Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters)

Free superior heathcare for all at no extra cost .

Superior education system. Lowest crime rate in history, overhauled department of correctins.

Society that knows and understands what Purpose of Life is and what are the most important three things in life.

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

“Like two eagles soar as one upon the river of the wind with the promise of forever, we will take the past and learn how to begin.” — Pocahontas

Never forget the voices of the cloud of witnesses gone before us. If we fail to learn from our mistakes we will continue to repeat the past, this will surely destroy a nation.

If we the people of America allow truth, wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and faith to be our leaning post, we will never stand crooked. For together we stand, divided we fall. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Mark Mullet (D)

I would like a state where you feel the government is working for you regardless of where you fall on the political spectrum. I'm tired of Republicans moving to other states because they feel that Olympia ignores their concerns. We can work in a bipartisan manner to make sure all the voices are being heard.

Don Rivers (D)

I'd like to leave a legacy that portrays my morality, values, principles and ethics. My ability to always be proactive rather than less reactive as a leader in all areas of life. This is something that is desperately needed in society these days.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

A legacy of strength, integrity and truth. The accomplishments of the last 100 years have been tainted by greed, arrogance and perpetual peonage and we will not bring that behavior, that arrogant and willful dishonesty, to the next generations, in the name of national security. The things the past generations have done to the People are so horrific they are unspeakable. A legacy would be to turn this around and refuse to carry that horrific baggage into the future. Refusing to lie to our children about politicians and political parties in our governments. Refusing to lie to OURSELVES about how political parties use our government positions to divorce us from our own rights. Refusing to SEE what our eyes and ears tell us, to create a comfortable narrative for our own selves. Refusing to see what the Founding Fathers warned us about, set us up to prevent and constructed the groundwork TO prevent. I would like to leave a legacy of truth in government for the first time in hundreds of years. I would like a legacy of eradicating political party involvement in our government. There is no room for the left and right; there is only room for logic in the middle.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

I would like to be remembered for creating a grand vision of the future that inspires the actions large and small from many for years to come.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Ricky Anthony (D)

When I was just years 11-year-old, I stood up to a bully. In response, he threatened to bring his dad's gun to school and take my life. The very next day, he attempted to follow through on his threat.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

When John Lennon was shot. I was in 6th grade and they brought us to the gymnasium bleachers to share the news.

William Combs (Independent)

The Gas Crisis of the 70's stemming form the Arab-Israeli war.

Michael DePaula (L)

I recall the day the Challenger space shuttle exploded. I was home sick from school and had the TV on when the news aired the footage of the liftoff and eventual demise of the flight. Being interested in space (as most kids of the 80s were), I had one of those signed replica images of the Challenger crew on my nightstand and the loss stuck with me for years.

Fred Grant (D)

There were many historical events that I remember happening, but I'd say the biggest one that impacted me was 9/11. I was about thirteen years-old when it happened and my dad often commuted to Washington D.C. and it gave us quite the scare since he happened to be there on that day.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

I was a kid when Mount Saint Helens erupted, and I remember there was gray ash everywhere on the ground, in the trees and everywhere! We were visiting Seattle at the time, and we all had to wear our white masks. I also remember Christmas glass ornaments being made out of that ash. All of which was created some pretty amazing memorabilia from Washington State Mount St Helens ash.

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

On November 22, 1963, John F. Kennedy, the 35th president of the United States, was assassinated while riding in a presidential motorcade through Dealey Plaza in Dallas.

I was 5-years old, but I remember so distinctively because I watched my mother cry all day.

Five years later on Thursday, 4 April 1968 at 6:05 P.M., Martin Luther King was shot dead while standing on a balcony outside his second-floor room at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee.

This was the day the church was called a fast, and no one was allowed to eat all day and my stomach was crying! I was 10-years old. My whole community was paralyzed.

Mark Mullet (D)

I remember the Sonics winning the NBA championship in 1979. People were driving up and down my street in Tukwila honking their horns and screaming with joy. I

Don Rivers (D)

The Detroit of Riot 1967 when I was 12 years old. Standing on my porch with a broom stick determined to protect my family's home from any and all danger my dad got home.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

The first event I paid significant attention to was 9/11.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

I remember the WTO protests of 1999 - I was eight years old.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

Ricky Anthony (D)

Lakewood Mall - Mcdonalds: 1998-2000

Edward Cale (D)

I worked at a camp/retreat center, Camp Berachah, underage (15yrs old), in food service for both adults and children, and also in a school cafeteria, underage (15yrs) at my high school. So, I pretty much went to school full time at Kent View Christian High School, and worked part time at the retreat center 20 hours on Thursday-Saturday, and 5-10 hours Monday through Friday during lunch hour for the school at the retreat center. I worked there for an entire summer and school year in 10th grade.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

My first job when I was probably 10 or 11 was mowing my dad's 5-acre lawn on a Ford riding mower. I did that for the next few years until I moved out of state.

William Combs (Independent)

United States Navy. 4 years enlisted.

Michael DePaula (L)

Having long been interested in Japan from a young age, I took an interview with a Japanese publisher (Chuoh Publishing) based in Nagoya to teach English at one of their local schools during my senior year at USC and got offered the job. It set my mind at ease knowing I could explore Japan while earning a paycheck and building my network in the local music scene. I ended up being offered the principal horn position for a local volunteer orchestra--the Nagoya Sinfonia--while still at Chuoh Publishing.

Fred Grant (D)

My first full-time job out of college was at Crawford Media Services in Atlanta, GA. I worked as a video editor and made many commercials, promotional materials, and short form videos. I believe I had the position for about 2 years before moving on to The Weather Channel as a video producer.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

I delivered pizza at Domino's, and that was quite interesting. I was there when we through raw sausage on top, we had the Noid and they first invented that octagon box. That was for about 3 years and then I became a drum teacher and actually won the Lilac Parade two years in a row!

Chaytan Inman (D)

The first job I can remember having was picking up sticks in our backyard. Every so often it happens in the Pacific Northwest that a grand wind storm comes and rips down strong Douglas Fir branches. As a kid, with the wind rapping at the window panes on dark gloomy mornings, we would find that these winter storms had strewn pinecones, twigs, sticks and pine needles across our backyard in an unholy cacophony. So begrudgingly, we bundled up and my mom, perhaps feeling merciful that day, would offer us a cent per stick we picked up. ( I recall in later years that after a little union protesting we got up to five). And so for the better part of one of those rainy, gray days we gathered fallen Douglas Fir sticks from the yard and put them in a yard waste can. When we got back inside to the crackling fireplace, we reported our totals and received our pay – as you can imagine, usually about $2.

I wouldn’t have admitted it at the time, and it may just be the nostalgia speaking, but I loved that job. I remember the clear air that smelled so poignantly of the pine needles and sap from the freshly snapped branches and was steeped in the smells of the mud from the fresh rains. The yard was a place I helped shape. I did not own it. I certainly did not control it. But I was a part of it. We tended the trees, the plants, we were a part of the water and nutrients that cycled through the soil, we shaped and prevented eroding soil and cared for the ecosystems of plants around the massive roots of the fir trees.

This was my first job, and in a sense, it is still my only job.

Leon Lawson (Trump Republican)

I delivered Hay

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

I was 12 years old working in the summer program for the red cross as a trained microfilm researcher and filer for two years.

Mark Mullet (D)

I worked at a bakery in Tukwila. I started the day I got my driver's license. I worked there during my junior year of high school.

Don Rivers (D)

I was a Volunteer Youth Advisor in Detroit City at the age of 16. It was during the Vietnam War era and most people were being drafted and serving in the military, so I felt it was my civic duty to step up and do my part to help out my country. I also worked at McDonalds as a shift manager.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

My first job was a dog bather. I live in Yelm, just outside of Olympia and received $5 dollars an hour from the local dog groomer shop. I kept that job for a few months, and then a Pizza Hut opened up in town, so I went to work for them.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

I worked at my college paper first as a writer and later as an editor. I worked there for three years.

What is your favorite book? Why?

Ricky Anthony (D)

One book that has stood by me throughout my 20 years in the army and has accompanied me on every deployment is "The Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren. A copy of his book found its way to me during a challenging period, gifting me with a new school of thought about faith, trust, and a sense of purpose during adversity. Several of the book's messages resonated with me deeply. Phrases like "service, not serve us," "The best use of life is love, "Love concentrates so intently on another that you forget yourself at the moment," and "Whenever you give time, you are making a sacrifice and sacrifice are the essence of love."

My way of thinking evolved, shifting my attitude throughout my journey, asking "whose needs I can meet rather than who will meet mine." Furthermore, I recognized that, most often, life's difficulties may not always be deliberate acts to cause physical, mental, or emotional setbacks. Above all, they are customary stepping stones towards growth, adventure, and self-discovery.

I bring these lessons with me: selfless service, focusing intently on people's needs and well-being. I am committed to using my time in office to enhance citizens' lives, not merely enduring the role but enjoying the privilege and responsibility it brings.

Semi Bird (R)

The Far Pavilions a cultural adventure romance MM Kay

Edward Cale (D)

I don't like reading books :). but I do when I need information. I love electronic reading and communicating, however. I've always been this way.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

Generation X: Tales for An Accelerated Culture by Douglas Coupland. I first read it the summer of 1992 when I found myself working as an office temp stuffing envelopes for slightly more than minimum wage after graduating college that spring with a Computer Systems Engineering degree. The promise of a high paying and technically challenging future seemed frustratingly distant as I learned what a McJob was.

William Combs (Independent)

The Odyssey. A man who keeps a clear vision of his destination despite the perils thrust upon him by malevolent forces.

Michael DePaula (L)

"Basic Economics: A Common Sense Guide to the Economy" by Thomas Sowell

Fred Grant (D)

I don’t really have a favorite book, but some good ones that come to mind are: 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone', 'Holes', 'Ender’s Game', 'The Time Machine', ‘The Golden Compass’, ‘The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe’, and I’m sure there are many more.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

Of course I'm going to say the Bible, but I really do like Ecclesiastes. It's very deep and mesmerizing at the same time.

EL'ona Kearney (D)

Maya Angelou's 'I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings' resonates with me deeply. I can relate to many of the experiences and observations she shares. Birds are inherently meant to be free, soaring through the air, and taking chances in their natural habitat. Similarly, we humans sing as an expressive act, a source of hope, motivation, and a means of coping with life's challenges. This book serves as a poignant reminder that our youth continue to suffer because, as a society, we have yet to learn how to set aside our differences and work together toward the common goal of healing ourselves, our communities, and the world.

Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters)

Yoga Therapy by S. Shivananda Data Tutashkhia by Chabua Amiredzhibi

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

Democracy in America by Alexis de Tocqueville

Alexis de Tocqueville observed the equality of conditions, importance of political participation, influence of religion, and individualism in American society. Democracy in America's summary focuses on the main idea that occupied Tocqueville's thought, namely equality. Tocqueville's later volumes in Democracy in America tend to broaden his reflections to cover the nature of democracy and the trends of his era.

With the understanding that with the founding fathers equality was not equal when it came to African Americans, and Tocqueville was independent enough within himself to bring it to the forefront on his writhings.

Mark Mullet (D)

Into thin air by Jon Krakauer. I love to hike in the mountains, and this is an amazing story about the 1996 Everest climbing season.

Don Rivers (D)

The Bible because it is a road map for all society. I would say Michelle Obama's book “Becoming” because it expresses a woman's thoughts and desires and how they see society and also “Rich Dad, Poor Dad" by Robert Kiyosaki because it tells of the importance of financial intelligence.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

Oh, friends we don't have just ONE favorite book, no, no, no, no. One favorite book is for people who don't actually read, or who only read fiction. I only read fiction if I have to, or when I was younger, so my favorite fiction book is Gone with the Wind. Now, my favorite nonfiction books would be more than the number of characters I'm allotted here, which is exactly 2000. I've said it before, and I'm saying it again, it's best not to participate in mainstream nonfiction because it's all propaganda to sway you either for or against political party agendas that have weaponized facets of our lifestyles against us. I prefer books like "And the Band Played On", so we know how horrifically the AIDS virus was handled. "The Jamestown Experiment", so we can see what they were doing to us without us even knowing what was happening, and how they were going to use that information in the future. "The Case for Vaccine mandates", "The Case Against Vaccine Mandates", both of these are vaccine propaganda books from Kent Heckenlively and Alan Dershowitz and frankly, neither case was strong, and specifically the Case For vaccines was incredibly weak coming from an attorney. "Emerging Viruses", is the real story on what our grandparents and our parents were doing with gain of function viruses. "Radiation Nation", shows us how horrible man-made electromagnetic energy is for the body. Then there is, "The Anatomy of Fascism", "The Rich and the Rest of Us", which is Cornell West pro-poor propaganda. "A Higher Form of Killing", which is a history of biological weapons testing and usage, and especially the book entitled "How to Lie with Statistics", because it helps you identify the statistical fallacies in the political party arguments.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Semi Bird (R)

NEO

Edward Cale (D)

I have always liked James Bond or Resident Evil movies, I loved Jurassic Park the book and movie as a child. I also loved the Simpsons, then Garfield and later Calvin and Hobbes.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

MacGyver because I like to use science, engineering, and logic to solve problems.

William Combs (Independent)

Johnny Appleseed. Traveling the country planting trees and making the world better for all people.

Michael DePaula (L)

Paul Atreides from Dune.

Fred Grant (D)

Batman for sure! Sonic The Hedgehog is a close second. I guess you could say I would want to be Batman, but Sonic is my hero.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

Probably a horse running on the great terrain, even though I grew up liking lizards and frogs.

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

Wonder Woman

Mark Mullet (D)

Homer Simpson. He is constantly getting into fun adventures that always end up well in the end.

Don Rivers (D)

I would be “Popeye” because I believe in standing up for the underdog cause nobody should be bullied by anyone.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

I feel like most of our mainstream fictional characters have been manipulatively created to propagandize us to view and live life in a certain way. The Establishment uses many different tactics to keep us under control and using inspirational fictional characters and "history" to convince us of outright lies, is one of those tactics. The good news is, we now see all the Establishments tactics and it doesn't appear they came up with any new ones in the last hundred years. Sad for them.

So, if I could be any fictional character, I'd be the slaves that rose up against the masters. I'd be the housewives and husbands that ACTUALLY stood up against slavery. I'd be the ACTUAL civil rights leaders that made the movement what it was.

I'd be Bernice Eddy. I'd be Edward Snowden. I'd be Brooke Jackson. I'd be Scott Smith. I'd DEFINITELY be Scott Smith.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Semi Bird (R)

Empire State of Mind Jay Z

Edward Cale (D)

I write music myself, I record now using Pro Tools X, I used to record in Protools but it was expensive and out of reach for the most part. I am now working on a new album. My band is called The North Star Theory, it is Triune Electronic Rock.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

In The Waiting Line by Zero 7.

Michael DePaula (L)

"The River" by Rich Mullins

Fred Grant (D)

Funny story, but I recently went back to my hometown for the holidays and drove my old car and it had a Seal (the artist) CD stuck in it. So, his entire album from 1991 has been stuck in my head.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

UP by Tauren Wells

Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters)

This country.... is involved in wars, on every part of earth.

It’s killing people .... to get their wealth, from them - for Their higher net worth.

For those, the elitiest few - the heartless, as they are.

They lie, they say it’s for your good, we’ll get you a free car.

They think they are smart. They have control: of news, TV and Courts.

They vaccinate you under stiff force, And mask all entry ports.

You keep electing same fools, Just different face - that’s all

Your odds of picking a better guy, Are higher with power ball.

You studied poorly in school. Your knowledge - Google taught.

You cannot tell the Lies from Truth. You ARE getting fooled ... a lot.

All can’t be smart, All can’t be rich, All can’t be Beauty queens.

You’ve all been duped! You are chasing Dreams! But ... Somebody else’s dreams.

......................................................

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

Well, it's time to make that change

People of the world today are fading All of us have our ups and downs You better think about it or you won't be around What we need is a little bit of love Sent by One from Heaven above Take it from "T.", it's simple and plain This ain't no game, you know what I'm sayin'?

[Chorus: It's time, time to make a change (We are the people who can do it It's time (Time) time to make a change We are His people, we can do it

[Verse 2: What is the world coming to? Seems like everyone is running from the truth We must stand up and fight Walk into the light We are the people, we can do it, if we try

[Chorus: It's time, time to make a change (We are the people who can do it It's time (Time) time to make a change

We are His people, we can do it.

Mark Mullet (D)

Brightside by the Lumineers.

Don Rivers (D)

”We Are The World” by Quincy Jones. It not only united a nation but the world through music.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

I work 40 hours a week in patient care and the other day a gal and her mom came in and we all started singing "A bushel and a peck", which I hadn't heard in almost 35 years. That was a nice experience, and that song was stuck in my head for several days.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Semi Bird (R)

Nothing - thankful

Jim Clark (No party preference)

The family law court system at every level has been the greatest struggle and biggest obstacle that has held me back in life.

The past 15 years of my life have been completely and unnecessarily changed by the fight to first get equal shared custody of my two children and then for the next 12 years trying to get a child support order that shared support through what is called a residential credit deviation. In all my years, in perhaps dozens of court hearings and going all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court in 2020, never once could I get a ruling or order from the court that equally protected both parental homes.

Fighting for parental equality takes up a considerable portion of my free time even as my children are now both in college and there are no more child custody or child support orders to litigate. I believe if I can reform the court system and make equal shared parenting the default option for all parents in Washington State, then something good will have come out of all my struggles and time spent.

Michael DePaula (L)

I have always been a perfectionist and struggled for years with the act of delegation which I often perceived as affecting the ideal outcomes I'd envisioned for a project or goal.

Fred Grant (D)

I have fallen down time and time again, but it’s important to pick myself up and keep trying. I don’t take anything for granted and strive to make the most out of every single day. Also, seeing people and animals struggle and literally being powerless to do anything about it affects me greatly.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

Through the years, I have learned to overcome my fears with greater steps of faith, and to help others to have the same bold courage, so they can also overcome their fears and do greater things than they ever dreamed or imagined.

Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters)

Finding smart, sincere, brave people.

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

Time! There is much I would like to speak into the lives of the younger generation of the American people, but time may not permit me to do so.

Mark Mullet (D)

I poured boiling water on my chest when I was 18 months old. I spent several months in Seattle Children's hospital getting skin graphs for my chest. To this day, I have to wear a shirt whenever I am in the sun because if I get a sunburn on my chest I would have to go back to the hospital. Lucky for me, swimming shirts are now all the rage so nobody thinks twice when you are wearing one (this was not the case when I was growing up in the 70's and 80's).

Don Rivers (D)

Why people’s lack of understanding of racism and greed can be at the forefront of 90% of corporate and political success and their hesitation to challenge the status quo.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

Holding politicians accountable for their actions. Especially when they deviate from their oaths of office or required duties. I'm realizing the public servants that go outside of their duties can be held personally liable for those actions and will not be immune from prosecution. If the executive usurps legislative function during their scope of employment, the executive can be held personally liable for what was done outside of that scope of employment. I'm in the beginning phases of researching the elected official bonds, and how to take them in court as damages for going outside of their scope of employment. Other than this, I have no struggles in life per se, because I walk in logic and common sense, and I don't lack the courage nor investigative skills of my convictions.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

I sometimes don't know when to let go of a goal or project

A governor is the top executive authority in his or her state. What does that mean do you?

Semi Bird (R)

As the Chief Executive Officer of Washington state, the governor is responsible for the efficient and effective operation of the government. With a mindset of creating value for our citizen shareholders, the governor must strive for continuous improvement of government operations in order to reduce operational costs and improve organizational effectiveness.

As a Behavioral Scientist and subject matter expert in organizational development I am uniquely qualified to oversee and influence the improvement of state program capability through the alignment of strategy, structure, people, rewards, metrics, and management processes.

The governor must be a steward of taxpayer dollars with an obligation of fiscal accountability and budget transparency. The governor must strike a balance between manager and leader of the largest organization in the state. Overseeing operations and operating by, with, and through organizational leaders is key. I have consulted all levels of leadership as a business consultant, and served as a Federal Director of Training and Leadership Development. I will drive organizational excellence in state government and facilitate growth and prosperity for Washington citizens.

Brian Bogen (No party preference)

I believe the core responsibility for any executive authority (and especially a governor) is to avoid hyper-partisanship and find common ground that best serves the people and respects the rights of all citizens. I believe that governors must avoid a my-way-or-the-highway approach and instead foster a collaborative environment. As governor, I am committed to bringing together the best minds, diverse ideas, and innovative solutions for open debate. This inclusive approach will help craft the best policies to address the pressing issues facing our state. Success for me means being part of a process that moves Washington forward for the benefit of all its residents.

Edward Cale (D)

That with the people's help we can do more good more effectively across the entire state government and society.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

The priorities that the Governor sets are often times the legislative priorities that get enacted. Therefore, the governor has a power spotlight to highlight and address the most pressing issues that the state must solve. That means the governor must lead by educating both the public and the legislature on the importance of the various priorities each legislative session.

William Combs (Independent)

Provides guidance and leadership when tasking appropriate government agencies to solve problems. i.e. Finding suitable locations for large scale solar farms to alleviate the energy crisis. Directing the Department of Health in determining methods for stopping the spread of communicable STD's

Michael DePaula (L)

Americans of the past few decades tend to think of politicians as not only celebrities, but quasi-rulers even if, deep down, they know they're not (or certainly not supposed to be). Part of the letdown in modern politics stems, I think, from a lack of appreciation as to their specific function and the limits of the office itself. To be sure, the trend toward obfuscation, closed-door hearings and meetings, etc. can lead constituents to assign bad motives to those they elect when they don't succeed at passing whatever pet legislation they elected them to pass. As it pertains to being governor (and where I think I stand out from the other candidates), Washington desperately needs an executive who acts as a check against the very one-way direction our legislature has taken us. Politically, the nation has started to believe in "all or nothing" government, where we believe we can only succeed when our party controls two or more of the branches, but this is not only untrue, it's dangerous. Any good advisor will tell you it's of paramount importance to get second opinions, to weigh alternative viewpoints when making monumental decisions, and to proceed cautiously. At this particular stage, Washington needs someone who can say "no" to what has become the excess in Olympia; someone who is not beholden to either the Democratic or the Republican parties; someone who believes that the people, clawing back and retaining their property and civil rights takes precedence over the next new spending program as the economy worsens.

Fred Grant (D)

This is a simple answer. I have a vision for Washington and in this seat I can get this ball rolling. We can see positive changes happening faster. I can also protect against any radical legislature that I could see as having a negative impact on citizens. Marcus Aurelius said, "What isn't good for the bee is surely not good for the hive." I want people to feel as though I have their back and if there are issues then I will do my best to work on them.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

That's why I aimed for this seat, because it's the only place to really make needed changes. After seeing vulnerable widows and single senior citizens crying because their taxes became so high, that they had to return back to work, and while leaving my gym because (they're letting men in my locker room), and also hearing a woman next to me say she helps governmentally support a NINE member non-washingtonian family who are receiving free housing, room and board, vehicles and cell phones, while our beloved Veterans are still homeless, I decided to run for office.

Chaytan Inman (D)

Being the top authority in the state means personal leadership. It means getting my hands dirty and building something beautiful the hard way. That means physical dedication, discipline, and utmost commitment to my beliefs. That means the Earth and this corner of the Pacific Northwest will be left a better place than I found it. This means every single one of us will take responsibility for the change that we CAN make. Every single one of us will be a leader and example for the world to follow. We will accept the challenge of remaking the global mine pit into a life sustaining garden. I will lead with personal responsibility and commitment, and together we all will.

Leon Lawson (Trump Republican)

change, Accountability

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

As a Governor being the head of the executive branch elected by the people of Washington, has the responsibility is to protect and guard the people Washington State… As chief executive, Governors are responsible for ensuring their state is adequately prepared for emergencies and disasters of all types and sizes

The primary responsibilities are to: Serve as the state's chief executive officer, implement state laws, and oversees the functions of the executive branch of government.

There are also legislative responsibilities, as well as serving as an agent of communications with other states and the federal government. The Governor's executive branch responsibilities include appointing the heads of departments, agencies, and institutions.

Mark Mullet (D)

As I mentioned above, it means successfully managing our state agencies. We need to get back to a government that is more focused on outcomes and results, not just ideology. This is why I'm running for Governor, I know we can do better.

Dave Reichert (R)

Lead with integrity. Be honest with the people. Provide transparency in government. Execute and enforce the laws.

Don Rivers (D)

To me it means they are the head of the state appointed with the task to oversee his/her administration to implement policies and laws within their jurisdiction. Their job as your Governors is to be responsible for managing the state's budget, appointing government officials, and representing the state or territory in various capacities. They can also issue executive orders and exercise veto power over state legislation, while shaping the overall direction and governing things that matter for the best interest for the people of Washington State.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

That means ensuring the People's government is not used to meet political party goals and corporate goals and is instead, used to further the People's goals. An example of the People's goals is establishing functional wells and groundwater access in areas that have PFAS poisoning. An example of political party goals is requiring residents to use technology they can't afford to further an agenda the People aren't capable of meeting without it detrimentally affecting them.

Top executive also means mitigating issues between state and federal agencies, assisting the People with protecting their economic prosperity, personal rights and sovereignty. This also means, that even though the Executive may not be religious, the executive will still PROTECT religion for those who are, as religious exercise is a Constitutional guarantee. The top executive also carries out the Constitutional and statutory obligations detailed in laws like the Revised Codes of Washington. The top executive should have a top remembering that Article I Section I of the Washington State Constitution says, "All Political Power is inherent in the People". This does not say, all political power is inherent in political parties, nor corporations, nor oligarchies, nor any other entities. ALL Political power is inherent in ONLY the People.

I expect the top executive to set the bar for behavior in the workplace. Right now, the current work environment within the state agencies is a nightmare. I personally followed how the AG harassed, humiliated and discriminated against religious Ukrainians and Americans when the AG usurped legislative function in 2020. He created a form that he unduly influenced subordinate state employees to fill out for a "religious exemption", a form of which violated HIPAA by requiring them to disclose personal identifiable health information under duress. I'm probably the only person who has actually READ HIPAA.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

Ultimately the Governor should feel responsible for the outcomes of state Government and should use executive authority to fulfill the state's duty to its people as articulated in the state constitution to the best of his or her ability. Governors always operate under constraints but ultimately must see their duty as protecting the life, safety, and wellbeing of all the people of their state.

Governors have many responsibilities, which vary from state to state. Which of those do you personally consider the most important in your state?

Semi Bird (R)

All political power is inherent in the people, and governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed, and are established to protect and maintain individual rights.

It is imperative for the governor to uphold the constitution and protect and maintain the individual rights of Washington citizens. The governor is a servant leader elected to represent ALL citizens.

Edward Cale (D)

All people, and equality and prosperity for all.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

Appointments may be the most impactful because the people in those positions work on the issues of vital interest to the residents of the state. Appointing qualified and dedicated candidates is how a governor amplifies his influence and makes government more functional or less. Choosing people who are open minded, fair, and believe in public service are how the key influencers in government can be public servants rather than public tyrants.

William Combs (Independent)

Ensuring that the residents of Washington State have access to comprehensive and affordable health care.

Providing foster parents and potential foster parents the training necessary when dealing with children who have developed behavioral disorders as a result of abuse from biological parents.

Providing the residents of Washington State access to cheap, renewable and above all else, affordable power.

Working with local city officials in determining what their cities will look like in 100 years to maximize energy efficiency and optimizing public transportation to ensure easy travel and reasonable travel times that encourage people to leave cars at home.

Michael DePaula (L)

The governor's veto power.

Fred Grant (D)

I believe that the most important part of being a director, project manager, or any position of power is to ensure that you’re working with the best team possible. I have a proven track record of identifying and appointing experts who are passionate about their work and committed to achieving the organization’s goals. I am confident that I can appoint individuals whose minds and hearts are in the right place to lead departments, institutions, and agencies towards success.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

For all Washingtonians to become a financial priority, especially in the area of affordable housing, food, groceries and education. The middle class, like myself, are all getting hit the hardest! That is why I believe that social security should never be taxed, but always be kept safe to properly grow for the comfort of the senior over the years.

Leon Lawson (Trump Republican)

agency oversight

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

I believe it is important to lay out the parameters of legislation: To determine what the executive will support and oppose. A governor must address issues that must be as well as exercising or threatening veto. I believe it is also his responsibility to serve as the state's chief executive officer and to oversee the functions of the executive branch of government.

Mark Mullet (D)

As I mentioned twice before, it will be successfully managing our state agencies to deliver results for Washington residents. We need a government that small business owners view as supportive and collaborative, not adversarial. We need a government that helps people solve their problems in a reasonable amount of time and does not leave them sitting on hold on the phone for hours upon end.

Dave Reichert (R)

Every responsibility is important.

Don Rivers (D)

.I consider the safety of the citizens of Washington State to be their right to live and work in an equal and fair multicultural competent society as my main concern. The protection of the environment and the ability to have taxation with representation a priority. To believe in the unity of the elected officials that have been appointed by the citizens to develop unity among themselves and their constituents to have a safe living and working environment in which the citizens and their children can prosper.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

Stabilizing the Peoples economy after it was intentionally sabotaged by political parties in 2020. Considering the proliferation of corruption has contributed to the decline of my economic status personally, I imagine it has contributed to the economic decline of pretty much everyone else that is not wealthy and/or a politician. This is unacceptable, so for the next four years, the People need to secure their own government and take it away from the political parties, until the political parties get their priorities together and start representing the People. I personally consider the eradication of self-serving elected officials and corrupt public servants to be a priority for the next four years.

Our state law says, "The People of this state do not yield their sovereignty to the agencies that serve them", but they tried to take our sovereignty in 2020, which means every single individual in office at that time who didn't try to stop them from taking our sovereignty, should be fired and banned from ever running for state office again.

Another important responsibility is KNOWING what the laws say and knowing what the state and federal Constitution says so the executive knows right away when a proposed bill, mandate or any other law isn't being followed appropriately. in 2020 our executive branch usurped legislative function by creating a law that required the People to be subjugated to an investigational biological agent under duress, not to promote health, but to promote biopharmaceutical sales. The governor will NEVER have the authority to usurp legislative function during a state of emergency. But this is how we tell the difference between the People's governor and the political party's governor. The People's governor would have never used Fascist tactics like closing an open society to address the issues we faced in 2020.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

Addressing the affordability crisis in Washington by ensuring guarantees to affordable housing, healthcare, education, and transportation for all Washingtonians regardless of their ability to pay.

Different states require governors to have different degrees of responsibility for the state budgeting process. If it were your choice, what do you believe is the appropriate degree of gubernatorial involvement with this process in your state?

Semi Bird (R)

The Legislature reviews the Governor's proposed budget, develops and debates a proposed budget, and passes it. The Governor reviews the passed budget and signs it into law, vetoes it, or partially vetoes it. I support the state process as written.

Brian Bogen (No party preference)

The governor should play a crucial role in the state budgeting process, bringing lawmakers together to craft a budget that aligns with shared values and prioritizes the environment, public safety, education, housing, and programs for the vulnerable. With extensive business experience managing millions in spending, I understand the importance of tackling pressing issues and measuring the results of expenditures. I am concerned about the massive increase in spending and the risks posed by using one-time funds for ongoing expenses. I advocate for a budget that includes provisions for government accountability and measures success based on tangible outcomes, such as higher graduation rates and reduced homelessness, ensuring taxpayer dollars are effectively utilized.

Edward Cale (D)

I believe in reform, saving, investing, and future planing and future investing. Lower taxes and actual sustainable solutions.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

The governor should highlight priorities and help set goals but much of the compromise happens in legislative chambers that actually balances the numbers and sorts out the details. The governor is the public face of our state government and needs to lead without getting bogged down in the details and potentially interfering too much in the legislative process.

Michael DePaula (L)

Per the law, the Governor recommends a budget to the Legislature consistent with executive policy priorities. Appropriation bills, like other legislation, are subject to gubernatorial veto authority and may be rejected in part or in their entirety within a defined number of days after legislative passage. After a budget is enacted, the Governor’s general administrative duties include monitoring agency expenditures and helping to implement legislative policy directives.

Fred Grant (D)

As a candidate for governor, I believe that the governor should have a significant role in the budgeting process, but it is important to work collaboratively with the legislature to ensure that the budget reflects the needs and priorities of the state and its citizens. I would strive to work with the legislature to create a budget that is fiscally responsible, equitable, and invests in the future of our state.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

Well, I think that all pertains to who you know, and I know some remarkable Treasures and Accountants that are also better Cooks than I am, so of course, I keep them all close by because my cooking is not so great.

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

According to the State Constitution, it is required that the Governor develops and submits an annual or biennial budget for review and approval by the legislature. This provides a balanced budget. If the projected expenditures for the budget year exceed estimated revenues, the Governor must recommend the sources for the additional funding. budgets. I do believe their could be some collaboration if warranted.

Mark Mullet (D)

I will be extremely active in the state budgeting process. My background is finance, and I currently chair our state construction budget. The budget bill is the single most important bill that passes every year. I will lay out a framework for the budget that gets us out of our current silo budgeting mentality. When we have state operating budget growth, we will share that growth with the transportation budget so we can avoid traffic misery for Washington residents. We will do a better job of sharing state cannabis tax revenue with cities and counties that want to focus on public safety improvements. We will provide state financial support to any city or county that creates a permit system that is both predictable and quick. All of these goals can be accomplished through the budget framework.

Don Rivers (D)

.Executing Laws as your Governor I am responsible for enforcing and executing state laws. I will ensure that the laws are implemented effectively and efficiently to serve the best interests of the citizens.

Budget Development as your Governor plays a crucial role in developing the state's budget. I will propose a budget plan to the state legislature that outlines the government's spending priorities, revenue sources, and allocation of funds. Crisis Management in times of emergencies or crises, as Governor taking charge of managing the situation. This includes coordinating with various state agencies, directing disaster response efforts, and ensuring public safety. Appointing Officials I will be that Governor who appoints individuals to various state agencies, boards, and commissions. These appointments impact important policies, regulations, and decision-making processes within the state. Legislative Engagement should be key to any Governor working closely with the state legislature. Advocating for their policy priorities, proposing legislation, negotiating and signing bills into law. Effective collaboration with lawmakers is essential for policy implementation.

Economic Development and supporting economic growth within the state is another key responsibility. That I will strive too so we can be that State to attract businesses, create job opportunities, and enhance the economic well-being of Washington State residents.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

I want the executive team to personally review, gut and approve or deny all budgets based on what is best for the People of this state. When political parties review and approve budgets, they approve what is best for the political party. The People are poor now, so reviewing, cutting and approving budgets is necessary to gut programs that are no longer beneficial, or are avenues of siphoning taxpayer money to groups of people. These politicians already aren't sticking to their budgets, and it's incredibly disturbing when government agencies require more money but doesn't show more results.

The fact that we have elected officials budgeting millions of billions of dollars, but don't know the value of a dollar and have never lived paycheck to paycheck, is one of the most asinine things I've ever seen the People support. Most of the People in this state are so well versed at budgeting $20 dollars for 5 days, that we could systematically dismantle the pseudo budgets offered by political parties and rebuild actual budgets that reflect real evidentiary fiscal needs by the state employees, in less time than it takes a politician to make up non-answer answers.

But that would cut quite a bit of funnels that are currently siphoning funds from these elaborate, chaotic and embellished budgets. Budgets that contract elected officials' friends and family as recipients of taxpayer funds. Budgets that give complicated descriptions to questionable fiscal requests. My involvement would be "if you want money, you better prove it benefits the People", which would ruffle the feathers that don't plan on benefitting the People, but still plan on reaping that monetary award.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

The Governor and legislature should set the budget together ideally by the Governor setting the state's budget and the legislature specifying how to structure taxes such that that budget may be raised and maintained.

In most states, governors have the power to make line-item vetoes. If that is true in your state, what would be your philosophy for how and when to use this power?

Semi Bird (R)

If any bill presented to the governor contain several sections or appropriation items, he may object to one or more sections or appropriation items while approving other portions of the bill: Provided, that he may not object to less than an entire section, except that if the section contains one or more appropriation items, he may object to any such appropriation item or items. I support the 1974 change to the Washington Constitution.

Edward Cale (D)

I would use this power only when the elected officials are unwilling to complete/pass the Freedom Project Bill that my administration and the people will write and present.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

The Washington State governor does not have a line-item veto and that is likely a good thing. The issue is that if highly negotiated compromises could be changed by line-item vetoing any very specific portions of a bill, the final bill may become significantly different that the original legislative intent. This makes compromise and agreement more difficult when bills can be completely and arbitrarily changed after agreement.

William Combs (Independent)

When eliminating pork barrel spending from the budget and to ensure that all tax monies appropriated are distributed for public works projects for the benefit of everyone. i.e. Roads, bridges, dedicated lanes for bicycles and other personal transportation devices. To ensure that social programs are funded which deal with relevant problems such as drug addiction and mental illness.

Michael DePaula (L)

With every bill that comes to my desk, I will ask two questions: 1) Does this violate or muddy the express powers delegated to the legislature by the state constitution? And if "no", 2) Does this restore power to the citizens to make decisions for themselves as makes sense in their lives and for their situations or does it empower the state to choose on their behalf?

Fred Grant (D)

I plan to only use the line-item veto in cases of obvious inefficiency. It will be used circumstantially on a case by case basis.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

This is a difficult question to answer because (there are some people who think differently than I do) but the majority of us believe that Washingtonians who have been here paying their taxes and working hard the majority of their lives should get the biggest breaks when it comes to housing and the cost of living. No offense on outsiders, I just think once we take care of our own homeless population and those who are in need inside our state, then we can then better address the needs of others outside of our state.

Chaytan Inman (D)

I would use line item vetoes to put into action the policies I campaigned upon. If there is an issue on which I have expressed my public views and the people endorsed, then using a line item veto to enact that is the will of the people.

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

According to Article III, § 12 of the Washington Constitution which reads, in material part, as follows: VETO POWER - Every act which shall have passed the legislature shall be, before it becomes a law, presented to the governor. If he approves, he shall sign it; but if not, he shall return it, with his objections, to that house in which it shall have originated, which house shall enter the objections at large upon the journal and proceed to reconsider. If, after such reconsideration, two-thirds of the members present shall agree to pass the bill it shall be sent, together with the objections, to the other house, by which it shall likewise be reconsidered, and if approved by two-thirds of the members present, it shall become a law; but in all cases the vote of both houses shall be determined by the yeas and nays, and the names of the members voting for or against the bill shall be entered upon the journal of each house respectively. If any bill shall not be returned by the governor within five days, Sundays excepted, after it shall be presented to him, it shall become a law without his signature, unless the general adjournment shall prevent its return, in which case it shall become a law unless the governor, within ten days next after the adjournment, Sundays excepted, shall file such bill with his objections thereto, in the office of secretary of state, who shall lay the same before the legislature at its next session in like manner as if it had been returned by the governor. If any bill presented to the governor contain several sections or items, he may object to one or more sections or items while approving other portions of the bill. In such case he shall append to the bill, at the time of signing it, a statement of the section, or sections; item or items to which he objects and the reasons therefore, and the section or sections, item or items so objected to, shall not take effect unless passed over the governor's objection, as hereinbefore provided.

Mark Mullet (D)

You never want any surprises. As Governor, it is your responsibility to let Senators and House members know if there is a section of their bill that is causing you anxiety. Hopefully you find agreement in advance so you never have to do line-item vetoes. If you make your concerns known in advance and legislators choose to ignore them, then I would be comfortable with line-item vetoes to prevent bad ideas from becoming law.

Dave Reichert (R)

Use it when it is necessary to bring people back to the table on legislation that is harmful to Washington families.

Don Rivers (D)

Fiscal Responsibility is lacking in many areas of government. Some individuals may support line-item vetoes as a tool for fiscal discipline. We have to prioritize controlling government spending while eliminating wasteful or unnecessary expenditures. Some representatives advocate fiscal responsibility may argue that line-item vetoes allow executives to remove specific appropriations that they deem excessive or unrelated to the bill's overall intent. Separation of powers we are watching dissolve on many levels of our government. The philosophy of separation of powers advocates for a balance of authority between different branches of government. Those who subscribe to this philosophy may argue that line-item vetoes enhance the executive's checking power on the legislative branch. By allowing executives to remove specific provisions, this power can prevent legislative overreach and ensure accountability especially in cases where the bill includes unrelated or pork-barrel appropriations.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

I review all proposed law at least once a week, line by line, already. I actually read the bills, and no one pays me for it. I do this so I can see which direction the political parties are trying to take us in. I also post about which bills I would straight out veto, and which bills I would line-item veto. I will veto ALL bills and ALL line items that negatively affect the People of this state, regardless of whether it benefits or hurts a political party, or a corporation. I will veto each and every bill or line item that hurts a group of people or attempts to otherwise strip a group of people of their rights. I will veto each and every bill that infringes on the Rights of the People. I will veto each and every bill that attempts to evade giving the People access to their Rights. I will veto every single bill and definitely every single line item that attempts to overpower, discriminate or otherwise prevent the People from prospering or securing their prosperity economically. I will wholly and completely veto anything that even remotely attempts to prioritize corporations or political parties over the People. These political parties and these corporations have been profiting off of us for long enough and I will veto them and the political party agendas into submission.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

A line item veto should be used primarily to remove special interest kickbacks and poison pills from otherwise good legislation. While this would hopefully not be necessary often, it really comes down to the quality of the legislature and the legislation they push to the Governor's desk.

If the governor's office in your state does not have the line-item veto power, do you believe it should? Why or why not?

Michael DePaula (L)

N/A

Fred Grant (D)

I believe this is important to have. Sometimes, and I've witnessed this myself, groups can run with an idea (crowd mentality) and not see its flaws and it takes a fresh perspective to point it out. It's completely debatable though, because the power can be abused.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

Semi Bird (R)

I fully support dual federalism as our structure of separation of powers. That said, it is important to have a relationship of trust. Trust that all elected officials are operating in the best interest of their constituents.

As governor, I will make it clear that transparency of legislature is key to a healthy government.

I support healthy conflict with an understanding that we can learn from each other and just because we may not agree on an issue, doesn’t mean we cannot respect one another.

Edward Cale (D)

They are neighbors and collaborators for the people.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

The governor interfaces with the federal government and international trading partners, is the public face of state government, and helps educate the public and legislature on what the biggest priorities are and why. The state legislature adjusts the laws to accommodate those priorities and controls the funding mechanisms to keep the state operating. The ensure the legislature enacts and funds the governor's priorities, the governor and the legislature need to be in frequent communication about what the governor is willing to sign into law and how the legislature may or may not be able to fund it.

William Combs (Independent)

One where this always open communication.

Michael DePaula (L)

A consequence of single-party governments across legislative and executive branches is often law based on popular desires at the expense of at least half of the state whose party is not in power. This creates a pendulum effect whose ultimate victims are the people themselves forever entrenched in "voting harder" the next election. Contrasted with this is the Libertarian philosophy of minimal government where the legislative and executive branches core responsibilities are to maintain the civil and property rights of the people and pass legislation that does not touch on either or, at the very least, strengthens them. Insofar as a Libertarian governor works with a legislature of a different party, s/he must act as a defense of the people and their rights even if that means a stalemate, since abrogation of the stalemate would mean a loss to the people. In time, the hope is that the legislature would learn to restrain their attempts at impoverishing their constituents lest they retire office with no achievements to boast over.

Fred Grant (D)

My ideal relationship would be to have the governor and legislature work together in a way that is responsible, transparent, and accountable to the people they serve. However, it is important to have some kind of checks and balances in place to prevent abuse of power.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

The ideal relationship between governor and state legislature is one that doesn't base itself on biased towards an affiliation that is "different" from their own, but looks at the heart, and treats one another the way they would want to be treated (without corruption). We should all aim for a unified relationship that actually looks out for the end result of less enablement, more protection, and overall greater financial success on behalf of all those who are in need. And remember that all human lives are important.

Leon Lawson (Trump Republican)

Check on overreach and abuse

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

In order to have any relationship, you first must have a sincere heart for “We the People,” of which you are elected to govern. Once elected to office, the governor inherits a massive responsibility overnight. It is understood that you now stand as a representative and voice for the entire State of Washington as their political party, assents to praise, blame or nuisance for engaging in the decision-making process in times of crisis. Governor- elect also oversees the implementation of public policy, in assistance with guiding legislation through the lawmaking process. These infrastructure of strength and skill demands that governors possess personality traits that allows for them to shift hats when needed. Similarly, as a mother does with her children. Governors must obtain a positive working relationship with lawmakers, bureaucrats, cabinet officials, and with the citizens who elected them to office in the first place. The ongoing water crisis in Flint, Michigan, provides a good case in point. The COVID-19 pandemic put every governor in the hot seat as they considered decisions on masks, social distancing, and how to allocate federal funds.

Mark Mullet (D)

The Governor is there to support the legislature and help them get their work done. This means convening people of different opinions into a room to find common ground. This means making sure all the voices in every policy discussion are being heard. I will go out of my way to help make all 147 members of the legislature be successful in their roles. I view it as a row boat where we all have a job to do, and the only way we can be successful is if we are all rowing in the same direction. It is the Governor's job to make sure that happens.

Dave Reichert (R)

A true balance of power and the ability to work together.

Don Rivers (D)

.I will be bringing the concept of the 3L's with me to Olympia Listen, Learn and then Lead. taking the concept of understanding that cultural competency is a must so that all the people of Washington State will be included. Protecting the public is very important today and is on the ballot. It requires a commitment to upholding democratic principles, promoting the rule of law, and safeguarding the rights and freedoms of all citizens. It also involves fostering a culture of civic engagement and participation, as well as holding those in power accountable for their actions. We have to gain the trust of the people and promoting transparency, inclusivity, and respect for diverse perspectives is crucial in protecting the republic and regaining the trust of the people.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

The ideal relationship would be to completely annihilate all political parties in our state government. The political parties require hard stances that aren't even logical, nor do they make sense, but they do cause chaos and strife, where there would normally be none. The ideal relationship would be where the legislature ACTUALLY listens to their own arguments because the political party hasn't predetermined their vote for or against a thing. The ideal relationship would be the executive minding the executive function, and not usurping legislative power to mandate pharmaceuticals. The ideal relationship would have been the legislature demonstrating to support the PEOPLE, until the governor stood down and stopped usurping legislative function. The ideal relationship would be that neither is over the other, but they CHECK each other when they become out of pocket. The governor checks the legislature by vetoing bills, the legislature checks the governor when unlawful mandates are imposed. Both branches are supposed to protect the interest of THE PEOPLE, not the interest of the political party, not the interest of the corporations and not the interest of biopharmaceutical giants. The governor is no one's boss. The governor is simply an administrative tool, especially in troubling times. The ideal relationship is where the legislative and executive balance each other, as opposed to waring with each other because political party interests separate their obligations to the People, and the People are too divorced from state government to check them back into their lane. In the 99% context, the governor is the butler, he is not the mother nor father. The executive assists us, he does not act in ways adverse to the People. The executive helps us figure out business out, the executive does not decide our business for us. We have a tendency to subcontract our political power to politicians, so we don't have to think, and that has created many monsters.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

The Governor and state legislature will both be most successful with a collaborative relationship built around clearly stated shared goals which advance the public interest. In an ideal relationship both branches are operating within the law, the public interest, and the best information available. In a less ideal circumstance they may be required to check one another's power.

What do you love most about your state?

Semi Bird (R)

Our beautiful geography and diverse culture.

Edward Cale (D)

I love the trees and nature the most, and the sense of community and of those willing to participate and give to meet the needs of all. Especially, the need for transparency and real equality across all government and government funded institutions. And I love to see the generosity and care of the poor by others in our community who have been blessed and are doing a tremendously great job with what they have been entrusted with.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

The natural beauty and four seasons are amazing. I have hiked, biked, skied, kayaked, traveled and explored all over the state and have only scratched the surface of all the places I want to visit.

William Combs (Independent)

The multitude of climates and geographical varieties. The vast natural resources.

Michael DePaula (L)

I grew up in both Caliornia and Maine and recall vividly the first time I visited Washington. It reminded me much of Maine but everything was just bigger and at a grander scale. The ocean, mountains, hills, and lakes...growing up hiking and camping made me appreciate all Washington has to offer. These days Portland, Maine might be most analogous to Spokane or Seattle, but Washington on the whole really shines when it comes to favorable tax laws and the sheer variety of industries and diversity of people here. I really hope we can improve upon these and not lose ground over the coming decade with all the challenges we face.

Fred Grant (D)

The thing I love most about my state is the rain! There is nothing better than taking a walk in the rain in a green, mossy forest.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

The people! I really love the diversity of the people here and I love embracing people that are different than I am, or different than my political affiliation, as I have previously leaned to the right.

Chaytan Inman (D)

There is a resilience in Washington. We live and breathe the drizzling rain for more than half the year. But we run, we bike, we walk, we dance under them anyway. In the east, we can only hope for such rain, but we treasure the water of the vast Columbia, the beautiful rivers that spring from the Cascades, and the valleys and the fields. But none of it is given. Everything must be earned, and so it is a gracious resilience that emerges. We endure six months of darkness for the long leisurely cool late May evenings. We deeply appreciate the cold clear water of the Columbia in the dry Eastern Washington deserts. It is a resilience rooted in diversity and deprivation that gives a deep gratitude for all that we have, for every raindrop, every ocean wave, every mountain stream.

Leon Lawson (Trump Republican)

It Is the only state like it none compare

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

“I love the trees of green, red roses too, I see them bloom for me and you…And I think to myself, what a wonderful world. I see skies of blue and clouds of white, a bright blessed day, the dark sacred night, and I think to myself what a wonderful world.” — Louie Armstrong

I love the sunrise in the eastern parts, I love the togetherness of the people making a brand-new start. I love embracing the vision of unity as we restore what has been divided among us. I love working together side by side with the people, to restore justice and equality. Having the vision of setting a precedence in which to strengthen, bring hope, and real answers to our state by repairing the breach. I love the diversity of the people, as we truly represent what our nation should resemble.

May The Lord forever shine favor on this great State of Washington.

Mark Mullet (D)

The natural beauty. I was born and raised in Tukwila, but did live away from Washington for twelve years while I was working in international finance. I was eager to move back to our state because I consider it the most beautiful place on earth. I loved growing up here, and my wife and I are thrilled that our own six kids have also had the chance to grow up in the Pacific Northwest.

Dave Reichert (R)

The beauty and people.

Don Rivers (D)

Washington State’s enchanting natural beauty is just one of the many gifts it gives to us. If I had to say one thing, I would say the people. Very diverse and accepting. It can be a place where kindness and empathy are the guiding principles, and understanding and acceptance are woven into the very fabric of society. Whether it's a neighborhood, a cultural center, a workplace, or a virtual community, Washington State is a place that emulates a spirit of openness and mutual respect where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute their unique perspectives, talents, and experiences without fear of judgment or discrimination. We have a long way to go still I will fight to see this true change. As Governor it will be my true policy to encourage people to learn from one another. To grow and evolve in a nurturing and supportive environment. It's a place where the richness of human diversity is celebrated, and where the bonds of community are built on a foundation of love, compassion, and understanding.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

I love how the orographic lifting from the Cascade Mountain range because it creates a desert type atmosphere in the middle and Eastern part of the state. We are literal geographical anomalies up here in the Pacific Northwest. I also enjoy saying, seeing and reading about the Native American names and history here. We travel around the entire state during camping season, experiencing different state parks and RV sites in different cities and our most favorite is Steamboat Rock State Park near Grand Coulee and Electric City Washington so far. I love how the East is not as crowded as the west, and the middle of the state is even less crowded. I love how I can go to a different part of the state if I want a different geographical experience. We have access to everything from Oceanic atmospheres to smoggy large cities, to authentic desert atmospheres, wooded forests and rolling fields with no mountains for a hundred miles and wooded forests and rolling hills with mountains all around. If I want hot during the day and chilly cold at night I will go to the north. If I want warm days and warm nights, I will go to the south. In one day, I can see dense wooded terrain and a few hours later I'm looking at miles and miles of Appletree's and then a while later I'm looking at miles and miles of wheat. I was born and raised on the west side of the state and during the summers my parents took me to the east side of the state to vacation. In my 20's we all moved to the east side of the state and went back to the west side to visit family. This is how I became so familiar with the many different routes to get from one side to the other. I became familiar with the geography and I fell in love with my state.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

I love Washington's ingenuity, independence, and the compassion of our people. We are a great state, a beautiful state, and a state which leads best through its example. I am proud of how many critical issues Washington has been an early leader on including cannabis legalization and marriage equality. I truly believe that we can build the world we wish to live in today in Washington.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Semi Bird (R)

With proper leadership we can turn our state around beginning in January 2025 Currently we must tackle: Homelessness, Mental Health & Addiction, Public Safety, Education, Economy, and restore citizen rights.

Edward Cale (D)

Actually making the system fair and prosperous for all, for the first time in Washington's history.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

The biggest challenge will be our electrical grid resiliency and supporting all the current and future electrical needs of our homes, transportation, and industrial sectors. Our information economy and cashless payments are useless without electricity. Artificial Intelligence (AI) in our data centers require significant more power and additional ground water for cooling. We need to be focused on developing additional generation capacity (solar, wind, nuclear, fusion, and others) with significantly enhanced battery technologies to store the excess power generated for a later time.

Helping homeowner's pair solar with battery backup allows fridges, freezers, and computer equipment to work even when the grid is down for days or weeks. Building industrial scale batteries can help smooth variations in wind and solar. The latest nuclear reactor designs can help fill in the power generation needs when instantaneous power is needed or during nighttime, snowy, or windless days. A mix of power generation capabilities is critical to supplying enough power when needed.

The book, The Grid, was published in 2016 and is as relevant now as back then for helping to highlight what the choices, trends, and impacts are as we prepare our electrical grid for the demands of the future that are here now.

William Combs (Independent)

Energy and infrastructure. Rebuilding our cities from the inside out.

Michael DePaula (L)

Washington has seen a large number of interstate migration, notably from those leaving California heading north, but at the same time, we are seeing too many of our friends and family leave due to the increasingly unbearable cost of living and criminal justice decisions that have taken root up and down the West Coast. Couple that with loss of rights when it comes to personal defense and protection of property and I anticipate we'll see more businesses forced to close, taking with them so many of the jobs that made Washington attractive for so many in the first place. Once this cycle continues, infrastructure collapse and the state's budget will turn into very real and tangible problems very quickly.

Fred Grant (D)

I think there are some very real issues that are not too far off that could potentially cause some issues. The entire world is still recovering both emotionally and financially from the pandemic. A lot of money was printed to keep the economy afloat and now we are suffering from inflation. There is a lot of civil unrest and mental illness is worse than ever. The housing market has some questionable practices that has now become a major issue for middle and lower income families. Finally, a fairly new innovation that has stayed under the radar is the use of Artificial Intelligence. Although it is an amazing tool and will dramatically increase our productivity, it will completely reshape society as we know it. All of these global issues ripple down to the state, community, and individual levels.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

Overcoming our debt problem, but I truly believe there are phenomenal ways we can come together in each community to see a better outcome on behalf of everyone involved, working better together.

Leon Lawson (Trump Republican)

Draining the political uniparty swamp

Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters)

1\. More Fools in the Government - the unfit, the incompetents, the unskilled, undereducated, inexperienced, more greedy, corrupted and avaricious individuals, etc. 2\. Trying to undo the damage caused by the above individuals to the population that have been brainwashed for decades into total stupidity.

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

Scientific studies have indicated that global warming could be a potential threat in Washington state. In the coming decades, coastal waters will become more acidic, streams will be warmer, populations of several fish species will decline, and wildfires may be more common.

We have a decent economy, and a lot of people want to move to Washington, with that comes an increase in crime, homelessness, and housing prices to go insanely high so we must work hard to deal with these problems since they won't go away on their own. Environmental issues we face today Environmental issues and human progress are intimately connected. The incredible progress from the Industrial Revolution gave humanity the best health, wealth, and security in world history. It’s also caused irreparable damage to our natural environment. Each environmental issue is connected. These are some of the biggest environmental issues, we face today: Air pollution: There are two types of air pollution. Outdoor air pollution and indoor air pollution. Animal welfare: is an environmental issue for several reasons. PETA: stands for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. It is the largest animal rights Biodiversity loss: is the extinction and reduction of plant and animal species and ecological diversity. Coral bleaching: is an environmental issue today. Energy: The environmental problem with energy today is that 80% of the energy we use in the United States comes from fossil fuels, according to the US Energy Administration As a being a part of United Nations, Education, Science, and Cultural Organization ( UNESCO), we believe that every single person on earth has a right to modern energy and electricity.

Although I have assisted in over one billion dollars in assets for energy in Africa we still need massive investments in clean and renewable energy innovation that will help the US transition to a clean economy and also help raise living standards for people around the world.

Mark Mullet (D)

Affordability and public safety. We have to make our state more affordable or average families will no longer enjoy living here. We have to do a better job of supporting the law enforcement community or people will not feel safe in their local neighborhoods. These are the issues I have prioritized in the State Senate, which is why I'm endorsed by both WACOPS and LAW (Police Chiefs and Sheriffs). I'm also endorsed by a wide range of groups because of my focus on affordability, from our Public School Employees to farm groups like the Washington Tree Fruit Association.

Dave Reichert (R)

We must rebuild trust in our government by prioritizing open and transparent servant leadership. People are tired of witnessing government funds being squandered while seemingly every effort is made by Olympia to make the cost of living unmanageable for the majority of Washingtonians.

Don Rivers (D)

Combating hate and corruption within the government requires a comprehensive and multifaceted plan. It will combine legal reforms, transparency measures, ethical leadership, education, and civic engagement with implementing the active participation of all stakeholders. I will establish a foundation for a hate-free and transparent government which prioritizes the welfare and rights of its citizens.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

PFAS in our drinking water, silver iodide and sulfuric acid being sprayed in the atmosphere and fighting the political parties and corporations who lie about it and benefit from it. Eradicating corrupt political parties from government and shifting the direction of legislature to focus on the People's needs to create economic prosperity and security. Once we get political parties out of our government, we won't be forced to deal with such insane, illogical and unrealistic propagandized and highly exploited issues that only keep us chaotic and unfocused on what goals to actually buckle down on. Once we eradicate political parties in our state, we won't need 538 "programs" for drug addicts that give them free hotel rooms to use drugs. We can have a few programs that address addiction that are very successful and powerful created by people who do not have political agenda's they are required to meet to keep their party affiliations. It's not in a politician's best interest to solve a problem because then they wouldn't be able to ask us for money for that problem. If homelessness remains perpetual, there will always be taxpayer money available for programs for homelessness. Paying for "experts" to give their opinions on what programs to create, is sometimes the most expensive part of the programs. These "experts" are often friends, family or acquaintances of the politicians, which is why the person who releases violent sex offenders using lie detector tests, has his wife keeping 13 violent sex offenders in a house in Enumclaw, which nets her approximately $400K a month in taxpayer money. One of the greatest challenges is eradicating the predators from the system. One of the greatest challenges is fighting political corruption as hard as we fight our family members that owe us $20 dollars from seven years ago.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

Washington will need to find a way to overcome the shortcomings of our federal government. From healthcare, to pandemic response, to economic policy, to environmental stewardship - we simply cannot wait and expect that the feds are going to deliver solutions to these problems. We need to be the architects of solutions to these issues and we need to be prepared for the next crisis. I believe in many ways this will look like Washington taking steps to become more like an independent nation, though I believe we can do this while remaining a member of the United States, but it will challenge us to continue forward while much of the nation goes back.

Tell us your favorite joke.

Semi Bird (R)

None

Edward Cale (D)

I love comedy. I don't have a favorite joke, I like jokes with meaning and irony, and help encourage others in good taste to get inspired about making a difference in the world and with one's self and others.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

A man dies and goes to the pearly gates. St. Peter offers him a choice: heaven or hell. The man peeks into heaven and sees people quietly reading books. It seems a bit dull. Then he looks into hell and sees a wild party with dancing, music, and laughter. He sleeps on it for a night and then comes back the next day excited and he chooses hell. But when the doors open, it’s all fire and brimstone. The devil grins and says, ‘Yesterday you were a recruit, now you’re an employee.'

Michael DePaula (L)

"RIP, boiling water. You will be mist."

Fred Grant (D)

I don't have a favorite joke, but any one-liner from "Wayne's World" will make me laugh.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

It's the Ronald Reagan jole about the farmer that had a three-legged chicken because he heard the meat was really tasty. And when asked what the three-legged chicken taste like? The farmer answered, "I don't know, I've never been able to catch one!"

EL'ona Kearney (D)

Why is 6 afraid of 7? Answer: Because 7, 8, 9. Get it 7 ate 9 :)

Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters)

Once they get in the office, they think they are kings.

Olympia, White House - they twist us like springs. They lie to us all, then we get them elected. Conditions then worsen and we get neglected. They first legalized the prohibited drugs. They then liberated some thieves and some thugs. They bicycle lanes installed everywhere. Then homeless crowd comes from nowhere. They’re ready to blame for this a scapegoat. They’ll go for cops, Russia, Trump or your throat. They have no conscience, they like shady dealing. They’ll charge you for homeless.

They are from you stealing.

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

N/A

Mark Mullet (D)

It is not a joke, but I love in the Big Lebowski how they constantly refer to the rug that tied the room together.

Don Rivers (D)

My favorite political joke is:

Why are political speeches similar to a steer's horns?

A point here, a point there, and a lot of bull in between.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

My favorite joke is the one Quentin Terentino told in the movie Desperado. If you know, you know... if you don't, that's too bad.

Under what circumstances should the governor of your state be able to use emergency powers?

Semi Bird (R)

RCW 43.06.10 I support our current laws and stand against an overreach as seen during the COVID response. Legislature should not have signed away citizen power to the Governor.

Edward Cale (D)

Acts of God, and poverty, and to correct the inherent threat to people's lives by the oppressive script.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

The governor can “prohibit” otherwise legal conduct to address an emergency such as those caused by natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis. This is a vitally important power to have to address the unique circumstances that develop when disasters strike.

The governor can also "waive" existing laws and regulations when necessary, such as the in-person eyesight exam requirement for driver’s licenses during the COVID lockdown. The Legislature’s role is limited: it can review and extend “waivers,” but the governor alone determines when a state of emergency ends.

Both powers are necessary but need to be used sparingly and with consultation of those who are being affected.

William Combs (Independent)

Only when the well being of the residents of the State of Washington are under direct threat to the livelihoods of it's citizens.

Michael DePaula (L)

Three clear scenarios stand out: 1) to restore constitutional rights that were abridged by the legislature, 2) to facilitate rescue of any citizen in times of state crisis (earthquake, flood, or fire), and 3) to counteract a overreach of the federal government or one of her agencies.

Fred Grant (D)

I believe emergency powers should be used if there is an overwhelming potential or active loss of life, property, or overall harm to the population in the state. They should also be given up as soon as the crisis has ended.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

When people's lives are truly at stake, and when their constitutional rights are being attacked or threatened.

Leon Lawson (Trump Republican)

+++

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

A state of emergency is a situation in which a government is empowered to put through policies that it would normally not be permitted to do, for the safety and protection of its citizens. A government can declare such a state during a natural disaster, civil unrest, armed conflict, medical pandemic or epidemic or other biosecurity risk.

Martial law: is mandated, when civil rights are severely restricted by the imposition of military force within a Sovereign state, for example during a period of extreme threat of invasion or actual hostilities by foreign forces. State of siege: when the civil rights of specified persons or groups such as political activists are likely to be curtailed, for example to prevent an insurrection or organized acts of treason by suspected agents provocateurs Civil emergency: dealing with disaster areas and requiring the deployment of extraordinary resources to contain dangerous situations such as natural disasters or extensive malicious property damage such as may occur during rioting or by arson. As well as regular emergency services, sometimes military forces may be assigned to deliver aid under especially dangerous conditions or to prevent looting.

There is also the provision mandated for the international law, where rights and freedoms may be suspended during a state of emergency, depending on the severity of the emergency and the government's policies.

Democracies use states of emergency to manage a range of situations from extreme weather events to public order situations. Dictatorial regimes often declare a state of emergency that is prolonged indefinitely for the life of the regime, or for extended periods of time so that derogations can be used to override human rights of their citizens usually protected by the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

Mark Mullet (D)

I will sponsor a bill during my first week in office that says emergency powers will be capped at 90 days. I was vocal during during the current administration that emergency powers were being abused. I promise a more balanced approach that makes sure the legislature is involved in these important decisions.

Dave Reichert (R)

The governor has the authority to use emergency powers under specific circumstances. I believe the governor should use these powers judiciously, proportional and for the shortest amount of time necessary.

Don Rivers (D)

Infrastructure failures in situations where critical infrastructure systems, such as transportation networks, power grids, or water supplies, are severely compromised or disrupted, the governor should have emergency powers to expedite repairs, allocate resources, and ensure the continuity of essential services. The governor of a state should be able to use emergency powers in any situations where there is a clear and imminent threat to public safety, welfare, or security. Some common circumstances that may warrant the use of emergency powers include:

Natural disasters: The governor should have the ability to declare a state of emergency and utilize emergency powers in response to events such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, or wildfires. This allows for the quick mobilization of resources, coordination of emergency response efforts, and the implementation of necessary measures to protect lives and property. Public health crises: In the case of a widespread outbreak of a contagious disease or a public health emergency, the governor should be able to exercise emergency powers to enforce quarantine measures, mandate vaccinations, allocate medical resources, and take other necessary steps to safeguard public health. Terrorism or acts of violence: If there is a credible and immediate threat of terrorism, civil unrest, or other acts of violence, the governor should have the authority to activate emergency powers. This enables them to coordinate law enforcement efforts, deploy national guard or military forces if necessary, and enact measures to protect the public and maintain order.

These emergency powers should be temporary and subject to checks and balances, such as oversight by the legislature or review by the judiciary, to prevent abuse and protect civil liberties. Additionally, there should be mechanisms in place to safeguard against corruption or misuse of emergency powers by government officials.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

The "circumstances" are outlined in state statutes like the Revised Codes of Washington, even though we WATCHED the political parties make up their own regulations during that state of emergency. The economic status of the People required a SOE in 2020. One should have been declared to assist the People in financially recovering from unlawful mandates rolled out by political parties in 2020, where thousands of People were forced to retire, quit or be terminated from their jobs to avoid participating in an investigational biological agent.

The political party shut down an entire sector of middle-class small business. The SOE that took out a sector of middle class was functional for the political party, whereas a SOE to get the People back on their economic feet after obliterating the economy was not functional, nor beneficial to the political party. During a SOE the executive is obligated to waive, suspend and prohibit laws that interfere with the SOE functionality and goals, if the goal is to rebuild the economy for the People, we would CAP things like gas taxes, gas prices, "inflation", rent, insurance, utilities and other controllable facets of economics. We should have declared a SOE for homelessness and drug overdoses. We should have declared a SOE for the individuals who were adversely affected after participating in the investigational biological agent, especially if it was under duress and fear of losing their jobs. We should have issued a SOE regarding the dumping of sulfuric acid and silver iodide in the atmosphere to prevent further contamination of the air, ground, water, humans and animals.

We should have declared a SOE for the amount of PFAS we have contaminating ground and well water. Some cities like Airway Heights have to BUY WATER from the City of Spokane because it is not in the political party's best interest to ensure the People have adequate, unpoisoned drinking water.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

If the emergency powers can reasonably be expected to protect the safety, wellbeing, and life of a significant number of Washingtonians. Emergency powers are by definition temporary and even if an emergency persists, over time the emergency must be transitioned into a daily state of affairs with an updated set of policies for managing.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Semi Bird (R)

PASTOR ROGER

SENIOR PASTOR MOTION CHURCH LUCA LATINOS UNITED FOR CONSERVATIVE ACTION CRISTIAN SANCHEZ TOPPENISH CITY COUNCIL POSITION 2 NOLAN WEIS CITY COUNCIL ROSLYN FRANK LAROSE OHIO SECRETARY OF STATE, CANDIDATE FOR U.S. SENATE FORMER U.S. ARMY SPECIAL FORCES GREEN BERET SNOHOMISH COUNTY 39TH LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT JIM HUNTSMAN THE WESTERN HUNTSMAN PODCAST JAMES BOAD SHELTON CITY COUNCIL SEAT ONE EMMA HERRON HOSPITAL BOARD COMMISSIONER SNOQUALMIE VALLEY LISA ALEXANDER KELSO CITY COUNCIL MEMBER POSITION 6 COLUMBIA COUNTY CONSERVATIVES STEVE DUENKEL AUDITOR MASON COUNTY DENNIS & LORI CUMMINS LEAD PASTORS EXPERIENCE CHURCH PUYALLUP, WA THE LAKE ROOSEVELT YACHT CLUB TRICIA DAVIS BATTLE GROUND CITY COUNCIL MEMBER TAKE BACK MASON COUNTY POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE DOUG ROULSTONE US NAVY (RET.) CAPTAIN AND COMMANDING OFFICER USS JOHN C. STENNIS AIRCRAFT CARRIER GWENDOLYN FULLERTON COUNCIL MEMBER BONNEY LAKE WILLIAM "BILL" TORSEN WASHINGTON STATE FERRIES COMMODORE, RETIRED STEVEN L. SAUNDERS COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR SPECIAL OPERATIONS DETACHMENT PACIFIC, RETIRED STAN FITZGERALD PRESIDENT OF VETERANS FOR AMERICA FIRST RYAN WHITTEN RICHLAND CITY COUNCIL POSITION 7 ROY SWIHART SENIOR PASTOR COWBOY CHURCH-BOW ROB GILLESPIE COUNCILMEMBER CITY OF OKANOGAN RICHARD "RICK" HUNT COLONEL U.S. MARINE CORPS, RET. PETE SERRANO COUNCILMAN PASCO CITY NICK WINTERS ARMY LIEUTENANT COLONEL, RET. HOMELAND SECURITY PROFESSIONAL NICK RICHARDSON ARMY VETERAN NON-PROFIT FOUNDER, VETERAN ADVOCATE NICK LAVACCA COUNCILMAN AT-LARGE SEDRO-WOOLLEY COLONEL MD MUSTAFIZUR RAHMAN FORMER COMMANDER BANGLADESH ARMY SPECIAL FORCES MJ BOLT SPOKANE COUNTY GOP VICE CHAIR FORMER SPOKANE SCHOOL BOARD DIRECTOR, MEMBER OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION MICHELLE BELKOT COUNCILWOMAN ELECT CLARK COUNTY KENNETH SPENCER, JR. TREASURER BENTON COUNTY KAT SNIDER SCHOOL DIRECTOR (DISTRICT 3) KETTLE FALLS JOELLEN KESTI MAYOR CANDIDATE COUNCIL MEMBER AND SEDRO-WOOLLEY JOE KENT FORMER SPECIAL FORCES GREEN BERET JOE KENNEDY FOOTBALL COACH BREMERTON HIGH SCHOOL JHOANNA JONES CITY COUNCIL RICHLAND JEFF MCMILLAN TONASKET CITY COUNCIL POSITION 2 GABE GALBRAIH KENNEWICK SCHOOL BOARD DIRECTOR 2 ERIN SITTERLEY CITY COUNCIL SEATAC ERIKA GEORGE PROSECUTING ATTORNEY STEVENS COUNTY ERIC EISINGER PROSECUTOR BENTON COUNTY ELPIDIA SAAVEDRA MAYOR TOPPENISH DR. JONATHAN HANSEN PRESIDENT WORLD MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL DARIUS J. SLADE BUSINESS MANAGER DSHS CITIZEN POLITICAL ACTION COALITION CPAC AUDRA BYRD RICHLAND SCHOOL BOARD DIRECTOR, VICE PRESIDENT JOHN HILDERBRAND SHERIFF ASOTIN COUNTY PAUL BUDROW SHERIFF OKANOGAN COUNTY BOB SONGER SHERIFF KLICKITAT COUNTY BRAD MANKE SHERIFF STEVENS COUNTY JIM RAYMOND SHERIFF FRANKLIN COUNTY MIKE MORRISON SHERIFF CHELAN COUNTY SUMMER SCHEYER SHERIFF SKAMANIA COUNTY ADAM FORTNEY SHERIFF SNOHOMISH COUNTY COUNTY ENDORSEMENTS SNOHOMISH COUNTY 38TH LD REPUBLICAN PARTY WASHINGTON STATE ASOTIN COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY WASHINGTON STATE CLARK COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY WASHINGTON STATE SPOKANE COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY WASHINGTON STATE COLUMBIA COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY WASHINGTON STATE ISLAND COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY WASHINGTON STATE MASON COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY WASHINGTON STATE SKAGIT COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY WASHINGTON STATE BENTON COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY WASHINGTON STATE LEWIS COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY WASHINGTON STATE COWLITZ COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY WASHINGTON STATE YAKIMA COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY WASHINGTON STATE SKAMANIA COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY

WASHINGTON STATE

Edward Cale (D)

I don't know, hopefully everyone. I don't ask people to endorse my believes entirely, just that we all work together to make the system fair and equal for once. I wouldn't know or be able to keep track of all of that, i.e. who endorses me (e.g. my campaign). I stand for creating equality and prosperity and I am committed to the people running government. I make that happen in action not words when elected.

Michael DePaula (L)

Libertarian Party of Washington (pending interviews in early 2024)

Jennifer Hoover (R)

I'm available for endorsement at this time.

EL'ona Kearney (D)

people in the community, union workers, small business owners

Leon Lawson (Trump Republican)

Dogcon Auto,

Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters)

NONSENSE BUSTERS

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

In process

Mark Mullet (D)

WACOPS, LAW, Public School Employees, Realtors, Washington Multi-family Housing, Tree Fruit Growers association, Operating Engineers, Plumbers and Pipefitters, Rental Housing Alliance, Hospitality Association, Medical Association, BIAW, Association of General Contractors, Community Bankers Association, Washington Bankers Association, Painters and Allied trades, Washington Hospital Association, Secretary of State Steve Hobbs, Seattle City Council President Sara Nelson, Senators Kevin Van De Wege, Annette Cleveland, and John Lovick. House Reps Larry Springer and Amy Walen. Mayors of Everett, Puyallup, Ellensburg, Woodinville, Mercer Island, Kent, Lacey, Issaquah, Snoqualmie, Yarrow Point, Black Diamond, Covington, Tukwila, and Renton.

Dave Reichert (R)

Michael Hawley, Island County Sheriff

John Gese, Kitsap County Sheriff Brad Manke, Stevens County Sheriff Kevin W. Morris, Douglas County Sheriff Mike Morrison, Chelan County Sheriff Robert Udell, Yakima County Sheriff Brett Myers, Whitman County Sheriff Bill Elfo, Whatcom County Sheriff (Retired) Mark Howie, Wahkiakum County Sheriff Mark Crider, Walla Walla County Sheriff John Nowels, Spokane County Sheriff Don McDermott, Skagit County Sheriff Ed Troyer, Pierce County Sheriff Glenn Blakeslee, Pend Oreille County Sheriff Paul Budrow, Okanogan County Sheriff Ryan Spurling, Mason County Sheriff Robert Snaza, Lewis County Sheriff Clay Myers, Kittitas County Sheriff Rick Felici, Island County Sheriff Darrin Wallace, Grays Harbor

and many more!

Don Rivers (D)

The beautiful thing about history is that it is a form of records. Endorsements are a form of tribalism to keep the wheels turning even if they are no longer productive. I am only looking for Washington State voters' endorsement.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

None. The People's interests are the direct opposite of corporate and political party interests, so none of those entities would endorse their own downfall.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

Green Party of Washington, Green Party of Seattle, South Sound Green Party

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Ricky Anthony (D)

I believe that financial transparency is paramount to maintaining public trust and ensuring government accountability. Equally important governments, as the custodians of public resources, must be held to the highest standards of integrity. Furthermore, this includes being open about how they manage and use these resources. Government accountability ensures that public resources are used efficiently toward stability and progress for our state.

Edward Cale (D)

The government needs to be fair and transparent with all rules and policies that are based on individuals not categories and prescribed priorities that are not equal and fair, but inherently biased.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

Freedom Of Information Act (FOIA) and public records requests are the fundamental mechanism that citizens can find out what the government is doing in their names. Corruption breeds in secrecy and the various sunshine laws that ensure access to documents is absolutely critical to eliminating the fraud, waste, and abuse that occurs at all levels of government.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

I truly believe in greater governmental transparency when it comes to our budget spending and COMPLETE EXPOSURE to where the money goes.

And even the Democrats and I are asking this BIG question, "Where is all the marijuana money is going?"

(I think that's what we ALL in Washington State would like to know;)

Alan Makayev (Nonsense Busters)

Stop the Waste

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

It is imperative for Government transparency before the citizens. Transparency enhances the checks and balances established within the constitution of the united states, as well as consistent accountability. It embraces the open-door policy for informing and engaging citizens in the matters of state Government as well as ensuring information by the Federal Government should set a national example for all.

Mark Mullet (D)

I do not exercise legislative privilege, and turn over every e-mail or document anybody ever wants to see out of my Senate office. I will do the same in the Governor's office.

Dave Reichert (R)

We deserve to know where government is working and where it’s not. To do that, we will audit all state government programs, and share information directly with the public. We must effectively fund priorities, eliminate waste, and help reduce the financial burdens on everyone.

Don Rivers (D)

Combating hate and corruption within the government requires a comprehensive and multifaceted plan. It will combine legal reforms, transparency measures, ethical leadership, education, and civic engagement with implementing the active participation of all stakeholders. I will establish a foundation for a hate-free and transparent government which prioritizes the welfare and rights of its citizens.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

There is no financial transparency and accountability. Most of us are so insanely jaded with corrupt politicians that we literally ignore them whenever we get a chance. Nevertheless, we somehow manage to always see reports of several millions and billions of dollars being unaccounted for.

The Attorney General is suing corporations he can't even prove damages on. Moses Lake just lost $20 million somehow, somewhere, but no one knows where, or whose pockets it went into. The complete lack of administrative oversight on the Covid funding alone should produce some criminal charges. But we're not seeing criminal charges, what we're seeing is, the most nefarious people are much more powerful than the people whistleblowing, so we sit in this weird state of stagnation where corrupt politicians just continue being corrupt, while the People stare them in their faces. The politician's audacity is at an all-time high these days, and that is not acceptable in a government they don't contribute much to except chaos, pathetic displays for attention and unaccounted for millions. When it comes to transparency and accountability, I'm not a politician, so it doesn't benefit me to withhold information.

It benefits me to tell the People whose pockets their money is going into. It benefits me to track the money down and find out where it is. It benefits me to understand how these political parties receive billions of dollars yet have to increase property taxes because the budgets they came up with weren't sufficient... due to "inflation", but the People navigate inflation flawlessly because we're used to budgeting $30 dollars for 6 days of using gas and eating food and going to work, only so we can have maybe, $40 dollars left until the next payday. Politicians don't know anything about financial transparency and accountability, unless they want to know about the Peoples finances and hold the People accountable.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

Public institutions and public servants should be honored to be held to the highest standards of accountability and financial transparency. Serving the public is to be expected to serve public interests and to demonstrate that through the ongoing refusal of all conflicts of interest whether actual or perceived. This is the only way there can be a foundation of trust between government and the public.

Do you support or oppose changes to the current state ballot initiative process? If so, what kind of changes would you consider?

Brian Bogen (No party preference)

I believe the initiative process should be respected as it allows voters to speak on issues they want addressed and, on the laws, passed by their representatives. In the past, the process allowed voters to pass new laws, like transparency measures/access to public records for government officials. The initiative also allows voters to have a say on the policies enacted by the lawmakers they elected to serve them in our state Legislature. Voters have an important opportunity to weigh in on whether they believe these policies are successful and let the next Legislature and governor know that either they approve or disapprove of the outcomes and results of the polices.

Edward Cale (D)

No. the process is effective and the most fair thus far.

Jim Clark (No party preference)

I support the current state ballot initiative process and would support changes to make online signatures an option. As long as a voter's signature and/or approval can be verified, then that should count towards the required number of valid signatures for a complete/successful filing.

Jennifer Hoover (R)

That all depends on who's in charge and how corrupt they are, or are not. When someone is "untouchable" and the choices they make don't even involve or listen to the people's choices, I would not be in support of that Leader. What I believe will work best for us is to instill greater accountability, with frequent checks and input from the people with full transparency. So the power to make choices, is held accountable to the people who respond to those choices. In other words, accountability is key.

Rosetta Marshall-Williams (Independence)

In 1912, Washington became one of the first states to adopt the initiative and referendum process, thus securing the rights of citizens to make and remake their laws, and to provide a check over the decisions of their Legislature.

Today, if Washingtonians are dissatisfied with certain laws or feel new laws are needed, they can petition to place proposed legislation on the ballot. The process is termed INITIATIVE because the electorate can initiate legislation. The electorate can either place a proposition directly on the ballot or it can submit the proposed law to the Legislature at the regular legislative session allowing the elected representatives an opportunity to enact the proposed legislation themselves instead of placing the matter on the ballot. The REFERENDUM allows citizens, through the petition process, to refer acts of the Legislature to the ballot before they become law. The referendum also permits the Legislature itself to refer proposed legislation to the electorate for approval or rejection. The initiative and referendum processes guarantee Washington’s electorate the right to legislate. Sponsors of initiative or referendum measures must obtain a substantial number of petition signatures from registered voters in order to certify their measures to the ballot or to the Legislature. Washington’s history has shown the initiative and referendum processes to be effective in protecting the people’s interests. In fact, many of our most significant laws, such as our public disclosure laws, were enacted by this process.

Allow me to speak from the grave of the Marshall descendants of Chief Justice John Marshall: Why reinvent the Wheel, when this constitution was written in the light and faith of the founding fathers?

Mark Mullet (D)

I support the initiative process and think it is an excellent way for voters to let the legislature know if they approve or disagree with what is happening in Olympia.

Dave Reichert (R)

Oppose changes.

Bobbie Samons (No party preference)

I don't support HB1826, as it's very duplicitous and takes advantage of the political ignorance of the People. Someone needs to go ahead and inform me how keeping the People ignorant of political party affiliations on the primary BALLOT benefits the political awareness of the People who hold ALL political power. I won't be holding my breath for that explanation though, because someone is going to have to dig DEEP in the no-response responses bucket to get that one.

HB2023 is good, as the People of this state don't just speak English. My comment on HB1816 is, what is wrong with public servant and elected official thinking patterns. We're just going to prohibit the forwarding of ballots now. So, if I'm in the midst of relocating, I'm just going to miss out on voting because the county auditor received my forwarding address label and can't send it. What's worse is, when the auditor receives it, we're put on an inactive list, then notified using the forwarding address. How completely asinine. Only people who are distinctly out of touch with the everyday life of the People would come up with something so astronomically ignorant. HB1475 is okay, but using electronic software to submit ballots is subjecting the People to corruptive voting practices. We know the political parties actively practice voter fraud, so perpetuating that potentiality by allowing their friends to create voting software that they control is about as asinine and ignorant as preventing us from forwarding our ballots.

HB1708 is rather innocuous, but we have to keep in mind, these political parties find it in their best interest to give us all a number and track us. While I would like to see my ballots and have an identification number, allowing this to be in legislation means, we're allowing the political parties to strip us of it.

Andre Stackhouse (G)

Yes - ballot initiatives in Washington need to be expanded and citizens empowered to be more active in this process. There are a number of ways to do so. First, the initiative process must be given all the same legislative powers as our elected legislature holds including the ability to amend our state constitution.

Second, there should be public financing for initiative campaigns making it affordable for organic grassroots movements to get their proposals on the ballot and voted into law without having to raise millions of dollars to do so.

Third, initiative campaigns should be able to gather signatures digitally. Voter registration is done digitally so there is really no reason a signature couldn't be validated digitally. This would make it much easier for people to sign initiatives and make it much easier for initiative campaigns to successfully collect the signatures and public support needed to reach the ballot. The signature threshold may be reconsidered with the addition of digital gathering, but it should not be prohibitively high either.

Last, protections should be put into the process to ensure that initiative campaigns are of high quality and not open to abuse through astroturf and political spending. Initiatives should reflect organic grassroots efforts and not be trivial for the wealthy to pay for the necessary signature gathering to reach the ballot without building real support.

### Campaign ads[edit]

####  Semi Bird[edit]

February 14, 2024

July 16, 2023

November 12, 2022

View more ads here:

* YouTube
* Facebook

####  Bob Ferguson[edit]

June 24, 2024

May 2, 2023

View more ads here:

* YouTube
* Facebook

####  Mark Mullet[edit]

April 25, 2024

June 1, 2023

View more ads here:

* YouTube
* Facebook

####  Dave Reichert[edit]

June 7, 2024

April 9, 2024

April 5, 2024

View more ads here:

* YouTube
* Facebook

### Debates and forums[edit]

This section includes links to debates, forums, and other similar events where multiple candidates in this race participated. If you are aware of any debates or forums that should be included, please email us.

#### July 7, 2024, candidate forum[edit]

KOMO News released a town hall, interviewing Bird, Ferguson, Mullet, and Reichert separately.[17]

* Click here to watch a recording of the event

## Noteworthy endorsements[edit]

See also: Ballotpedia: Our approach to covering endorsements

This section lists noteworthy endorsements issued in this election, including those made by high-profile individuals and organizations, cross-party endorsements, and endorsements made by newspaper editorial boards. It also includes a bulleted list of links to official lists of endorsements for any candidates who published that information on their campaign websites. Please note that this list is not exhaustive. If you are aware of endorsements that should be included, please click here.

* Semi Bird
* Bob Ferguson
* Mark Mullet
* Dave Reichert

Top-two primary endorsements

Endorser |  Bob Ferguson |  Mark Mullet |  Semi Bird |  Dave Reichert
Government officials
U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
U.S. Sen. Patty Murray (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
U.S. Rep. Suzan DelBene (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
U.S. Rep. D. Adam Smith (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Andy Billig (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Matt Boehnke (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Sen. Annette Cleveland (D) source |  | ✔ |  |
State Sen. Phil Fortunato (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Sen. Chris Gildon (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Sen. Drew Hansen (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Bob Hasegawa (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Jeff Holy (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Sen. Sam Hunt (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Claudia Kauffman (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Karen Keiser (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Patricia Kuderer (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Marko Liias (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Liz Lovelett (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. John Lovick (D) source |  | ✔ |  |
State Sen. Drew MacEwen (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Sen. Joe Nguyen source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Jamie Pedersen (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Emily Randall (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. June Robinson (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Christine Rolfes (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Rebecca Saldana (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Jesse Salomon (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Sharon Shewmake (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Shelly Short (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Sen. Derek Stanford (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Yasmin Trudeau (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Javier Valdez (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Keith Wagoner (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Sen. Judith Warnick (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Sen. Kevin Van De Wege (D) source |  | ✔ |  |
State Sen. Lisa Wellman (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Claire Wilson (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Sen. Jeff Wilson (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Peter Abbarno (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Emily Alvarado (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Andrew Barkis (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Jessica Bateman (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. April Berg (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Steve Bergquist (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Liz Berry (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Dan Bronoske (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Michelle Caldier (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Kelly Chambers (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Mike Chapman (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Greg Cheney (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Leonard Christian (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. April Connors (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Julio Cortes (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Travis Couture (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Lauren Davis (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Tom Dent (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Beth Doglio (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Brandy Donaghy (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Davina Duerr (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Mary Dye (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Debra Entenman (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Mary Fosse (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Keith Goehner (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Roger Goodman (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Jenny Graham (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Mia Gregerson (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Dan Griffey (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. David Hackney (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Spencer Hutchins (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Cyndy Jacobsen (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Laurie Jinkins (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Mark Klicker (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Joel Kretz (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Mari Leavitt (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Debra Lekanoff (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Sam Low (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Nicole Macri (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Jacquelin Maycumber (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Stephanie McClintock (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Joel McEntire (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Sharlett Mena (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Timm Ormsby (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Lillian Ortiz-Self (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Tina Orwall (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Strom Peterson (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Gerry Pollet (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Alex Ramel (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Bill Ramos (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Julia Reed (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Marcus Riccelli (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Eric Robertson (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Skyler Rude (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Cindy Ryu (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Bryan Sandlin (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Suzanne Schmidt (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Tana Senn source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Clyde Shavers (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Tarra Simmons (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Vandana Slatter (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Larry Springer (D) source |  | ✔ |  |
State Rep. Chris Stearns (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Mike Steele (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Drew Stokesbary (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Monica Jurado Stonier (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Chipalo Street (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Jamila Taylor (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. My-Linh Thai (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Joe Timmons (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. J.T. Wilcox (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
State Rep. Sharon Wylie (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Alex Ybarra (R) source |  |  |  | ✔
Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs (D) source |  | ✔ |  |
Washington State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti (D) source | ✔ |  |  |
Individuals
Frmr. Gubernatorial Candidate Loren Culp source |  |  | ✔ |
Frmr. state Sen. Mona Das source | ✔ |  |  |
Frmr. state Sen. Laurie Dolan source | ✔ |  |  |
Frmr. state Rep. Deborah Eddy source | ✔ |  |  |
Frmr. state Sen. Dave Frockt source | ✔ |  |  |
Frmr. Gov. Christine Gregoire source | ✔ |  |  |
Frmr. State Sen. Brian Hatfield source |  | ✔ |  |
Frmr. state Rep. Jesse Johnson source | ✔ |  |  |
Frmr. state Rep. Ruth Kagi source | ✔ |  |  |
Frmr. state Rep. Phyllis Gutiérrez Kenney source | ✔ |  |  |
Frmr. state Sen. Adam Kline source | ✔ |  |  |
Frmr. state Rep. Jared Mead source |  | ✔ |  |
Frmr. State Sen. Sharon Nelson source |  | ✔ |  |
Frmr. state Rep. Tim Probst source | ✔ |  |  |
Frmr. state Sen. Kevin Ranker source | ✔ |  |  |
Frmr. state Sen. Debbie Regala source | ✔ |  |  |
Frmr. state Rep. Sandra Romero source | ✔ |  |  |
Frmr. state Rep. Larry Seaquist source | ✔ |  |  |
Frmr. state Rep. Gael Tarleton source | ✔ |  |  |
State Rep. Amy Walen source |  | ✔ |  |
Frmr. state Rep. Deb Wallace source | ✔ |  |  |
Newspapers and editorials
The Seattle Times source | ✔ |  |  |
Organizations
American Federation of Government Employees source | ✔ |  |  |
Brady PAC source | ✔ |  |  |
Communications Workers of America source | ✔ |  |  |
Fuse Washington source | ✔ |  |  |
International Federation of Professional & Technical Engineers source | ✔ |  |  |
OneAmerica Votes source | ✔ |  |  |
Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates source | ✔ |  |  |
Sierra Club source | ✔ |  |  |
United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America source | ✔ |  |  |
United Farm Workers of America source | ✔ |  |  |
Washington Conservation Action source | ✔ |  |  |
Washington Council of Police and Sheriffs source 1 source 2 |  | ✔ |  | ✔
Washington Housing Alliance Action Fund source | ✔ |  |  |
Washington State Labor Council source | ✔ |  |  |
Washington State Republican Party source |  |  | ✔ |

## Election competitiveness[edit]

### Polls[edit]

See also: Ballotpedia's approach to covering polls

Polls are conducted with a variety of methodologies and have margins of error or credibility intervals.[18] The Pew Research Center wrote, "A margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points at the 95% confidence level means that if we fielded the same survey 100 times, we would expect the result to be within 3 percentage points of the true population value 95 of those times."[19] For tips on reading polls from FiveThirtyEight, click here. For tips from Pew, click here.

Below we provide results for polls that are included in polling aggregation from FiveThirtyEight and RealClearPolitics, when available. Click here to read about FiveThirtyEight's criteria for including polls in its aggregation. We only report polls for which we can find a margin of error or credibility interval.

Washington gubernatorial election, 2024: top-two primary election polls

Poll  | Date  |  Ferguson  |  Mullet  |  Bird  |  Reichert  | Undecided/Other  | Margin of error  | Sample size[20] | Sponsor[21]
SurveyUSA | July 10-13, 2024 | 42% | 4% | 7% | 33% | 14%[22] | ± 5.2 | 564 LV | KING-TV (Seattle), The Seattle Times, University of Washington's Center for an Informed Public
Cascade PBS/Elway | May 13-16, 2024 | 22% | 6% | 5% | 20% | 47%[23] | ± 5.0 | 403 RV | N/A

### Race ratings[edit]

See also: Race rating definitions and methods

Ballotpedia provides race ratings from four outlets: The Cook Political Report, Inside Elections, Sabato's Crystal Ball, and DDHQ/The Hill. Each race rating indicates if one party is perceived to have an advantage in the race and, if so, the degree of advantage:

* Safe and Solid ratings indicate that one party has a clear edge and the race is not competitive.
* Likely ratings indicate that one party has a clear edge, but an upset is possible.
* Lean ratings indicate that one party has a small edge, but the race is competitive.[24]
* Toss-up ratings indicate that neither party has an advantage.

Race ratings are informed by a number of factors, including polling, candidate quality, and election result history in the race's district or state.[25][26][27]

Race ratings: Washington gubernatorial election, 2024

Race tracker| Race ratings
| November 5, 2024| October 29, 2024| October 22, 2024| October 15, 2024
The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter| Likely Democratic| Likely Democratic| Likely Democratic| Likely Democratic
Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales| Likely Democratic| Likely Democratic| Likely Democratic| Likely Democratic
Larry J. Sabato's Crystal Ball| Likely Democratic| Likely Democratic| Likely Democratic| Likely Democratic
Note: Ballotpedia reviews external race ratings every week throughout the election season and posts weekly updates even if the media outlets have not revised their ratings during that week.

## Election spending[edit]

### Campaign finance[edit]

This section contains campaign finance figures from candidates submitted to Washington's Public Disclosure Commission in this election. It does not include information on spending by satellite groups. Click here to access the reports.

### Satellite spending[edit]

See also: Satellite spending

Satellite spending describes political spending not controlled by candidates or their campaigns; that is, any political expenditures made by groups or individuals that are not directly affiliated with a candidate. This includes spending by political party committees, super PACs, trade associations, and 501(c)(4) nonprofit groups.[28][29]

If available, satellite spending reports by the Federal Election Commission (FEC) and OpenSecrets.org are linked below. FEC links include totals from monthly, quarterly, and semi-annual reports. OpenSecrets.org compiles data from those reports as well as 24- and 48-hour reports from the FEC.[30]

Details about satellite spending of significant amounts and/or reported by media are included below those links. The amounts listed may not represent the total satellite spending in the election. To notify us of additional satellite spending, email us.

By candidate

* Semi Bird
* Bob Ferguson
* Mark Mullet
* Dave Reichert

#### Spending news[edit]

* Coalition for Pragmatic Leadership spent $843,700 on TV ads in support of Mullet on April 15, 2024.[31]
* Concerned Taxpayers Accountability Center spent $1,286.59 on a website and post cards in opposition to Bird in April 2024.[32]

## Election analysis[edit]

Click the tabs below to view information about demographics, past elections, and partisan control of the state.

* Presidential elections \- Information about presidential elections in the state.
* Statewide elections \- Information about recent U.S. Senate and gubernatorial elections in the state.
* State partisanship \- The partisan makeup of the state's congressional delegation and state government.
* Demographics \- Information about the state's demographics and how they compare to the country as a whole.

* Presidential elections

* Statewide elections
* State partisanship

* Demographics

See also: Presidential voting trends in Washington and The Cook Political Report's Partisan Voter Index

### Cook PVI by congressional district

Cook Political Report's Partisan Voter Index for Washington, 2024

District | Incumbent | Party | PVI
Washington's 1st | Suzan DelBene  |  Democratic | D+13
Washington's 2nd | Rick Larsen  |  Democratic | D+9
Washington's 3rd | Marie Gluesenkamp Perez |  Democratic | R+5
Washington's 4th | Dan Newhouse  |  Republican | R+11
Washington's 5th | Cathy McMorris Rodgers  |  Republican | R+8
Washington's 6th | Derek Kilmer  |  Democratic | D+6
Washington's 7th | Pramila Jayapal  |  Democratic | D+36
Washington's 8th | Kim Schrier  |  Democratic | D+1
Washington's 9th | Adam Smith  |  Democratic | D+21
Washington's 10th | Marilyn Strickland  |  Democratic | D+7

### 2020 presidential results by 2024 congressional district lines

2020 presidential results in congressional districts based on 2024 district lines, Washington[33]

District  | Joe Biden | Donald Trump
Washington's 1st | 64.0% | 33.3%
Washington's 2nd | 60.1% | 37.2%
Washington's 3rd | 46.6% | 50.8%
Washington's 4th | 40.3% | 57.2%
Washington's 5th | 43.5% | 53.5%
Washington's 6th | 57.1% | 39.9%
Washington's 7th | 86.8% | 11.3%
Washington's 8th | 52.0% | 45.3%
Washington's 9th | 71.5% | 26.3%
Washington's 10th | 57.3% | 39.6%

### 2012-2020

How a state's counties vote in a presidential election and the size of those counties can provide additional insights into election outcomes at other levels of government including statewide and congressional races. Below, four categories are used to describe each county's voting pattern over the 2012, 2016, and 2020 presidential elections: Solid, Trending, Battleground, and New. Click [show] on the table below for examples:

County-level voting pattern categories

Democratic
Status  | 2012  | 2016  | 2020
Solid Democratic | D | D | D
Trending Democratic | R | D | D
Battleground Democratic | D | R | D
New Democratic | R | R | D
Republican
Status  | 2012  | 2016  | 2020
Solid Republican | R | R | R
Trending Republican | D | R | R
Battleground Republican | R | D | R
New Republican | D | D | R

Following the 2020 presidential election, 72.5% of Washingtonians lived in one of the state's 11 Solid Democratic counties, which voted for the Democratic presidential candidate in every election from 2012 to 2020, and 22.3% lived in one of 22 Solid Republican counties. Overall, Washington was Solid Democratic, having voted for Barack Obama (D) in 2012, Hillary Clinton (D) in 2016, and Joe Biden (D) in 2020. Use the table below to view the total number of each type of county in Washington following the 2020 election as well as the overall percentage of the state population located in each county type.

Washington county-level statistics, 2020

Solid Democratic | 11 | 72.5%
Solid Republican | 22 | 22.3%
Trending Republican | 4 | 3.6%
Battleground Democratic | 1 | 1.0%
Trending Democratic | 1 | 0.6%
Total voted Democratic | 13 | 74.1%
Total voted Republican | 26 | 25.9%

### Historical voting trends

Washington presidential election results (1900-2020)

* 17 Democratic wins
* 13 Republican wins
* 1 other win

Year  | 1900  | 1904  | 1908  | 1912  | 1916  | 1920  | 1924  | 1928  | 1932  | 1936  | 1940  | 1944  | 1948  | 1952  | 1956  | 1960  | 1964  | 1968  | 1972  | 1976  | 1980  | 1984  | 1988  | 1992  | 1996  | 2000  | 2004  | 2008  | 2012  | 2016  | 2020

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Winning Party | R | R | R | P[34] | D | R | R | R | D | D | D | D | D | R | R | R | D | D | R | R | R | R | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D

This section details the results of the five most recent U.S. Senate and gubernatorial elections held in the state.

### U.S. Senate elections[edit]

See also: List of United States Senators from Washington

The table below details the vote in the five most recent U.S. Senate races in Washington.

U.S. Senate election results in Washington

Race  | Winner  | Runner up
2022 | 57.1% | 42.6%
2018 | 58.3% | 41.5%
2016 | 58.8% | 40.9%
2012 | 60.4% | 39.5%
2010 | 52.1% | 47.4%
Average  | 57.3  | 42.4

### Gubernatorial elections[edit]

See also: Governor of Washington

The table below details the vote in the five most recent gubernatorial elections in Washington.

Gubernatorial election results in Washington

Race  | Winner  | Runner up
2020 | 56.6% | 43.1%
2016 | 54.2% | 45.5%
2012 | 51.4% | 48.3%
2008 | 53.0% | 46.6%
2004 | 48.9% | 48.9%
Average  | 52.8  | 46.5

See also: Party control of Washington state government

### Congressional delegation

The table below displays the partisan composition of Washington's congressional delegation as of May 2024.

Congressional Partisan Breakdown from Washington

Party | U.S. Senate | U.S. House | Total
Democratic | 2 | 8 | 10
Republican | 0 | 2 | 2
Independent | 0 | 0 | 0
Vacancies | 0 | 0 | 0
Total | 2 | 10 | 12

### State executive

The table below displays the officeholders in Washington's top four state executive offices as of May 2024.

State executive officials in Washington, May 2024

Office | Officeholder
Governor |  Jay Inslee
Lieutenant Governor |  Denny Heck
Secretary of State |  Steve Hobbs
Attorney General |  Bob Ferguson

### State legislature

#### Washington State Senate[edit]

Party  | As of February 2024

|

| Democratic Party | 29
| Republican Party | 20
| Other  | 0
| Vacancies  | 0
Total |  49

#### Washington House of Representatives[edit]

Party  | As of February 2024

|

| Democratic Party | 58
| Republican Party | 40
| Other  | 0
| Vacancies  | 0
Total |  98

### Trifecta control

The table below shows the state's trifecta status from 1992 until the 2024 election.

Washington Party Control: 1992-2024
Eighteen years of Democratic trifectas • No Republican trifectas
Scroll left and right on the table below to view more years.

Year  | 92  | 93  | 94  | 95  | 96  | 97  | 98  | 99  | 00  | 01  | 02  | 03  | 04  | 05  | 06  | 07  | 08  | 09  | 10  | 11  | 12  | 13  | 14  | 15  | 16  | 17  | 18  | 19  | 20  | 21  | 22  | 23  | 24

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Governor | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D
Senate | R | D | D | D | D | R | R | D | D | D | D | R | R | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | R | R | R | R | R[35] | D | D | D | D | D | D | D
House | D | D | D | R | R | R | R | S | S | S | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | D

The table below details demographic data in Washington and compares it to the broader United States as of 2022.

Demographic Data for Washington

| Washington | United States
Population | 7,705,281 | 331,449,281
Land area (sq mi) | 66,455 | 3,531,905
Race and ethnicity**
White | 69.9% | 65.9%
Black/African American | 3.9% | 12.5%
Asian | 9.2% | 5.8%
Native American | 1.2% | 0.8%
Pacific Islander | 0.7% | 0.2%
Other (single race) | 5.2% | 6%
Multiple | 9.9% | 8.8%
Hispanic/Latino | 13.5% | 18.7%
Education
High school graduation rate | 92.1% | 89.1%
College graduation rate | 38% | 34.3%
Income
Median household income | $90,325 | $75,149
Persons below poverty level | 6.3% | 8.8%
Source: population provided by U.S. Census Bureau, "Decennial Census" (2020). Other figures provided by U.S. Census Bureau, "American Community Survey" (5-year estimates 2017-2022).
**Note: Percentages for race and ethnicity may add up to more than 100 percent because respondents may report more than one race and the Hispanic/Latino ethnicity may be selected in conjunction with any race. Read more about race and ethnicity in the census here.

## Election context[edit]

### Ballot access requirements[edit]

Declaration of candidacy form, 2013

See statutes: Chapter 29A.24 of the Washington Election Code

A candidate who desires to have his or her name printed on the ballot for election to an office other than president or vice president must complete and file a declaration of candidacy. The candidate must do the following:

* declare that he or she is a registered voter within the jurisdiction of the office for which he or she is filing (the candidate must include the address at which he or she is registered)
* indicate the position for which he or she is filing
* state a party preference, if the office is a partisan office
* indicate the amount of the filing fee accompanying the declaration of candidacy (the candidate may also indicate that he or she is filing a petition in lieu of the filing fee)
* sign the declaration of candidacy, stating that the information provided on the form is true and swearing or affirming that he or she will support the constitution and laws of the United States and the constitution and laws of the state of Washington[36]

The filing period for candidates begins on the first Monday in May and ends the following Friday in the year in which the office is scheduled to be voted upon. For statewide offices and state legislative districts, candidates file with the secretary of state. Candidates must also submit the declaration of candidacy to the Washington Public Disclosure Commission within one business day after the filing period has ended.[37][38]

A filing fee equal to 1 percent of the annual salary of the office at the time of filing must accompany the declaration of candidacy for any office with a fixed annual salary of more than $1,000. For offices that pay less than $1,000, candidates must pay a filing fee of $10.[39] A candidate who lacks sufficient assets or income at the time of filing may submit with his or her declaration of candidacy a filing fee petition. The petition must contain signatures from registered voters equal to the number of dollars of the filing fee.

### For write-in candidates[edit]

Any person who desires to be a write-in candidate and have his or her votes counted at a primary or general election can file a declaration of candidacy with the Washington Secretary of State and the Washington Public Disclosure Commission up to 8:00 p.m. on the day of the primary or general election. A declaration of candidacy for a write-in candidate must be accompanied by a filing fee or a filing fee petition with the required signatures if filing within 18 days of the election (fees and signature requirements are the same as those summarized above).[40]

### Washington gubernatorial election history[edit]

#### 2020[edit]

#### General election

##### General election for Governor of Washington

Incumbent Jay Inslee defeated Loren Culp in the general election for Governor of Washington on November 3, 2020.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

| Jay Inslee (D) |

56.6

| 2,294,243

| Loren Culp (R) |

43.1

| 1,749,066
|  | Other/Write-in votes|

0.3

| 13,145

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 4,056,454

|
|

= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

#### Nonpartisan primary election

##### Nonpartisan primary for Governor of Washington

The following candidates ran in the primary for Governor of Washington on August 4, 2020.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

| Jay Inslee (D) |

50.1

| 1,247,916

| Loren Culp (R) |

17.4

| 433,238

| Joshua Freed (R) |

8.9

| 222,553

| Tim Eyman (R) |

6.4

| 159,495

| Raul Garcia (R) |

5.4

| 135,045

| Phil Fortunato (R) |

4.0

| 99,265

| Don Rivers (D) |

1.0

| 25,601

| Leon Lawson (Trump Republican Party) |

0.9

| 23,073

| Liz Hallock (G) |

0.9

| 21,537

| Cairo D'Almeida (D) |

0.6

| 14,657

| Anton Sakharov (Trump Republican Party) |

0.6

| 13,935

| Nate Herzog (Pre-2016 Republican Party) |

0.5

| 11,303

Submit photo

| Gene Hart (D) |

0.4

| 10,605

Submit photo

| Omari Tahir-Garrett (D) |

0.4

| 8,751

Submit photo

| Ryan Ryals (Unaffiliated) |

0.3

| 6,264

| Henry Dennison (Socialist Workers Party) |

0.2

| 5,970

| GoodSpaceGuy (Trump Republican Party) |

0.2

| 5,646

| Richard Carpenter (R) |

0.2

| 4,962

Submit photo

| Elaina Gonzalez (Independent) |

0.2

| 4,772

Submit photo

| Matthew Murray (R) |

0.2

| 4,489

| Thor Amundson (Independent) |

0.1

| 3,638

| Bill Hirt (R) |

0.1

| 2,854

Submit photo

| Martin Wheeler (R) |

0.1

| 2,686

Submit photo

| Ian Gonzales (R) |

0.1

| 2,537

| Joshua Wolf (New Liberty Party) |

0.1

| 2,315

| Cregan Newhouse (Unaffiliated) |

0.1

| 2,291

Submit photo

| Brian Weed (Unaffiliated) |

0.1

| 2,178

| Alex Tsimerman (Standup-America Party) |

0.1

| 1,721

Submit photo

| Tylor Grow (R) |

0.1

| 1,509

| Dylan Nails (Independent) |

0.1

| 1,470

Submit photo

| Craig Campbell (Unaffiliated) |

0.0

| 1,178

Submit photo

| William Miller (American Patriot Party) |

0.0

| 1,148

Submit photo

| Cameron Vessey (Unaffiliated) |

0.0

| 718

Submit photo

| Winston Wilkes (Propertarianist Party) |

0.0

| 702

| David Blomstrom (Fifth Republic Party) |

0.0

| 519

Submit photo

| David Voltz (Cascadia Labour Party) |

0.0

| 480
|  | Other/Write-in votes|

0.1

| 1,938

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 2,488,959

|
|

= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

#### Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

* Mathew Mackenzie (R)
* Phillip Bailey (D)
* Asa Palagi (Independent)
* Lisa Thomas (Unaffiliated)
* Matthew Heines (Unaffiliated)

#### 2016[edit]

Incumbent Jay Inslee defeated Bill Bryant in the Washington governor election.

Washington Governor, 2016

Party | Candidate | Vote % | Votes
| Democratic  |  Jay Inslee Incumbent | 54.24% | 1,760,520
| Republican  | Bill Bryant | 45.49% | 1,476,346
|  | Write-in votes | 0.26% | 8,416
Total Votes | 3,245,282
Source: Washington Secretary of State

#### 2012[edit]

Governor of Washington General Election, 2012

Party | Candidate | Vote % | Votes
| Democratic  | Jay Inslee | 51.4% | 1,582,802
| Republican  |  Rob McKenna  | 48.3% | 1,488,245
| Other  |  Write-in votes  | 0.3% | 8,592
Total Votes | 3,079,639
Election results via Washington Secretary of State

#### Earlier results[edit]

To view the electoral history dating back to 2000 for the office of Governor of Washington, click [show] to expand the section.

|

2008

On November 4, 2008, Christine Gregoire won re-election to the office of Governor of Washington. She defeated Dino Rossi in the general election.

| Governor of Washington, 2008

Party | Candidate | Vote % | Votes
| Democratic  | Christine Gregoire Incumbent | 53.2% | 1,598,738
| Republican  |  Dino Rossi | 46.8% | 1,404,124
Total Votes | 3,002,862
Election results via Washington Secretary of State.

2004

On November 2, 2004, Christine Gregoire won election to the office of Governor of Washington. She defeated Dino Rossi, Ruth Bennett in the general election.

Governor of Washington, 2004

Party | Candidate | Vote % | Votes
| Democratic  | Christine Gregoire | 48.9% | 1,373,361
| Republican  |  Dino Rossi  | 48.9% | 1,373,228
| Libertarian  |  Ruth Bennett  | 2.3% | 63,464
Total Votes | 2,810,053
Election results via Washington Secretary of State.

2000

On November 7, 2000, Gary Locke won re-election to the office of Governor of Washington. He defeated John Carlson, Steve W. LePage in the general election.

Governor of Washington, 2000

Party | Candidate | Vote % | Votes
| Democratic  | Gary Locke Incumbent | 58.4% | 1,441,973
| Republican  |  John Carlson  | 39.7% | 980,060
| Libertarian  |  Steve W. LePage  | 1.9% | 47,819
Total Votes | 2,469,852
Election results via Washington Secretary of State.

## State profile[edit]

Demographic data for Washington

| Washington| U.S.
Total population:| 7,160,290| 316,515,021
Land area (sq mi):| 66,456| 3,531,905
Race and ethnicity**
White:| 77.8%| 73.6%
Black/African American:| 3.6%| 12.6%
Asian:| 7.7%| 5.1%
Native American:| 1.3%| 0.8%
Pacific Islander:| 0.6%| 0.2%
Two or more:| 5.2%| 3%
Hispanic/Latino:| 12%| 17.1%
Education
High school graduation rate:| 90.4%| 86.7%
College graduation rate:| 32.9%| 29.8%
Income
Median household income:| $61,062| $53,889
Persons below poverty level:| 14.4%| 11.3%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, "American Community Survey" (5-year estimates 2010-2015)
Click here for more information on the 2020 census and here for more on its impact on the redistricting process in Washington.

* * *

**Note: Percentages for race and ethnicity may add up to more than 100 percent because respondents may report more than one race and the Hispanic/Latino ethnicity may be selected in conjunction with any race. Read more about race and ethnicity in the census here.

### Presidential voting pattern[edit]

See also: Presidential voting trends in Washington

Washington voted for the Democratic candidate in all seven presidential elections between 2000 and 2024.

#### Pivot Counties (2016)

Ballotpedia identified 206 counties that voted for Donald Trump (R) in 2016 after voting for Barack Obama (D) in 2008 and 2012. Collectively, Trump won these Pivot Counties by more than 580,000 votes. Of these 206 counties, five are located in Washington, accounting for 2.43 percent of the total pivot counties.[41]

#### Pivot Counties (2020)

In 2020, Ballotpedia re-examined the 206 Pivot Counties to view their voting patterns following that year's presidential election. Ballotpedia defined those won by Trump won as Retained Pivot Counties and those won by Joe Biden (D) as Boomerang Pivot Counties. Nationwide, there were 181 Retained Pivot Counties and 25 Boomerang Pivot Counties. Washington had four Retained Pivot Counties and one Boomerang Pivot County, accounting for 2.21 and 4.00 percent of all Retained and Boomerang Pivot Counties, respectively.

More Washington coverage on Ballotpedia

* Elections in Washington
* United States congressional delegations from Washington
* Public policy in Washington
* Endorsers in Washington
* Washington fact checks
* More...

## 2024 battleground elections[edit]

See also: Battlegrounds

This was a battleground election. Other 2024 battleground elections included:

* Arizona's 3rd Congressional District election, 2024 (July 30 Democratic primary)
* California's 20th Congressional District election, 2024 (March 5 top-two primary)
* New York's 3rd Congressional District special election, 2024

## See also[edit]

Washington | State Executive Elections | News and Analysis

|
|

Washington State Executive Offices Washington State Legislature Washington Courts |  2026 • 2025 • 2024 • 2023 • 2022 • 2021 • 2020 • 2019 • 2018 • 2017 • 2016 Washington elections: 2026 • 2025 • 2024 • 2023 • 2022 • 2021 • 2020 • 2019 • 2018 • 2017 • 2016 |  Party control of state government State government trifectas State of the state addresses Partisan composition of governors

## External links[edit]

| Suggest a link

|

* Search Google News for this topic
* Governor of Washington official website

## Footnotes[edit]

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 The Seattle Times, "WA gears up for governor race. Here’s where Democratic candidates stand," March 25, 2024
2. ↑ Washington State Standard, "Rival Democrats spar over fundraising maneuvers in Washington governor’s race," June 17, 2024
3. ↑ The Seattle Times, "State Sen. Mark Mullet announces bid for WA governor," June 1, 2023
4. ↑ Politico, "For real this time: Can a Republican win the Washington governor’s race?" December 24, 2023
5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 The Seattle Times, "Former U.S. Rep. Dave Reichert announces run for WA governor," July 7, 2023
6. ↑ The Seattle Times, "Semi Bird challenging Dave Reichert for GOP nomination for WA governor," November 26, 2023
7. ↑ Washington State Standard, "Reichert works to fend off Democrats’ claims he’d try to restrict abortion as governor," June 12, 2024
8. ↑ The Seattle Times, "Will Dave Reichert vote for Trump? He gave his answer at a GOP event," June 6, 2024
9. ↑ The Seattle Times, "GOP candidates battle for endorsement in WA governor race," April 8, 2024
10. ↑ KIRO 7 , "Top 4 gubernatorial candidates speak to KIRO 7," July 31, 2024
11. ↑ The Seattle Times , "WA gubernatorial candidates talk education," July 29, 2024
12. ↑ The Columbian, "Bob Ferguson has single-digit lead over Dave Reichert in new WA Poll," July 16, 2024
13. ↑ KOMO News, "KOMO News Town Hall: The Race for Governor," July 7, 2024
14. ↑ Cascade PBS/Elway Poll, "May 2024," accessed June 17, 2024
15. ↑ The Cascadia Advocate, "Corporate backers of Mark Mullet launch an independent expenditure to boost his flagging campaign," April 23, 2024
16. ↑ Public Disclosure Commission, "Misipati Semi Bird (Semi Bird) - 2024," accessed June 21, 2024
17. ↑ KOMO News, "KOMO News Town Hall: The Race for Governor," July 7, 2024
18. ↑ For more information on the difference between margins of error and credibility intervals, see explanations from the American Association for Public Opinion Research and Ipsos.
19. ↑ Pew Research Center, "5 key things to know about the margin of error in election polls," September 8, 2016
20. ↑ RV=Registered Voters
LV=Likely Voters
21. ↑ The sponsor is the person or group that funded all or part of the poll.
22. ↑ Undecided
23. ↑ Undecided
24. ↑ Inside Elections also uses Tilt ratings to indicate an even smaller advantage and greater competitiveness.
25. ↑ Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Nathan Gonzalez," April 19, 2018
26. ↑ Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Kyle Kondik," April 19, 2018
27. ↑ Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Charlie Cook," April 22, 2018
28. ↑ OpenSecrets.org, "Outside Spending," accessed December 12, 2021
29. ↑ OpenSecrets.org, "Total Outside Spending by Election Cycle, All Groups," accessed December 12, 2021
30. ↑ Amee LaTour, Email correspondence with the Center for Responsive Politics, August 5, 2022
31. ↑ The Cascadia Advocate, "Corporate backers of Mark Mullet launch an independent expenditure to boost his flagging campaign," April 23, 2024
32. ↑ Public Disclosure Commission, "Misipati Semi Bird (Semi Bird) - 2024," accessed June 21, 2024
33. ↑ Daily Kos, "Daily Kos Elections' presidential results by congressional district for 2020, 2016, and 2012," accessed December 15, 2023
34. ↑ Progressive Party
35. ↑ Democrats gained full control of the state Senate after a special election on November 7, 2017.
36. ↑ Washington Election Code, "Chapter 29A.24.031," accessed April 29, 2025
37. ↑ Washington Election Code, "Chapter 29A.24.050," accessed April 29, 2025
38. ↑ Washington Election Code, "Chapter 29A.24.070," accessed April 29, 2025
39. ↑ Washington Election Code, "Chapter 29A.24.091," accessed April 29, 2025
40. ↑ Washington Election Code, "Chapter 29A.24.311," accessed April 29, 2025
41. ↑ The raw data for this study was provided by Dave Leip of Atlas of U.S. Presidential Elections.

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