Washington Voters Decide Key Executive, Mayoral Races Amid Budget, Social Challenges

Washington state held its 2025 General Election with key races and measures impacting leadership and policy direction in major cities like Seattle, Tacoma, and King County. Among the pivotal contests was the Seattle mayoral race, where incumbent Bruce Harrell faced a strong challenge from community organizer Katie Wilson, who led in the primary; Harrell's campaign benefited from significantly more outside funding, while Wilson advocated for progressive tax reforms to address income inequality. King County voters chose between council members Girmay Zahilay and Claudia Balducci for the executive role, a position critical for guiding regional responses to homelessness and climate issues. Tacoma residents were set to elect a new mayor following Victoria Woodards's term limit, with candidates John Hines and Anders Ibsen focusing on housing, public safety, and budget concerns. The election also included a significant ballot measure, State Measure No. 8201, proposing to expand investment options for the WA Cares Fund to potentially increase long-term care benefits. Additionally, Seattle's city attorney race featured incumbent Ann Davison against challenger Erika Evans, with the role central to legal defense and misdemeanor prosecution in the city.