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Seattle Mayor

Op-Ed: Will Ethics Commission Hold Harrell Accountable for Campaigning with Public Resources?

Facing a tough election battle, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell has been ramping up his pace of press events and social media posts. A former McGinn staffer shares how ethics officials warned McGinn's office against such activity, which could constitute a misuse of public resources for campaign purposes.
Harrell stands at a lectern under a white tent with Bryant Manor apartment building in the background.

Harrell Announces Reparations Fund, Ramps Up Attacks on Wilson

On Wednesday, Mayor Bruce Harrell rolled out a proposal for an $80 million “anti-gentrification and reparations fund,” and trumpeted $350 million in housing investments he aims to make in 2026. He also ramped up attacks on challenger Katie Wilson and other political opponents, saying "how dare anyone question the compassion of this administration toward people who are underrepresented."

Harrell Stumps for West Seattle, Ballard Light Rail, Facing Financial Headwinds

A press event in Ballard Tuesday was intended to bolster support for getting Seattle's next two light rail lines across the finish line. But rhetoric won't change the dynamics on the Sound Transit board, which feature suburban leaders just as dug in to prioritize the spine from Tacoma to Everett.

Urbanist-Backed Katie Wilson Opens Up Nearly 10 Point Lead over Harrell

Friday's ballot count was very friendly to Seattle progressives, with mayoral challenger Katie Wilson exceeding the 50% mark with the boost. The election dynamics favor a progressive wave. Here's why.

Stoked for ‘Hot Bike Summer’? Thank a Former Mayor and Council

Five major bike safety projects are all opening within a few months of each other, filling in critical gaps in Seattle's network. But most of the credit for ensuring that Hot Bike Summer happened in the first place goes to previous city leaders.
Wilson stands in front of a lectern with her yellow campaign sign with rainbow streamers behind her.

Katie Wilson Leads Bruce Harrell in Early Primary Election Results

Urbanist-endorsed progressive challenger Katie Wilson is off to a fast start in her bid to unseat Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, leading by nearly 1,300 votes on primary election night. Urbanist-endorsed Seattle City Council candidates Dionne Foster, Alexis Mercedes, and Eddie Lin have also taken commanding leads.
Mayor Bruce Harrell stands at a lectern flanked by Police Chief Shon Barnes and Councilmember Bob Kettle, who chairs the Public Safety Committee. A projection screen displays surveillance footage.

Harrell Pushes to Expand Recently Passed Surveillance Camera Pilot Program

Mayor Bruce Harrell is proposing to expand his three-month-old surveillance pilot program by installing more police cameras and funneling data from hundreds of traffic management cameras into the Seattle Police Department’s real-time crime center. The move has draw criticism from civil liberties groups.
Wilson stands at a lectern speaking and a dozen supporters stand behind her holding yellow Wilson for Mayor signs on the City Hall Plaza.

Poll Shows Harrell Is Vulnerable, Wilson Rolls Out Labor Support

Northwest Progressive Institute has released a new poll showing razor close races for Seattle Mayor and City Attorney. Incumbents Bruce Harrell and Ann Davison are both well below the 50% mark, pointing to vulnerability. Meanwhile, progressive mayoral challenger Katie Wilson is rolling out big endorsements.