Politics and Government

An Asian woman with straight long black hair, Chunn sits at a table gesturing broadly with hands talking to the man seated next to her.

Jeanie Chunn Wants to Reverse D2’s Neglect in Seattle Council Bid

Longtime small business and workers’ rights advocate Jeanie Chunn jumped into the race for Seattle City Council District 2 only a short time before...
The candidates sit at table with name tags in front.

Seattle Mayoral Hopefuls Sound Off on Transportation, Housing

At a mobility and housing forum Wednesday, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell faced off with six challengers on a crowded primary election ballot. Here are the key takeaways.

Council Committee Rejects Bid to Add Red Tape to Light-Rail Permitting

Rather than jumping through new hoops to submit permit applications, Sound Transit will instead simply need to submit a report laying out the public outreach it conducted. The change should allow the original intent of the bill to streamline permitting to be maintained.
A red RapidRide bus on the Seattle waterfront

King County Floats Sales Tax Bump to Fund Metro, Roads

The proposal for a 0.1% sale tax hike comes in response to structural issues with King County's budget, and would generate around $100 million annually. Half would fund maintenance on unincorporated roads, and the other half is likely to go to safety upgrades at Metro.

Moore Steps Down, Seattle Council to Appoint Replacement to 16-Month Term

District 5 Councilmember Cathy Moore's announced her resignation today, effective July 7. Moore's departure will queue up a 16-month term for the appointee the Council selects. In November 2026, D5 voters will elect a councilmember to a one-year term.

Former Seattle Police Chief Diaz Sues City, Harrell for Retaliation

Last week, former Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz filed a lawsuit against the City and Mayor Bruce Harrell, alleging wrongful termination, retaliation, and wage theft. Beyond the monetary cost, the suit could be yet another political headwind for a mayor facing a tough reelection fight.
Police hold nightsticks in full riot gear behind a metal fence as protesters march by.

Op-Ed: Seattle Police Officers Guild is the Problem

The Seattle Police Officers Guild has continually sabotaged reform after reform. We can no longer allow SPOG leadership to remain an obstacle to accountable, constitutional policing. Seattle City Attorney candidate Nathan Rouse lays out what the office can do to help.

Op-Ed: Democrats Acted Irresponsibly, Failed to Trump-Proof Washington State in 2025 Session

Governor Bob Ferguson blocked efforts to tax the rich, pushing Democrats to implement austerity cuts that included raising the cost of child care and cutting early learning. A weakened social safety net makes the state less prepared to weather further Trump chaos.