VOTERS’ PAMPHLET
Washington State Elections & Benton County
General Election November 3
2026 Official Publication
Ballots mailed out by October 16 1(800) 448-4881 | sos.wa.gov/elections
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A message from Secretary of State Steve Hobbs I’m honored to present the 2026 General Election Voters’ Pamphlet on behalf of the Office of the Secretary of State. This guide provides information about the candidates and measures on your ballot. It will help you find the information you need to make decisions and cast your vote. It’s more important than ever to show up and vote for your communities. I encourage you to verify your voter registration is up to date at VoteWA.gov and to continue seeking out accurate sources of election information. My office remains committed to ensuring elections remain safe, secure, and accessible. Protecting voters’ rights is a priority for my office and county elections offices statewide. Voting is a meaningful act with real-world impacts on your communities. I urge all Washington voters to exercise their right to vote and support democracy this election. Sincerely,
Steve Hobbs Secretary of State
Use a Ballot Drop Box Ballots in a drop box by 8 p.m. on November 3, Election Day, are guaranteed on time! Find locations and track your ballot at VoteWA.gov. If you need to return your ballot by mail, we recommend that you vote and return it more than a week before Election Day.
@secstatewa
@WASecretaryofState @WashingtonStateElections
@secstatewa @WAStateElections
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Table of Contents | November 3, 2026 General Election Voting Assistance.................................................... 4 How do I register to vote in Washington?............... 5 How do I vote and return my ballot?....................... 6 Budgeting for Washington’s Future........................ 7 Measures Initiative Measure No. IP26-645............................. 8 Initiative Measure No. IL26-001.............................15 Initiative Measure No. IL26-638............................ 20 Candidates U.S. Representative.............................................. 23 State Legislative Offices........................................ 26 State Judicial Offices............................................ 37 Benton County Local Voters’ Pamphlet..........45 More Information . 2 Complete Text of Measures.................................. 7 Contact Your County Elections Office.................. 79
Deadlines
2026
Ballots mailed to voters by: October 16 Register by mail, received by: October 26 Register online by: October 26 Register in person by: November 3, 8 p.m. Election Day: November 3
Voter tip: Remember to sign and date your ballot return envelope. Your signature is important, and we need it to accept your ballot.
Political parties Washington State Democrats PO Box 4027 Seattle, WA 98194 (206) 583-0664 info@wa-democrats.org www.wadems.org
Washington State Republican Party 11911 NE 1st St Suite 201 Bellevue, WA 98005 (425) 900-3379 info@wagop.org wagop.org
Candidates submitted their information for this pamphlet prior to printing. For the most current information, sign in to VoteWA.gov.
Who donates to campaigns? View information on financial contributors for federal candidates: Federal Election Commission www.fec.gov Toll Free 1 (800) 424-9530 View financial contributors for state and local candidates and measures: Public Disclosure Commission pdc@pdc.wa.gov www.pdc.wa.gov Toll Free 1 (877) 601-2828
VoteWA.gov is your self-service resource. • Register to vote • Update your address • Sign up for text notifications — all online.
Voting Assistance
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Student Engagement Hubs
Are accessible voting options available?
Audio voters’ pamphlet available at www.sos.wa.gov/elections. No internet access? To receive a copy on a USB drive, call 1 (800) 448-4881. Contact a county elections office to find an accessible voting unit near you.
Public universities offer Student Engagement Hubs to ensure that students never miss an election just because they’re away from home. For dates, hours, and locations, contact student leadership at: • CWU Ellensburg • EWU Cheney • TESC Olympia • UW Bothell • UW Seattle • UW Tacoma • WSU Pullman • WSU Tri-Cities • WSU Vancouver • WWU Bellingham
Are language services available? Los votantes del estado de Washington pueden acceder a un folleto electoral para las elecciones generales y a un formulario de inscripción electoral en español en Internet en sos.wa.gov/elections. Ingrese a VoteWA.gov para consultar su guía electoral personalizada en Internet o para inscribirse y actualizar su información electoral. Los votantes de los condados de Yakima, Franklin y Adams reciben materiales electorales bilingües. Los votantes del condado de King pueden solicitar sus materiales de votación en español.
華盛頓州的選民可以由網上取 得中文版普選選民手冊以及選 民登記表,網址為 sos.wa.gov/elections。 請瀏覽VoteWA.gov以查看您 的個人化網上選民指南,或登記 及更新您的選民資料。 金郡的選民可以索求中文版投 票資料。
如欲索取中文選民手冊印刷本 或選民登記表,請致電 1 (800) 448-4881。
Para solicitar una edición impresa del folleto electoral o de un formulario de inscripción electoral en español, llame al
1 (800) 448-4881. The federal Voting Rights Act requires translated elections materials.
Cử tri tại tiểu bang Washington có thể truy cập trực tuyến Sách Hướng dẫn Cử tri cho cuộc Tổng tuyển cử và mẫu đơn đăng ký cử tri bằng Tiếng Việt tại địa chỉ
sos.wa.gov/elections.
Truy cập VoteWA.gov để xem trực tuyến hướng dẫn dành cho cử tri được cá nhân hóa của quý vị hoặc đăng ký và cập nhật thông tin cử tri của quý vị. Cử tri tại Quận King có thể yêu cầu tài liệu bỏ phiếu đã được dịch sang Tiếng Việt. Để yêu cầu bản in của sách hướng dẫn cử tri hoặc mẫu đơn đăng ký cử tri bằng Tiếng Việt, xin quý vị vui lòng gọi số
1 (800) 448-4881.
How do I register to vote in Washington?
How do I register to vote?
Registration deadlines
Online: Register at VoteWA.gov. By mail: Request a paper form be mailed to you or print your own at sos.wa.gov/elections.
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No internet access? Call 1 (800) 448-4881. In person: Visit a county elections office (listed at the end of this pamphlet).
By mail or online: Your application must be received no later than October 26. In person: Visit a local voting center no later than 8 p.m. on November 3.
Check your registration info at VoteWA.gov.
Qualifications
What if I’m not 18 yet?
To vote, you must be:
Sign up if you are at least 16 years old!
• at least 18 years old,
Sign up at VoteWA.gov and you’ll receive a ballot in the mail when it’s time to vote.
• a U.S. citizen, • a resident of Washington, and • not currently under total confinement in
prison for a felony.
Past felony conviction? Washington now restores voting rights to citizens with felony convictions immediately upon release from prison. Register to vote today at VoteWA.gov.
Make sure to have your Washington state license, permit, ID, or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Moved? Update your voting address Contact a county elections office to request a ballot at your new address. By October 26: Have your application received by mail or updated online. Or By November 3: Visit a local voting center in person.
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How do I vote and return my ballot?
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Ballots are mailed out by October 16 to all registered voters — no need to request one. If you need a replacement ballot, contact a county elections office listed at the end of this pamphlet.
Return your ballot to an official ballot drop box or visit a voting center. Drop boxes are open 24 hours, 7 days a week until 8 p.m. on November 3. Find locations at VoteWA.gov.
Check the status of your ballot on VoteWA.gov to see if it has been received by your county elections office.
Election staff will contact you before your ballot is processed if: • Your signature is missing • Your signature doesn’t match your voter registration record
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Mark your ballot and sign your return envelope. We need your signature to accept your ballot. You are not required to vote every race on your ballot.
If you need to return your ballot by mail, vote and return as soon as you receive it. Mail your ballot more than a week before Election Day.
View election results online After 8 p.m. on election night, results from each county are posted at results.votewa.gov. Results are updated as counties report and are unofficial until certification.
Budgeting for Washington’s Future
The Washington State Legislature established a webpage with interactive budget information created by the Legislative Evaluation and Accountability Program (LEAP) Committee and the Office of Financial Management (OFM).
WA Budget Summary: https://fiscal.wa.gov/budgetsummary Legislative Information Center: 1 (800) 562-6000
How can you access this webpage? • Type the URL into your browser • Scan the QR code with your smartphone or tablet • Call the Legislative Information Center
What’s in the budget? Operating Budget: pays for day-to-day operations of state agencies, colleges and universities, and public schools (including federal funds and dedicated funds). Transportation Budget: pays for transportation activities, such as designing and maintaining roads and public transit. Capital Budget: pays for acquiring and maintaining state buildings, public schools, higher education facilities, public lands, parks, and other assets.
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Initiatives and Referenda
Initiatives and referenda are used by the people to create state laws. Initiative
Referendum
Any registered voter may propose an initiative to create a new state law or change an existing law.
Referendum Bills are proposed laws the Legislature has referred to voters.
Initiatives to the People are proposed laws submitted directly to voters.
Referendum Measures are laws recently passed by the Legislature that voters have petitioned to be referred to the ballot.
Initiatives to the Legislature are proposed laws submitted to the Legislature.
Any registered voter may petition that a law passed by the Legislature be referred to voters before taking effect.
Before an Initiative to the People or an Initiative to the Legislature can appear on the ballot, the sponsor must collect...
Before a Referendum Measure can appear on the ballot, the sponsor must collect...
308,911
154,455
registered voters’ signatures
registered voters’ signatures
8% of all votes in the last Governor’s race
4% of all votes in the last Governor’s race
Initiatives and referenda
become law with more than 50% of the vote.
Initiative Measure IP26-645
Initiative Measure No. IP26-645 concerns state and local taxes.
Initiative Measure
IP26-645
This measure would repeal a 9.9% tax on annual individual income over $1,000,000; prohibit taxes measured by individual income and taxes on individual income or the receipt of individual income; and define “income.” This measure would decrease funding for public K-12 education, higher education (including universities and community colleges), and human services (primarily healthcare). Should this measure be enacted into law? [ ] Yes [ ] No Explanatory Statement . . . . . . . . 10 Fiscal Impact Statement . . . . . . . 10 Arguments For and Against . . . . . . 14
A new method of numbering initiatives and referenda is in effect (WAC 434-379-0071).
The Secretary of State is not responsible for the content of statements or arguments (WAC 434-381-180).
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Initiative Measure IP26-645
Explanatory Statement Written by the Office of the Attorney General
The Law As It Presently Exists The State of Washington imposes various taxes to raise revenue to fund state government. Those taxes include the retail sales tax, the business and occupation tax, the state property tax, the capital gains tax, and other state taxes. In 2026, the Legislature passed a law imposing a 9.9 percent tax on an individual’s receipt of income over $1,000,000, beginning in calendar year 2028. Beginning in 2029, the $1,000,000 standard deduction is increased to account for inflation. The amount of income subject to tax is based on adjusted gross income reported on federal income tax returns, with some modifications. In addition to the $1,000,000 standard deduction, taxpayers may deduct up to $100,000 for charitable contributions. The $1,000,000 standard deduction and the possible $100,000 deduction for charitable contributions apply per household, so a married couple or domestic partnership shares a single $1,000,000 deduction and up to $100,000 for charitable contributions. Additional deductions are available for certain specific situations. Certain expenses related to pass-through entities that are deducted for federal tax purposes are added to the amount subject to Washington’s tax. The law also allows certain tax credits, which lower the amount of taxes due. These credits are available for income tax paid to another state; amounts paid under Washington’s capital gains tax; and taxes owed for business and occupation taxes or public utility taxes paid on the same income subject to this tax. Nonresidents of Washington are only subject to this tax based on income derived from sources within Washington. Income that they earn from other sources is not counted. Five percent of the money collected from this tax is deposited into an account that can only be used for childcare and early learning purposes. The remaining 95 percent of money collected from the tax and any interest and penalties is deposited into the state’s general fund. The 2026 law enacting the tax on income above $1,000,000 also enacted or expanded various tax exemptions, deductions and credits. First, it eliminated sales tax on the sale of diapers, over-the-counter drugs, grooming and hygiene products, and certain software, digital services, data processing, and live presentations. Second, it reduced business and occupation taxes by increasing a small-business tax credit, increasing the
minimum threshold for businesses to file taxes, and removing a surcharge on high grossing businesses for health care providers, hospitals, prescription drug resellers, and wholesale food sales. Third, it expanded eligibility for the Working Families Tax Credit, which provides a tax refund for qualifying low-income individuals.
The Effect of the Proposed Measure if Approved If approved, the proposed measure would repeal the annual tax on individual income over $1,000,000. This would also eliminate the funding collected from the tax that would go to the general fund (which funds public K-12 education, higher education such as universities and community colleges, health care, and other human services) and childcare and early learning. The nonincome tax credits, exemptions, and deductions that accompanied this tax would not be repealed and would remain in place. The measure would also prohibit state and local governments from imposing taxes on individual income or the receipt of individual income and taxes measured by an individual’s income. The only tax explicitly listed and repealed by the measure is the tax on income over $1,000,000. The measure would also provide definitions for some terms used in the measure. It would define “income” for purposes of excise taxes as “any gain or benefit measured in money derived from an individual’s capital, labor, property, or other source.” It would define “individual” for purposes of excise taxes as “a natural person.”
Fiscal Impact Statement Written by the Office of Financial Management
For more information visit www.ofm.wa.gov/ballot
Summary If approved by voters, Initiative Measure No. IP26-645 will result in an estimated loss to state revenue of $11.4 billion over state fiscal years 2027-2031. This would reduce funding to the state general fund to support core government services, particularly public K-12 education, higher education (including universities and community colleges), and human services (primarily healthcare). The Legislature expressed an intent to use the additional revenue created by Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 6346 (2026) (ESSB 6346) towards providing free school meals, transferring funds for childcare and early learning, and transferring funds to local governments to mitigate sales tax loss.
Initiative Measure IP26-645 General assumptions A state tax equal to 9.9 percent on Washington taxable income greater than $1,000,000 per individual became law following the 2026 legislative session due to ESSB 6346 - Establishing a tax on millionaires. If approved, the initiative will repeal the tax such that it will no longer go into effect on January 1, 2028, and the state will no longer impose this tax. • The effective date of the initiative is December 3, 2026. • The provisions of the initiative apply prospectively, not retroactively. • The Department of Revenue (DOR) ceases all implementation activities on the effective date, including those activities that are in progress.
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• The Economic and Revenue Forecast Council (ERFC) June 2026 tax revenue forecast. • The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) publication 6149 calendar year projections by state for 2024. • IRS individual income tax returns for tax year 2022. • The National Library of Medicine publication, “US Taxation of Gambling Winnings and Incentives to Bet.” The following additional assumptions are made for calculation purposes: • The first impacted year of tax collections is state fiscal year 2029. • The only tax impacted is the tax described in ESSB 6346 from the 2026 Legislative Session.
• Estimates use the state’s fiscal year (SFY) of July 1 through June 30. State fiscal year 2027 is July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027.
• There are no estimated tax payments required in tax year 2028 (calendar year 2028), therefore the first payments are due from taxpayers in April 2029.
• Calendar year refers to January 1 to December 31.
• Approximately 89 percent of total tax payments will occur in April 2029 and the remaining 11 percent of payments will occur in October 2029, due to the six-month extension deadline.
• RCW 29A.72.025 regarding fiscal impact statements indicates any such statement “must describe any projected increase or decrease in revenues, costs, expenditures, or indebtedness that the state or local governments will experience if the ballot measure were approved by state voters.” As such, impacts that might occur due to actions of a future Legislature or those only expressed through legislative intent, are not included.
Revenue Local Revenue The initiative will not impact local revenue.
State Revenue The initiative is estimated to result in revenue loss of $11,432,414,000 over five fiscal years from the state general fund, federal general fund, and fair start for kids account. The general fund is the principal state fund supporting the operation of the state. The fair start for kids account is used only for childcare and early learning purposes.
State Revenue Assumptions State General Fund Revenue estimates are based on several available data sources including: • Department of Revenue (DOR) excise data.
• The first estimated tax payments, for the January 2029 to June 2029 period, are due July 1, 2029. • Based on information from the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP), it is assumed that there is a reduced IRS enforcement budget. Based on the ITEP analysis, a 4.71 percent downward adjustment is applied to taxpayers’ Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) prior to estimating tax collections. • Due to assumed taxpayer behavior, an assumption about taxpayer compliance is applied to revenue estimates. It is assumed that 90 percent of tax revenue will be collected for tax year 2028 (calendar year 2028) and 95 percent of tax revenue will be collected for tax year 2029 (calendar year 2029) and thereafter.
Federal General Fund ESSB 6346 made state income tax refunds subject to child support collection action by the Department of Social and Health Services. To implement this provision, the Department of Social and Health Services anticipates receipt of federal funding for information technology updates, policy updates, and staff training. This federal revenue would be eliminated if the initiative was approved.
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Initiative Measure IP26-645
Fair Start for Kids Account
Office of the Attorney General
ESSB 6346 directed the Office of the State Treasurer to deposit five percent of the tax revenue collected to the fair start for kids account beginning July 1, 2029, and each July 1st thereafter. The repeal of the tax means that this transfer will no longer occur. The total amount that will no longer be transferred to the fair start for kids account is $377,000,000, including $155,400,000 in state fiscal year 2030 and $221,600,000 in state fiscal year 2031.
The Office of the Attorney General (AGO) will have no increase or decrease in costs each state fiscal year from 2027 through 2031. The anticipated change in the amount of legal services workload is minimal. The AGO did not receive funding specific to implementing ESSB 6346.
State Revenue Impacts Table 1. Revenue loss, by account (See Table 1 on page 13.)
State Government Expenditures State Agency Implementation Cost Assumptions State agency savings are estimated to be a net total of $150,471,700 over five state fiscal years as a result of the initiative. Savings by agency are:
Department of Social and Health Services In state fiscal year 2027, the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) will save $139,000 in state funds and $279,000 in federal funds. In state fiscal year 2028, DSHS will save $74,000 in state funds and $143,000 in federal funds. This funding was provided for information technology updates, policy updates, and staff training for the agency to implement child support collections on state tax refunds.
Office of the State Treasurer
Table 2. Expenditures, by agency (state general fund and federal general fund) (See Table 2 on page 13.)
The Office of the State Treasurer (OST) will have no increase or decrease in costs in state fiscal years 2030 and 2031 to administer the transfer to the fair start for kids account. The OST did not receive funding specific to implement ESSB 6346.
Department of Revenue
Department of Corrections
The Department will save a net of $149,844,700 over the five fiscal years between 2027 and 2031. It is assumed that the existing state general fund appropriation for administering the tax will end as of June 30, 2027. Impacts to expenditures and subsequent savings are estimated to occur on or after January 1, 2027. Currently, the Department has received a total appropriation of $10,196,000 for state fiscal year 2027. The total appropriation for the period from January 2027 to June 2027 is $5,408,400. Unspent amounts from the general fund for state fiscal year 2027 are currently unknown due to potential contracts and vendor commitments. For state fiscal years 2028, 2029, 2030, and 2031 it is assumed that DOR would receive funding from the legislature in accordance with the fiscal note for parts I – VIII of ESSB 6346 – Establishing a tax on millionaires. Savings are assumed for tax administration duties for approximately 30,000 taxpayers that will no longer be required. These savings by state fiscal year are as follows: • Savings of $53,676,000 for state fiscal year 2028. • Savings of $35,696,900 for state fiscal year 2029. • Savings of $30,544,400 for state fiscal year 2030. • Savings of $29,927,400 for state fiscal year 2031.
The Department of Corrections will have indeterminate savings resulting from the elimination of the class C felony for evading this tax.
Department of Children, Youth, and Families The Department of Children, Youth, and Families will have indeterminate savings resulting from the elimination of the class C felony for evading this tax. It is unclear if these criminal offenses are limited to adult crimes.
Initiative Measure IP26-645
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Table 1. Revenue loss, by account Account State General Fund
SFY 2027
SFY 2028
SFY 2029
SFY 2030
SFY 2031
$0
$0
($3,108,000,000)
($4,276,600,000)
($3,670,400,000)
Fair Start for Kids Account Federal General Fund
$0
$0
$0
($155,400,000)
($221,600,000)
($271,000)
($143,000)
$0
$0
$0
Total
($271,000)
($143,000)
($3,108,000,000)
($4,432,000,000)
($3,892,000,000)
Table 2. Expenditures, by agency (state general fund and federal general fund) Account Department of Revenue Office of the Attorney General Department of Social and Health Services – State General Fund Department of Social and Health Services – Federal General Fund Office of the State Treasurer Department of Corrections Department of Children, Youth, and Families State General Fund Total All Funds Total
SFY 2027
SFY 2028
SFY 2029
SFY 2030
SFY 2031
Unknown
($53,676,000)
($35,696,900)
($30,544,400)
($29,927,400)
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
($139,000)
($74,000)
$0
$0
$0
($271,000)
($143,000)
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
Indeterminate
Indeterminate
Indeterminate
Indeterminate
Indeterminate
Indeterminate
Indeterminate
Indeterminate
Indeterminate
Indeterminate
($139,000) ($53,750,000) ($410,000) ($53,893,000)
($35,696,900) ($35,696,900)
($30,544,400) ($30,544,400)
($29,927,400) ($29,927,400)
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Initiative Measure IP26-645
Argument for
Argument against
Vote Yes: Repeal the Income Tax, Make Olympia Keep Its Word Trust isn’t built by passing another tax, it’s earned by keeping promises. Over the last 90 years, Washingtonians have rejected an income tax ten times because they knew it would threaten economic growth, discourage investment, and reach beyond the people originally targeted. This year, the Legislature enacted a new income tax anyway. I-645 restores your right to decide.
Washington has one of the nation’s most upside-down tax systems, where working and middle class families pay a far higher tax rate than the wealthiest. I-645 would make that worse. I-645 is fiscally irresponsible, slashing billions in funding for education and healthcare, increasing taxes on 460,000 hard-working families, and jeopardizing tax cuts for thousands of small businesses.
Taxes Always Expand Supporters insist the tax is narrow, applying only to income above $1 million. But lawmakers rejected opportunities to permanently limit its reach, giving Olympia the ability to expand the income tax to everyone. Before asking taxpayers for more, they should demonstrate they can keep the commitments they’ve already made. A History of Broken Promises 80 times in the last five years Olympia has moved money from dedicated accounts to the general fund. They’ve taken money from state healthcare, flood control, pipeline safety, school employees’ insurance, and others to backfill the general fund. The capital gains tax was promised to support early learning and childcare, yet those commitments were delayed, reduced, or cancelled. First responders spent careers relying on promises about their retirements, only to watch the legislature raid their pensions to plug holes in the general fund. Trust erodes when dedicated funding doesn’t produce the results people were promised.
Vote No: Stop a Tax Break for the Wealthiest Hedge fund mogul Brian Heywood has spent millions backing I-645 because he wants a tax cut for the top 1%, while sticking working and middle class families and small businesses with higher costs. I-645 could mean higher taxes for thousands of small businesses, force families to pay sales tax for basic household items like diapers, and raise taxes for 460,000 Washington families – just so those making over a million dollars in a year get a tax break. Vote No: Stop Cuts to Schools, Healthcare, and Childcare This measure cuts funding for K-12 public schools, healthcare, childcare, and other important public services by $13 billion over four years. That means larger class sizes, higher costs for healthcare and childcare, and the elimination of free school lunches for many children. Vote No: Stop Higher Costs for Working Families I-645 gives the wealthiest a big break while the rest of us face higher healthcare and childcare costs and cuts to public schools and higher education. Join Washington nurses, teachers, and small business owners. Vote No on I-645.
Voting Yes repeals the new income tax before it begins, preserves the Working Families Tax Credit, paid family leave, and small-business tax relief. Voters have the final say.
Rebuttal of argument against
Rebuttal of argument for
The No campaign's claims are false. I-645 repeals the income tax. Without I-645, Olympia can expand the income tax to reach into your paycheck with the simple stroke of a pen. No public vote and no permission required, any time they want. This was never about schools or diapers, that's a scare tactic. Washington has record revenues. An income tax on anyone will become an income tax on everyone. Vote Yes.
The Millionaires Tax only applies to those making above one million dollars per year. Any attempt to expand it to those of us making under a million would be decided on the ballot voters always have the final say. I-645 blows a $13 billion hole in the budget - don’t believe lies that we can keep tax cuts for working families and small businesses but eliminate the tax on the wealthy few that pays for them.
Written by
Written by
Chris Gildon, State Senator, Republican, Puyallup; Jesse Proudman, Lifelong Washingtonian and Three-Time Entrepreneur; Patti Mann, Retired Firefighter/Paramedic, Seattle Fire Department; Viet Nguyen, Small Business Owner, Independent, Seattle; Semmelle Abraham, Small Business Owner; Julie H. Olds, Grandmother and Small Business Owner
Janie White, President, Washington Education Association; Matt Hipp, Small Business Owner, Halcyon Brewing Company; Rosa Potts, Registered Nurse, Vancouver; April Sims, President, Washington State Labor Council; Thom Garrard, Retired classroom teacher, Edmonds School Board Member; Lindsay Johnson, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Greater Washington, Yakima
Contact: (360) 259-9771; chris@chrisgildon.com
Contact: (360) 545-3362; info@no645.com; https://no645.com/
Initiative Measure IL26-001
Initiative Measure
IL26-001
Initiative Measure No. IL26-001 concerns parental rights relating to their children in public school. This measure would repeal amendments to a statute listing certain rights of parents and guardians of public-school children and re-enact the law as it was originally enacted by Initiative to the Legislature 2081. Should this measure be enacted into law? [ ] Yes [ ] No
Explanatory Statement . . . . . . . . 16 Fiscal Impact Statement . . . . . . . 18 Arguments For and Against . . . . . . 19
A new method of numbering initiatives and referenda is in effect (WAC 434-379-0071).
The Secretary of State is not responsible for the content of statements or arguments (WAC 434-381-180).
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Initiative Measure IL26-001
Explanatory Statement Written by the Office of the Attorney General
The Law as It Presently Exists In 2024, the Legislature passed Initiative to the Legislature 2081, which listed certain rights of parents and guardians of public-school children. Many of those rights were already set forth elsewhere in state or federal law. In 2025, the Legislature made several changes to this list of parental and guardian rights, which again restated many rights that already existed elsewhere in state and federal law. Currently, the list of parent and guardian rights is set forth in statute at RCW 28A.605.005 and provides: Access to Educational Materials and Records: Parents and legal guardians have the right to access their child’s classroom and school-sponsored activities to observe and to examine textbooks, curriculum, and supplemental materials used in their child’s classroom in accordance with policies and procedures. Parents and legal guardians have the right to review their child’s education records by submitting a written request. Records must be provided within a reasonable period of time not to exceed 45 days. Education records are defined as official records, files, and data directly related to a student and maintained by the public school, including records in a child’s cumulative folder, records of attendance and academic work completed, records of achievement and evaluative tests, disciplinary status, test protocols, and individualized education programs. Education records do not include records that are kept in the sole possession of the maker, are used only as a personal memory aid, and are not accessible or revealed to any other person except a temporary substitute for the maker of the record. Schools may charge a reasonable fee for copying education records for parents and guardians so long as the fee does not prevent a parent or guardian from accessing the records. Parents and guardians are not required to appear in person to request education records, provided the public school can ascertain the identity of the requestor. Access and disclosure of health care information is governed by state health-care disclosure laws. Student Performance and Attendance: Parents and legal guardians have the right to be informed of their child’s academic performance, including the child’s performance on state learning standards tests and assessments. A parent or legal guardian has the right to request an in-person meeting with the child’s classroom teacher and principal to discuss resources or strategies to support and encourage the child’s academic improvement. Parents and legal guardians also have the right to be notified of unexcused absences and to engage in efforts to eliminate or reduce the child’s absences in accordance with other state law.
Criminal Action and Law Enforcement: Parents and legal guardians have the right to receive immediate notification when a criminal action is alleged to have been committed against their child on school property during the school day or during a school sponsored activity or when their child has been detained based on probable cause of involvement in criminal activity on school property during the school day. Parents and legal guardians also have the right to receive immediate notification if their child is subject to custodial interrogation at the school during the school day, except in cases where the parent or legal guardian has been accused of abuse or neglect against the child being questioned. Public schools must also give notice to parents and guardians upon receipt of reports that their child is the alleged victim of physical or sexual abuse, misconduct, or assault by a school employee or contractor. Removal from Campus: Parents and legal guardians have the right for their child not to be removed from school grounds or buildings during school hours without the authorization of a parent or legal guardian according to other provisions of state law. Notice to parents provided by youth shelters, law enforcement agencies, and the Department of Children, Youth, and Families when they provide shelter to or take custody of children are governed by other laws. Non-Discrimination: Parents and legal guardians have a right to have their child receive a public education in a setting that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying: Parents and guardians have the right to file a complaint on behalf of their child relating to harassment, intimidation, and bullying, as set forth in other state law. Notification and Opt Out Rights: Parents and legal guardians have the right to receive written notice and to opt their children out of surveys, analyses, or evaluations that reveal information concerning categories listed in federal opt-out laws, including political affiliation or beliefs; mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family; sex behavior and attitudes; illegal, anti-social, self-
Initiative Measure IL26-001 incriminating, or demeaning behavior; critical appraisals of people with close relationships to the child or the child’s family; religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the child or the child’s family; and income. Parents and legal guardians also have the right to opt their child out of comprehensive sexual education as required by other state law. Enrollment Rights: Parents and legal guardians have a right to have their child qualify for enrollment in a school district if they are transferred to, or pending transfer to, a military installation within the state. Parents and legal guardians have a right to have their child qualify without a legal residence for enrollment in a school district. Parents and legal guardians also have the right to request enrollment for their child in a nonresident school district. Parents and legal guardians have a right to request enrollment for their child in a charter school. Language Access Rights: Parents and legal guardians have a right to receive annual notice of the public school’s language access policies and services and the parents’ right to free language access services. Parents and legal guardians also have a right to have their child whose primary language is not English to access supplemental instruction and services through a transitional bilingual instruction program. Special Education Rights: Parents and legal guardians have the right to request special education programs and assistance for their child if their child is eligible for, but not receiving, special education services, including due to illness. Parents and legal guardians also have the right to request an appeal to the superintendent of public instruction if their child with disabilities has been denied the opportunity of a special education program by a school district or public school, and to access special education due process hearings regarding their child. School Calendar: Parents and legal guardians have a right to receive the annual school calendar no later than 30 days prior to the beginning of the school year, and to be notified of any revisions to the calendar. The calendar must be posted to the school’s website and must include student attendance days and events that require parent or student attendance outside of normal school days or hours. Required Fees: Parents and legal guardians have a right to be informed of required fees and their purpose and use, and how economic hardships may be addressed. Dress Code or Uniform: Parents and legal guardians have a right to be informed of a description of any required dress code or uniform. Private Right of Action: Nothing in the statute setting
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forth rights of parents and legal guardians creates a private right of action.
The Effect of the Proposed Measure if Approved If approved, the proposed measure would undo all of the changes made by the 2025 Legislature, and re-institute the list of rights as enacted in 2024 by Initiative to the Legislature 2081. Specifically, the proposal would modify current law in the following ways: Access to Educational Materials and Records: Parents and legal guardians would have a right to examine the textbooks, curriculum, and supplemental material used in their child’s classroom. The limitation that parental and guardian access is according to the provisions of other law and in conformity with school policies would be removed. With respect to records, schools would be prohibited from requiring that parents appear in person to make a records request. The exception for cases where the school could not verify the identity of the parent or guardian would be eliminated. Schools would be prohibited from charging for electronic copies, and could charge a reasonable fee for copies of paper records. Records would have to be produced within ten business days instead of the 45 days allowed by current law. The kinds of records that schools would be required to produce would be broadened to include any studentspecific files, documents, or other materials that are maintained by the school. The exception for documents kept in the sole possession of the maker would be eliminated. The provision specifying that health care records are controlled by separate laws about disclosure of health care records would be eliminated. Medical Services and Treatment: The measure would add that parents and legal guardians have a right to receive prior notification when medical services are being offered to their child (except emergency medical treatment), to receive notification when any medical service has been provided to their child that could result in financial impact to the parent or legal guardian, and to receive notification when the school has arranged for medical treatment that results in follow-up care beyond normal school hours. Criminal Action and Law Enforcement: The specification that parents and guardians are only entitled to notice from public schools when the crime or law enforcement engagement occurs on school property and during school hours would be removed. The right to receive immediate notification when a child is alleged to be the victim, target, or recipient of physical or sexual abuse, sexual misconduct, or assault by a school employee or contractor would be removed.
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Initiative Measure IL26-001
Removal from Campus: The provision specifying that parental and legal guardian notification by youth shelters, law enforcement, and the Department of Children, Youth, and Families is governed by other laws would be removed. Public schools would be required to notify parents if a child is taken or removed from a public school without parental permission, including to stay at a youth shelter. Non-Discrimination: The provision specifying that parents and legal guardians have a right to have their child receive an education in a setting that prohibits discrimination on a number of bases would be removed. The measure would instead state a right of parents and legal guardians to receive assurance that their child’s public school will not discriminate against their child based upon the sincerely held religious beliefs of the child’s family. Notification and Opt Out: Parents and legal guardians would continue to have the right from federal law to receive written notice and to opt their children out of surveys, analyses, or evaluations that reveal information concerning political affiliation or beliefs; mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family; sex behavior and attitudes; illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior; critical appraisals of people with close relationships to the child or the child’s family; religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the child or the child’s family; and income. The measure would add to the list of topics for which parents and legal guardians have the right to receive notice and opt-out the child’s sexual experiences or attractions, the child’s family beliefs, morality, or religion, or political affiliations; and any mental health or psychological problems of the child or a family member. The right to opt a child out of comprehensive sexual education would be rewritten to state a right to receive written notice and the option to opt a child out of instruction on topics associated with sexual activity in accordance with state law. Other Provisions Removed: The right of a parent or legal guardian to file a complaint on behalf of their child relating to harassment, intimidation, and bullying, as set forth in other state law, would be removed. The statement that nothing in the statute setting forth rights of parents and legal guardians creates a private right of action would be removed. The provisions regarding enrollment rights, language access rights, and special education rights would be removed. Calendar, Fees, and Dress Code: No changes would be made to the provisions regarding the school calendar, required fees, or the dress code or uniform.
Fiscal Impact Statement Written by the Office of Financial Management
For more information visit www.ofm.wa.gov/ballot
Summary If approved by voters, Initiative Measure No. IL26-001 would restore RCW 28A.605.005 as originally passed by the Legislature in the 2024 session. It would list certain rights of parents and guardians of public-school children, such as the right to review their child’s school records, receive notifications, and opt their child out of certain activities. It would repeal amendments made in the 2025 legislative session. The initiative would have no fiscal impact on the state. Local school districts may incur minor costs to update policies and procedures, but this fiscal impact is indeterminate.
General assumptions • The effective date of the initiative is December 3, 2026. • The provisions of the initiative apply prospectively, not retroactively.
Revenue The initiative would not impact state or local revenue.
Expenditures The initiative would have no fiscal impact on state government. Local school districts could incur minor costs to update policies and procedures, but this fiscal impact is indeterminate.
Initiative Measure IL26-001
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Argument for
Argument against
Vote Yes to Restore Parents’ Rights in Education These rights include access to their child’s instructional materials and student records, notice of medical services, opt-outs from certain activities and instruction, and immediate notification when law enforcement questions their child or their child is removed from campus without parental permission.
Vote No On Removing Commonsense Protections For Child Abuse Victims While most parents are loving, the sad reality is there were 117,000 reports of child abuse or neglect in WA in 2024 alone. This poorly written measure further endangers vulnerable child abuse victims by requiring schools to hand over sensitive information to parents under criminal investigation for raping, abusing or otherwise harming their own child. That’s why it’s opposed by law enforcement and the WA Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault.
Protecting Vulnerable Children School staff remain mandatory reporters of suspected child abuse or neglect. Privacy for vulnerable children remains paramount. But safeguards designed for children at risk should not become a default policy of withholding information from all parents. Support Families, Not Secrecy Parents must give permission for schools to administer medication, apply sunscreen, or take students on field trips. Yet current policies allow schools to withhold critical information when a child expresses a new gender identity at school. These policies may require staff to conceal this information from parents, even when doing so conflicts with their conscience or professional judgment. Opponents call sharing this information with parents “outing” even when significant changes to a minor’s school life may already be known to classmates, teachers, and staff. Deliberately excluding parents treats them as inherently unsafe without an individualized assessment. This undermines the vital parent-child relationship and denies families the opportunity to navigate consequential questions about health and wellbeing together. Restore Trust in Washington Schools Schools are essential partners in a child’s educational success, while parents are responsible for raising their children. Respecting these distinct roles is essential to restoring trust. Vote yes.
Rebuttal of argument against Don’t be misled. IL26-001 expressly states that schools “shall not be required to release” mental health counseling records when a parent is the target of a child abuse or neglect investigation; requires “immediate notification” if a criminal action is deemed committed against or by their child; and contains zero mandates placing students in danger. The measure preserves safeguards while ensuring parents receive consequential information about their children. Vote yes.
Written by Travis Reep, Public School Elementary Teacher, Elected
Union Representative; Alesha Perkins, Parent and Education Advocate, Independent Writer; Peter Rosenkranz, M.Ed., Superintendent, La Center School District; Tony Harris, Public School Science/STEM Teacher, Elected Union Representative; Amy Sousa, M.A. in Depth Psychology, Women’s Rights Advocate; Jess Grant, Member, Democrats for an Informed Approach to Gender Contact: YESonParentsRights@gmail.com
Vote No On Delaying Parental Notification When Children Are Crime Victims If a student is the victim of a serious crime at school, parents should not have to wait to find out. An unintended consequence of IL26-001 is ending Washington’s legal requirement that schools immediately notify parents when the crime is reported. Experts say delayed notification only adds to the child’s trauma and can prevent a child from getting immediate help and support from loved ones and professionals. Vote No On Worsening The Teen Mental Health And Homelessness Crisis School nurses and counselors say this measure, bankrolled by ultra-conservatives, discourages students facing domestic violence, sexual abuse, or bullying from seeking help from trusted teachers and school counselors, who would be required to release students’ confidential records. It also forces schools to knowingly put LGBTQ+ kids in increased danger of violence and homelessness by outing them to potentially abusive families.That’s why the WA State Nurses Association, doctors, and school counselors oppose this measure.
Rebuttal of argument for IL26-001, bankrolled by ultra-conservative interests, is so poorly written it would eliminate key existing parental rights. It will repeal current state laws that guarantee parents’ rights to immediate notification if their child is a victim of a crime at school. It ends commonsense protections for child abuse victims whose parents are accused of child abuse and rape. That’s why it’s opposed by the WA Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. Vote No.
Written by John Lovick, State Senator, Democrat, former Snohomish County Sheriff; Roshelle Cleland, Washington Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault; Justin Gill, APRN, President, Washington State Nurses Association; Karen Crowley, President, League of Women Voters of Washington; Courtney Normand, Washington State Director, Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates; Jaime FinemanMcKinney, Nationally Board Certified School Counselor, Fife Contact: NoHateInWAState.org/About-I-001; info@nohateinwastate.org
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Initiative Measure
Initiative Measure IL26-638
IL26-638
Initiative Measure No. IL26-638 concerns participation in athletics at K-12 schools. This measure would prohibit students it defines as “biologically male” from competing in certain school athletic activities intended for female students only. It would require verification of biological sex by students’ healthcare providers. Should this measure be enacted into law? [ ] Yes [ ] No
Explanatory Statement . . . . . . . . 21 Fiscal Impact Statement . . . . . . . 21 Arguments For and Against . . . . . . 22
A new method of numbering initiatives and referenda is in effect (WAC 434-379-0071).
The Secretary of State is not responsible for the content of statements or arguments (WAC 434-381-180).
Initiative Measure IL26-638
Explanatory Statement Written by the Office of the Attorney General
The Law as It Presently Exists In Washington, school districts may offer extracurricular sports opportunities for students. Those sports must be offered to all public school students without regard to sex, but public schools may provide separate athletic teams based on sex. The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction also creates regulations and guidelines to eliminate discrimination in sports for students, and these regulations prohibit discrimination based on sex and gender identity. Public and private K-12 schools in Washington may allow individual athletes and teams to compete against athletes and teams from other schools. For public schools, a school district’s board of directors is responsible for regulating these athletic activities but may delegate that responsibility to a nonprofit organization, such as the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA). A nonprofit organization that regulates interschool sports may not discriminate on the basis of sex and must have written rules and policies regarding student participation.
The Effect of the Proposed Measure if Approved If approved, this initiative would change participation rules for interschool sports. This initiative would, in its own language, prohibit “biologically male students from competing with and against female students” on sports teams or in individual events that are designated for female students only. This would generally prevent transgender girls from participating on girls’ sports teams. This prohibition would affect public K-12 schools and also private schools that participate in the WIAA or similar nonprofit organizations. Students who want to participate in interschool sports teams or individual events that are designated for female students only would have to provide a form that verifies the student’s “biological sex.” That form must be signed by the student’s personal health care provider. The verification would have to be based on the student’s reproductive anatomy, genetic makeup, or normal endogenously produced testosterone levels. Students would thus have to undergo some type of medical evaluation of their sex to participate in interschool sports designated for female students only.
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Fiscal Impact Statement Written by the Office of Financial Management
For more information visit www.ofm.wa.gov/ballot
Summary If approved by voters, Initiative Measure No. IL26-638 would prohibit students it defines as “biologically male” from competing in certain school athletic activities intended for female students only. It requires verification of biological sex by students’ healthcare providers. The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction would incur minor costs to update current guidance. Local school districts may also incur costs to revise existing policies, procedures, rules, and other requirements, but this fiscal impact is indeterminate.
General assumptions • The effective date of the initiative is December 3, 2026. • The provisions of the initiative apply prospectively, not retroactively. • The estimates use the state’s fiscal year (SFY) of July 1 through June 30. State fiscal year 2026 is July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.
Revenue The initiative would not impact state or local revenue.
Expenditures The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction would incur a one-time cost of approximately $21,000 in SFY 2026 to update existing guidelines to align with the initiative’s requirements. Local school districts would likely also incur costs to revise existing policies, procedures, rules, and other requirements, but this fiscal impact is indeterminate.
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Initiative Measure IL26-638
Argument for
Argument against
Vote yes to protect fairness in girls’ sports. Female athletes deserve fair opportunities to build confidence, develop skills, and pursue goals. Let’s protect those opportunities and affirm the hard-fought rights established through Title IX in 1972, which expanded athletic access for women by recognizing the necessity of the female category. Washington currently allows males to compete against girls, undermining opportunities generations before them fought to secure.
Vote No To Protect All Girls We all want fairness and safety in sports, but this poorly written measure would require girls as young as 8 to undergo intrusive medical sex certification as a new part of sports physicals. It bans parents from using birth certificates. Section 2 says doctors must subject girls to invasive examinations of their “reproductive organs,” or expensive genetic or hormone tests. These requirements apply to girls only, boys are exempt.
Approving IL26-638 would align Washington with world sports policies. Federal law, the Women’s Tennis Association, World Athletics, and the International Olympic Committee have all adopted policies to protect eligibility for the female category. In March 2026, the IOC president stated, “It is absolutely clear that it would not be fair for biological males to compete in the female category.”
Vote No Because It’s the Most Extreme Proposal of Its Kind In The U.S This initiative is bankrolled by an ultra-conservative megadonor to distract from rising costs, foster hate, and divide our communities. It’s playing politics with kids, and putting girls at risk.
Voting yes gives all students the opportunity to participate in interscholastic sports. Medical clearance is already required to participate safely. Students would compete in the category that aligns with their sex, verified during routine, medically necessary primary care recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. During a private, consented visit, a licensed medical professional would verify sex based on the student’s birth records, medical history and/or a standard, non-invasive physical examination. Washington can respect every student while recognizing that sex-based athletic categories are necessary. A female athlete should not lose a starting position, medal, championship, or college recruiting opportunity because the category created for her was not protected.
Vote No Because Doctors and Nurses Warn It Requires Invasive Genital Exams On Girls The WA State Nurses Association, Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates, and doctors warn this measure would subject girls to medically unnecessary, embarrassing, and potentially harmful genital exams. Today, students remain fully clothed during sports physicals. Many of Washington’s 147,500 girls without a regular family doctor would be subject to genital examinations by total strangers. Vote No Because It Discourages Girls From Playing Sports Coaches and athletes say if we truly cared about girls’ sports we would not put up more barriers for girls like invasive genital exam requirements. This statewide blanket ban to kick 5 - 10 trans girls off school teams will negatively impact all girls, leaving no room for case by case decisions.
Rebuttal of argument against
Rebuttal of argument for
Don’t be misled by the opposition. IL26-638 doesn’t require invasive or expensive exams. Standard primary pediatric care already verifies sex; transferring that record to sports is sufficient. Male athletic advantage is well established. Washington competition results document at least 269 placements by male athletes competing in girls’ interscholastic categories, including 74 firsts and 156 top-three finishes. The initiative doesn’t ban anyone from sports. It simply requires participation consistent with one’s sex. Vote yes.
IL26-638 is opposed by pediatricians, nurses, parents, and sexual assault prevention groups because it discriminates against girls and puts them at risk of harm. Today girls in elementary, middle, and high school remain fully clothed during sports physicals. Doctors say this poorly written measure will subject girls to new invasive genital examinations. This measure - the most extreme in the nation - exempts boys, and bans parents from using birth certificates. Vote No to protect girls.
Written by
Written by
Alesha Perkins, Parent and Education Advocate, Independent Writer; Dori Whitford, High School Coach, Track and Cross Country; Carol Brown, Olympic Bronze Medalist, Rowing Board Member, ICONS; Erica Li, MD, Board-Certified Pediatrician; Ahnaleigh Wilson, Student Athlete, Girls’ Sports Advocate; Jess Grant, Member, Democrats for an Informed Approach to Gender
Justin Gill, APRN, President, WA State Nurses Association; Courtney Normand, WA State Director, Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates; Karen Crowley, President, League of Women Voters of WA; Grace Shih, M.D., Family Physician; Katie Johnson, RN, Retired School Nurse; Paul Charbonneau, High School Girls’ Wrestling Coach
Contact: diagwash@gmail.com; www.di-ag.org
Contact: NoHateInWAState.org/About-I-638; info@nohateinwastate.org
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Federal Offices
Qualifications & Responsibilities Except for the President and Vice President, all federal officials elected in Washington must be residents of the state.
Congress The United States’ Senate and House of Representatives have equal responsibility for declaring war, maintaining the armed forces, assessing taxes, borrowing money, minting currency, regulating commerce, and making all laws and budgets necessary for the operation of government.
United States Representative Representatives must be at least 25 years old and citizens of the U.S. for at least seven years. Representatives are not required to be registered voters of their district, but must reside in the state. Representatives serve two-year terms. The House of Representatives has 435 members, all of whom are up for election in even-numbered years. Each state has a different number of members based on population.
Candidate statements are printed as submitted. Our office does not make corrections or verify statements for truth.
What is “party preference?” Each candidate for partisan office may state a political party that they prefer. A candidate’s preference does not imply that the candidate is nominated or endorsed by the party, or that the party approves of or associates with that candidate.
Candidates submitted their information for this pamphlet prior to printing. For the most current information, sign in to VoteWA.gov.
Candidates may choose to not state a political party preference. In each race, the two candidates who received the most votes in the August Primary appear on your November General Election ballot.
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United States Representative | District 4 | 2-year term Amanda
McKinney (Prefers Republican Party)
Elected Experience Yakima County Commissioner, 6 Years. Vice Chair, Rural and Agriculture Affairs Committee, National Association of Counties Washington State Counties Representative, Western Interstate Region Board, NACo. Elected by fellow Commissioners to represent All Counties Nationwide on Wildland Fire Issues Other Professional Experience Small Business Owner and Successful Mortgage Banker for over 20 Years in Central Washington Education Central Washington University, Dual Degrees; Pre-Law, Emphasis in Criminal Justice and Political Science, Emphasis in Constitutional Law Community Service Rotarian, 22 Years and counting! BOD Member Yakima YMCA and United Way, Home Build Chair Habitat for Humanity, Board President CTCS/St Paul Cathedral School, Yakima Greenway
Statement I am Amanda McKinney, a Wife, Mother, Christian, Daughter of a veteran and law enforcement officer, County Commissioner and the only Trump-Endorsed Candidate. I bring proven leadership rooted in faith, family, and service to our rural way of life. Central Washington’s agriculture is the backbone of our economy and America’s food supply. I will champion family farms, orchards, dairies, and ranchers by defending water rights, lowering input costs, advancing ag technology, addressing labor challenges, and securing fair trade for our producers. I have led efforts to make our district a hub for agricultural innovation. Our district powers the Pacific Northwest through the Columbia and Snake River dams. I will protect these assets that provide affordable energy, irrigation and commerce. To secure energy dominance and win the AI race, we must prioritize advanced nuclear power, expand Hanford’s mission, invest in fusion technology, and use LNG to keep energy affordable. Public safety is non-negotiable. Raised in a law enforcement family, I stand for law and order, secure borders, and constitutional rights, especially the Second Amendment. I will always support our first responders. My record shows results. As Commissioner, I serve in leadership at the Washington State and National Association of Counties, advocating for rural priorities statewide and nationally. I’ve fought overreach, secured resources, prevented fraud, and strengthened our voice on water, agriculture, and fiscal responsibility. I am also humbly endorsed by Speaker Mike Johnson, Turning Point Action and over 40+ local elected officials and business leaders who trust my America First Leadership. This is our moment for renewal. With constitutional principles and proven leadership, we will restore prosperity, defend freedoms, and secure the American Dream for our children. I am ready to be your voice in Congress for Central Washington’s values and our future. Contact (509) 731-3130; contact@mckinneyforwashington.com; www.mckinneyforwashington.com
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United States Representative | District 4 | 2-year term John
Duresky (Prefers Democratic Party)
Elected Experience None. Other Professional Experience 24 year Air Force career, first Avionics Technician, then Commissioned Cyberspace Operations Officer. Led teams in deployed network, influence, and airborne communications operations working with the NSA, CIA, and Combatant Commands. After military service, managed major federal technology and contractor oversight programs budgeted at more than $100 million annually at Hanford. Education Professional Aeronautics, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (BS), Avionics Systems Technology, Community College of the Air Force (AAS). Community Service I have volunteered with community service projects including public lands stewardship and wildlife conservation. I have also coached little league baseball and been involved in scouting activities.
Statement Practical Solutions for Central Washington: Central Washington deserves a representative focused on results— not culture wars or partisan games. That is why I am running for Congress. Affordability & Economic Security: As a retired Air Force Major with three combat deployments, I know what war costs. Working families are already struggling with rising gas prices and grocery bills, and we need to focus on lowering these costs at home instead of wasting taxpayer dollars abroad. I want to rebuild trust in labor unions, raise the federal minimum wage, and invest in infrastructure (including roads, bridges, and broadband) that creates jobs and connects communities. Healthcare Access: No one should have to drive 100 miles to see a doctor or go bankrupt from a medical emergency. We need to keep rural hospitals open and funded, restore ACA (Affordable Care Act) subsidies, protect Medicare and Apple Health/Medicaid, lower prescription drug costs, and increase transparency so families never face surprise medical bills. Ultimately, moving toward universal healthcare coverage should be our goal. Agriculture & Our Economy: Central Washington’s farmers feed the world, but water insecurity and rising costs threaten that. I’ll work to remove harmful tariffs, ensure the Farm Bill works for small operations, protect irrigation rights, and reform the H2A visa program. Defending Democracy: With 24 years of experience in the military and cybersecurity, I know it takes teamwork to keep our country and our allies safe. I will also support banning congressional stock trading, overturning Citizens United, and imposing real ethics rules on our courts and politicians. Protecting our Public Lands: Public lands belong to everyone. I’ll fight against the ongoing effort to sell our public lands and protect them for future generations. We should not be making it harder for hunters, anglers, hikers, and campers to access the places they love. Contact (509) 554-6804; info@johnduresky.com; https://www.johnduresky4congress.com/
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State Legislative Offices
Qualifications & Responsibilities Legislators must be registered voters of their district.
Legislature Legislators propose and enact public policy, set a budget, and provide for the collection of taxes to support state and local government.
State Senator The Senate has 49 members; one from each legislative district in the state. Senators are elected to four-year terms, and approximately one-half the membership of the Senate is up for election each even-numbered year. The Senate’s only exclusive duty is to confirm appointments made by the governor.
State Representative The House of Representatives has 98 members; two from each legislative district in the state. Representatives are elected to two-year terms, so the total membership of the House is up for election each even-numbered year.
Candidates submitted their information for this pamphlet prior to printing. For the most current information, sign in to VoteWA.gov.
Candidate statements are printed as submitted. Our office does not make corrections or verify statements for truth.
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State Senator | District 8 | 4-year term Nikki
Gabe
Torres
Galbraith
(Prefers Republican Party)
(Prefers Republican Party)
Elected Experience Elected to the Senate, 15th District 2022, Deputy Floor Leader, Assistant Ranking Operating Budget. Elected to Pasco City Council, 2021 Other Professional Experience Before serving in the state Senate, I worked at Gesa Credit Union as a Small Business Development Officer helping businesses across our region which ignited my passion for economic development reinforcing the importance of responsible financial management. Education MBA, UOP Community Service Washington State Senator; former President of Tri-Cities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; Served on WA Childcare Collaborative Task Force, Kennewick Police Department Foundation Board, Tri-Cities Community Health Board, and Visit Tri-Cities. Volunteered with Junior Achievement and as a Girl Scout co-troop leader. Statement I am grateful for the opportunity to have served the Tri-Cities in the Washington State Senate during the last four years. During my time in Olympia, I have worked to deliver real results for our communities, including securing more than $500 million in capital funding for infrastructure, public safety, and community projects across our region. I am especially proud of my work to support law enforcement and to protect public safety during a time when harmful policies threatened our communities and families. I will keep fighting for strong public schools, safe communities, affordable housing, mental health services, and responsible state budgets that put working families first. I will continue to oppose wasteful spending, unfair taxes, burdensome regulations, and policies that make it harder for families and small businesses to succeed. I take the stewardship of taxpayer dollars seriously and believe the state should manage its finances the same way families and businesses do, conservatively, responsibly, and with integrity. I am honored to be endorsed by Representative April Connors, Representative Stephanie Barnard. With your support, I will continue working to protect our communities, strengthen local businesses, and defend the values that make the Tri-Cities strong. Contact (509) 301-7471; Bethswansonpr@gmail.com; www.NikkiTorresforWA.com
Elected Experience Elected to the Kennewick School Board in 2021 and re-elected in 2025. Serving as your Board President since 2023. Other Professional Experience Currently a Security Specialist at Hanford and small business owner. Previous experience includes 15+ years in HR, Operations Management, VA disability claims, former substitute teacher, and proud U.S. Marine Veteran. Education Two master’s degrees, Elementary Education and Business Administration, a bachelor’s degree in accounting, and a Kamiakin High School graduate. Community Service Served as a local youth sports coach, participated in food and clothing drives, animal adoption events, Toys for Tots, PTO/PTAs, and an active member of my church. Statement I’ve dedicated my life to service as a U.S. Marine, small business owner, and Kennewick School Board Director. My wife and I raised our children here, guided by Faith, Family, and Service — the same principles that guide my work protecting children, supporting parents, and strengthening our community. Our families, businesses, and community come first. Nationally recognized and awarded School Board Director of the Year, I’ll bring that same proven leadership and commitment to results as your next Senator. You deserve a Senator who has lived, worked, and served here over 35 years — not a politician who moved here in February to advance a political career. Your vote presents a clear choice: proven local conservative leadership focused on serving the people of the 8th District and rejecting the failed status quo of Olympia, or a political opportunist focused on serving the state establishment. My record demonstrates I will unapologetically protect constitutional freedoms, support law enforcement, defend parental rights, strengthen schools, fight for affordable housing, address water and power concerns, and oppose higher taxes on working families. I’m honored to be endorsed by the Benton County Republican Party and many respected local leaders. Thank you for your support. God bless. Contact (509) 619-3183; gabeforwa@gmail.com; www.gabeforwa.com
Use a drop box! Ballots in a drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day are guaranteed on time.
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State Representative | District 8 Position 1 | 2-year term Stephanie
Barnard
Unopposed
(Prefers Republican Party)
Elected Experience State Representative since 2022. Legislative Leadership: Ranking Member of Technology, Economic Development, Veterans Committee; Capital Budget; Environment/Energy; Rules; Civic Health; Nuclear Energy Caucus & Multi-State Consortium; Public Safety; Women’s Caucus; WA Builds Board of Directors; National Committees: Nuclear, Natural Resources, Energy, Labor & Economic Development. Other Professional Experience Government Affairs: Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce; Local Government Affairs Committee; Tri-Cities Legislative Council Education CBC/WGU Community Service Founded ANGELS Network, a nonprofit providing car seats/ training for low-income, high-risk parents of newborn babies; Former Board Member- Boy Scouts of America; Former volunteer- B5; Current Board Member- Support, Advocacy, & Resource Center; Current Board Member- Columbia Ability Alliance. Statement It has been a profound honor to serve the Tri-Cities as your elected representative. As a single mother, I know how challenging it is to pay the bills and keep food on the table. I am committed to quality education, protecting parental rights, and ensuring affordable access to essentials like gas, food, energy, and housing. I will continue fighting for lower taxes, strengthening public safety, developing a skilled workforce, and driving economic growth. As my leadership responsibilities in Olympia grow, so do the opportunities. Let’s work together to build a better and brighter future. Thank you for your continued support! Contact (509) 581-2484; Stephanie@StephanieforWA.com; StephanieforWA.com
If you need to return your ballot by mail, we recommend sending it more than a week before Election Day.
State Representative | District 8 Position 2 | 2-year term April
Connors
Unopposed
(Prefers Republican Party)
Elected Experience Our current State Representative, April serves as House Republican Floor Leader, Assistant Ranking Member on the Appropriations Committee, and a member of the Housing and Rules committees. Other Professional Experience April Connors is a successful real estate professional with a managing broker’s license and 25 years of experience helping families find homes in the Tri-Cities. Education BA, WSU Community Service April believes strong communities are built through service. She has volunteered with the Academy of Children’s Theatre, FFA, and PTO, and serves on the boards of Habitat for Humanity and Visit Tri-Cities. In 2010, she helped lead a relief effort to Haiti after the devastating earthquake. Statement Serving our community in Olympia has been one of the greatest honors of my life. I’m grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me and proud to be a strong voice for the TriCities and Eastern Washington. I’m focused on affordability, public safety, expanding housing opportunities, protecting local jobs, and supporting policies that strengthen our communities. I believe in listening first, working hard, and always putting our communities first. Whether fighting for Hanford, lowering costs, or creating more opportunities for families, I will continue working every day to be an effective voice for our district. Contact (509) 581-2480; hello@aprilforwashington.com; aprilforwashington.com
Voter tip: The fastest way to vote is to use a drop box! Election officials collect ballots from secure drop boxes and guarantee your ballot is received on time.
Use a drop box! Ballots in a drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day are guaranteed on time.
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State Representative | District 14 Position 1 | 2-year term Gloria
Chelsea
Mendoza
Dimas
(Prefers Republican Party)
(Prefers Democratic Party)
Elected Experience Member of Washington State House of Representatives, 2 years. Mayor of the City of Grandview, 5 years. Member Grandview City Council, 3 years. Other Professional Experience Other Professional Experience: GMC Companies, LLC. Founder and CEO (25 years). We provide vocational training to individuals, especially agriculture workers, and public and private organizations. Education Education: Graduated from Grandview High School and Yakima Valley Community College. Community Service Community Service: As a Rotary Club member, Gloria has helped raise money for student scholarships, senior activities and community days’ events. She has been Grandview’s economic development liaison to new businesses and housing developers. Church volunteer. Statement Gloria is a proven conservative leader who has served as Grandview’s Mayor, Council member, and now as the Representative for the 14th District. A former farmworker, business owner and mom, Gloria understands the values and challenges of working families and is committed to supporting our agricultural economy and strengthening our communities. During her first term in Olympia, Gloria fought to protect individual rights, defend family values, oppose new taxes and burdensome regulations, and support small businesses. She remains committed to upholding the Constitution, including the Second Amendment and religious freedom. She will continue to be a strong voice in Olympia. Contact (509) 830-4935; gloria@votegloria.com; votegloria.com
Elected Experience Current Precinct Committee Officer-Democratic Party Other Professional Experience With more than a decade in both the public and private sectors—plus fluency in English and Spanish, Chelsea’s expertise will help when addressing our community’s needs. Her experience includes: Civil Survival, Washington State House of Representatives, Toppenish School District, and Habitat for Humanity. Education Bachelor of Fine Arts, Pacific Lutheran University; Associate of Arts, Yakima Valley College; Diploma, Sunnyside High School Community Service Commissioner, WA State Human Rights Commission; Commissioner, WA State Commission on Hispanic Affairs; DEI Committee Member, Sunnyside School District; Volunteer, United Farm Workers; Former Board Director, Central Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Statement Raised by immigrant farmworkers in the Yakima Valley, Chelsea knows the sacrifices working families make every day. She believes no one should choose between paying rent, buying groceries, or accessing healthcare. As your State Representative, Chelsea will fight to lower costs for working families, protect workers and small businesses, invest in public education and universal childcare, and keep our neighborhoods safe and healthy. She’ll be a strong voice in Olympia who puts la gente (the people) first and will echarle ganas (work hard) for a future where we can all afford to live and dream right here in the 14th. Contact (509) 305-6921; info@chelseaforwa.com; chelseaforwa.com
If you need to return your ballot by mail, we recommend sending it more than a week before Election Day.
State Representative | District 14 Position 2 | 2-year term Deb
Ezequiel
Manjarrez
Morfin
(Prefers Republican Party)
(Prefers Democratic Party)
Elected Experience Washington State House of Representatives, 2 years. Yakima County Republican precinct committee officer, 16 years. Other Professional Experience Deb is the managing partner at Manjarrez and DeLeon PS, a CPA firm; treasurer of M&M Orchards, Inc; and a registered representative of Farmers Financial Services, LLC. Education Deb graduated from Wapato High School and Central Washington University, with a BA in Accounting. Community Service Deb was chairman of the Wapato Chamber of Commerce for 10 years, board member and chairman of the Republican Central Committee for 8 years, and founder and chairman of the Wapato Tamale Festival for 8 years. Statement Deb Manjarrez cares about her community. She is a certified public accountant, apple orchardist and active community volunteer who has lived all her life near Wapato. She comes from a 4th generation farming family and understands the meaning of hard work. Deb Manjarrez wants to continue to represent you in Olympia. Her business and accounting background qualifies her to fight runaway government spending and protect local agriculture interests. Deb and her husband, Mark, have been married for 40 years. They have two daughters and four grandchildren. Contact (509) 949-4268; deb@yesfordeb.com; yesfordeb.com
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Elected Experience Toppenish City Council Councilman. Toppenish Planning Commissioner, Board Member. Other Professional Experience Small Business Owner. Chief Electrical Inspector, Yakama Nation. Electrical Journeyman, Wapato Housing Authority. Electrical Foreman Berg Electric. Union Internship AFLCIO Teamsters. Can Am Millwork, Supervisor. Western RV Trailers, Leadman Supervisor. Education Toppenish High School. Yakima Valley College, Combined Associates Degree with Electrical Technology. Perry Technical Institute, Electrical Certificate. Community Service Toppenish Community Safety Network, Board Member. Radio KDNA, Member. Yakima May 1st Coalition, Member. Yakima Immigration Response Network. Latino Civic Alliance Votes, Regional Organizer. Washington State Farmworkers Union Representative, Board Member,Treasurer, Secretary. League of United American Citizens, Vice President. Statement These are challenging times for families from Yakima to Pasco and many are facing financial hardships. The cost of gas, groceries, and every day life is out of control. Families in our communities are living in fear of this federal administration and their unconstitutional attacks against our neighbors. That’s not the Central Washington we want to believe in. I’m running for State Representative to fight for truly affordable housing, family-wage jobs, and to take on a system that’s failing us. Endorsements: Yakima, Franklin and Benton County Democrats, Labor Unions, and many more. I respectfully ask for your vote. Thank you. Contact (509) 833-8838; info@electmorfin.com; www.electmorfin.com
Use a drop box! Ballots in a drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day are guaranteed on time.
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State Senator | District 15 | 4-year term Jeremie
Dufault
Unopposed
(Prefers Republican Party)
Elected Experience Washington State House of Representatives. Selah City Council. Other Professional Experience Commercial real estate investments. Lieutenant Colonel in U.S. Army Reserve, JAG Corps. Education A.C. Davis High School. University of Pennsylvania (BA). Harvard Law School (JD). Community Service Yakima County Veterans Board. Yakima Valley Technical School (YV-Tech) Board. Yakima County Economic Development Board. American Legion. Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). Statement Jeremie is a common-sense conservative who stands for political and economic freedom. He fights for lower taxes and smaller, smarter government. He works to provide opportunities for those who can, and assistance for those who can’t. Jeremie comes from a Yakima Valley farming family. He grew up in Yakima and lives in Selah with his daughters, Ellie, Lulu and Addy. He is a military veteran who served in Kuwait and Afghanistan. Jeremie has a proven record of delivering results in Olympia. Let’s keep him working for us. Contact (509) 902-2344; dufaultcampaign@gmail.com; www.electjeremie.com
If you need to return your ballot by mail, we recommend sending it more than a week before Election Day.
State Representative | District 15 Position 1 | 2-year term Chris
Jack
Corry
McEntire
(Prefers Republican Party)
(Prefers Democratic Party)
Elected Experience 14th District State Representative, 2019-2024. 15th District State Representative 2025-Current. Appropriations, Consumer Protection & Business Committees. Deputy Leader, House Republican Caucus. Other Professional Experience 15+ years in the property & casualty insurance industry. Eastern Washington Director, Washington Policy Center Education University of Washington, B.A. Political Science Community Service Yakima County Crime Stoppers - Board Member; Central Washington State Fair Association - Board Member; Yakima Salvation Army - Advisory Board Member; Yakima Southwest Rotary; Life Choices of Yakima; Foster & Adoptive Parent Statement Chris Corry believes in advocating for the families and businesses of Central Washington with common sense legislation that focuses on economic growth and protecting our most vulnerable. A vote for Chris is a vote for limited government that is fiscally responsible, upholding our Constitutional rights, parental rights, reducing tax burdens and regulations on businesses and families, and increasing local control for our schools! “It has been an honor to serve the people of our district and be a voice for Central Washington. I hope to earn your vote this election and continue representing our shared values in Olympia.”-Chris Contact (509) 654-3351; chris@chriscorry.com; chriscorry.com
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Elected Experience President Cascade Chainsaw Sculptors Guild, Precinct Committee Officer, Delegate Washington State Democrats Convention, Vice-Chairman Yakima County Democrats. Other Professional Experience Fruit picker, Laborer, Sculptor, Owner/operator Cascade Carvings (using salvaged wood) Partner Sculptures in Stone LLC, Smokey Bear Licensee (US Department of Agriculture), Cascade Chainsaw Sculptors Guild Board, Yakima Maker Space Teacher/Board, Yakima Art Commission Board. Education Holy Family elementary, Whitney elementary, Wilson Jr. High, Graduate Eisenhower H.S., Bachelor of Science degree Microbiology and Immunology University of Washington. Community Service Volunteer University District Food Bank, Donor: Selah Little League, American Cancer Society, Make a Wish Foundation, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Ducks Unlimited, Community Seeds, Yakima Veterans Coalition. Statement The future is found in our kids, the present is up to us. For years we’ve had no choice for our representatives. We’ve seen the same faces and ideas. They’ve said: If the rich get richer so will we – this hasn’t happened. If we elect the same people things will continue as they have. We need youth programs that teach skills. We deserve universal health care. Education, college or vocational school, should be based on ability and need, not money. Science and ability to Compromise are required. Investment in our future is the way to transform our home. Contact (509) 307-2768; avoteforjack@gmail.com; avoteforjack.com
Use a drop box! Ballots in a drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day are guaranteed on time.
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State Representative | District 15 Position 2 | 2-year term Reedy
Liz
Berg
Hallock
(Prefers Republican Party)
(Prefers No Kings Party)
Elected Experience Yakima City Council, District 7, 2024-Present; serving as Deputy Mayor beginning in 2026 Other Professional Experience 8th Grade U.S. History Teacher, Toppenish Middle School, 2016-Present; 8th Grade PLC Lead, Toppenish Middle School, 2022-Present; Agricultural Produce Broker, Northwest Brokerage Services, 2013-2015 Education Master of Arts in Teaching, Heritage University; Bachelor of Arts, Sports Management, Gonzaga University Community Service Active in the community as a Little League Baseball coach and Habitat for Humanity volunteer. Statement I grew up here, farmed here, and taught Valley kids for a decade. That experience shaped everything I stand for. As Deputy Mayor of Yakima, I’ve stood for fiscal responsibility, public safety, and protecting our agriculture and small businesses. Olympia keeps hurting our farmers, families, and economy. I’ll go there and push back. I will cut costs for families, block overreach, and protect the valley’s way of life. I am endorsed by the Yakima County Republican Party and Representative Jeremie Dufault. My wife Nicole and I are proudly raising our two children here in the valley. This is our home. Contact (509) 255-7116; info@reedyberg.com; https://www.reedyberg.com
Elected Experience 2016 County Convention Bernie Sanders delegate, Democratic Party PCO. Other Professional Experience Family Lawyer, Public Disclosure and Open Government Attorney, owned one of the first legal marijuana stores in the United States, rock climbing instructor. Education M.A. George Washington University, Elliott School of International Affairs, Security Policy Studies.B.A. Princeton University. Community Service Youth sports coach (tennis, basketball, soccer, softball), volunteer lawyer, volunteer yoga instructor. Statement For the .001%, America is in a Gilded Era. For the rest of us, economic inequality is at its peak. Reproductive rights are being gutted. Christian teachings are being hijacked to justify endless wars and to terrorize immigrants. Gas and grocery prices are sky high. Lawful gun owners are being shot in cold blood for exercising their right to peacefully protest. Our environment and our children’s futures are being destroyed. We need someone in Olympia who is going to fight for and protect Yakima residents from the King in the White House. I would be honored to receive your vote. Contact (360) 909-6327; ehallock.law@gmail.com
If you need to return your ballot by mail, we recommend sending it more than a week before Election Day.
State Representative | District 16 Position 1 | 2-year term Mark
Kyle
Klicker
Palmer
(Prefers Republican Party)
(Prefers Democratic Party)
Elected Experience Washington State House Representative (2021 - present); Committees: Local Government (Ranking member), Environment/Energy (Assistant Ranking member), House Transportation, Rules, Joint Committee on Transportation. Other Professional Experience Business owner, licensed real estate professional, Timber producer, Farm & Ranch Realtor Education Walla Walla Community College, Rockwell Institute School of Real Estate Community Service President Walla Walla County Farm Bureau, Mill Creek Watershed Fire Protection Committee, C0-Chair Walla Walla High School Track Project, Jubilee Christian Academy board member, Walla Walla Union-Bulletin Community Advisory Committee, Chairman Walla Walla County Voluntary Stewardship Program. Fort Walla Walla Museum board member, Western Blues Stewardship Admin Group Statement My goals are straightforward. 1. Bridging Partisan Divides: No one wins when we have isolated conversations that lead to one-sided legislation. I remain committed to working collaboratively with bipartisan ideas. 2. Meaningful Legislation: Our communities deserve impactful legislation. I will continue championing tax relief, rectifying harmful police reform bills, advocating for more reliable energy sources, including nuclear, hydroelectric and natural gas, and dismantling regulations hindering small businesses and farmers. 3. Open Advocacy: I will continue to be an accessible resource for all 16th District constituents. I appreciate your support for my re-election. Contact (509) 520-7370; klickerForRep@outlook.com
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Elected Experience None Other Professional Experience Small business owner and real estate professional with experience in housing, land use, and regional development. Education Undergraduate studies in social sciences at Washington State University and graduate studies in real estate development at Portland State University. Community Service Third-generation Mid-Columbia resident and former Chair of the Richland Planning Commission. Former AmeriCorps VISTA member, former Chair of the Tri-Cities Association of REALTORS® Education Committee, and board member of Friends of the Richland Library. Statement The Mid-Columbia is helping develop the future of energy, agriculture, science, and technology, but too often government moves too slowly to help deploy real solutions. Families and businesses cannot afford gridlock, endless delays, or politics that prioritize ideological battles over results. We need practical leadership focused on housing, water security, reliable energy, and economic opportunity while streamlining barriers that prevent progress and innovation from moving forward. I’ll work with anyone, regardless of party, to move practical solutions forward and help build a stronger future for communities across the 16th District. Contact (509) 539-2061; PalmerWA16@gmail.com
Use a drop box! Ballots in a drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day are guaranteed on time.
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State Representative | District 16 Position 2 | 2-year term Skyler
Derek
(Prefers Republican Party)
(Prefers Democratic Party)
Rude
Elected Experience 16th District State Representative (2019–present); Assistant Minority Floor Leader; Chairman, State Committeeman, and Precinct Committee Officer for the Walla Walla County Republican Party Other Professional Experience Real Estate Broker and small business owner; Legislative Assistant, Washington State Senate (2017-18) and House of Representatives (2015-16); Insurance Agent (2009-14) Education Walla Walla Community College; Western Governors University Community Service Past involvement: Care and Share Food Drive; Blue Mountain Action Council Board Member; Washington State Leadership Board Member; Walla Walla Parks, Recreation and Urban Forestry Advisory Board; Columbia Basin College EMS Program Advisory Committee Statement Born and raised in Walla Walla, Skyler has spent his life serving the communities of the 16th District. Since joining the Legislature in 2019, he has built a reputation for bipartisan leadership focused on practical solutions and strong local representation. Skyler’s priorities include improving educational outcomes, supporting public safety, strengthening the local economy, and protecting services for vulnerable populations. As a leader on education policy and a voice for southeastern Washington, Skyler works to ensure communities from Walla Walla to the Tri-Cities are heard in Olympia. He remains committed to respectful leadership, fiscal responsibility, and putting people before politics. Contact (509) 200-9987; skyler@electskylerrude.com; www.electskylerrude.com
Sarley Elected Experience Board of Directors of Walla Walla Public Schools since 2015, where we’ve raised graduation rates, expanded academic and extracurricular opportunities for students, increased family engagement, and earned recognition as School Board of the Year. I’ve completed four terms as board president, advocated for our students as legislative representative, and served as president of WSSDA, representing all 295 Washington school districts. Other Professional Experience 25 years in small business leadership, helping grow a small PR agency into a 100-person firm serving clients nationwide. Education Rice University, BA Economics and Political Science Community Service A decade coaching with the Blue Mountain Girls Softball Association. Blue Mountain Evening Rotary. Statement Washington is in a deep budget hole. Each year brings new taxes combined with cuts to priority areas like childcare and education. We need new, strong voices in Olympia who will fix the budget mess and get Washington back to investing in what matters for the working families, farms, and small businesses that are the backbones of our Eastern Washington communities. I have the experience of 25 years in business and 10 years in responsive local government. As your representative, I will bring conviction and change to Olympia. If you want something different, it’s time to vote for someone different. Contact (509) 593-0189; sarleyforwashington@gmail.com; https://sarleyforwashington.com/
If you need to return your ballot by mail, we recommend sending it more than a week before Election Day.
State Judicial Offices
Qualifications & Responsibilities Washington judges are nonpartisan. Judges must be registered Washington voters.
Judges Judicial candidates must be in good standing to practice law in Washington and are prohibited from statements that appear to commit them on legal issues that may come before them in court.
State Supreme Court Justice The Washington Supreme Court is the highest judiciary in the state. State Supreme Court justices hear appeals and decide cases from Courts of Appeals and other lower courts. Nine justices are elected statewide to serve sixyear terms.
Court of Appeals Judge Court of Appeals judges hear appeals from Superior Courts. A total of 22 judges serve three divisions headquartered in Seattle, Tacoma, and Spokane. Court of Appeals judges serve six-year terms.
Superior Court Judge Superior Courts hear felony criminal cases, civil matters, divorces, juvenile cases, and appeals from the lower courts. Superior Courts are organized by county into 32 districts. Superior Court judges serve four-year terms.
Candidates submitted their information for this pamphlet prior to printing. For the most current information, sign in to VoteWA.gov.
Candidate statements are printed as submitted. Our office does not make corrections or verify statements for truth.
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Supreme Court Justice | Position 1 | 2-year unexpired term Colleen
Scott
Melody
Edwards
(Nonpartisan)
(Nonpartisan)
Legal/Judicial Experience Supreme Court Justice. Colleen Melody works every day to uphold the rule of law, improve access to justice, and protect the rights of Washingtonians. Other Professional Experience Colleen was a career civil rights lawyer and public servant. She taught at the University of Washington and brought pro bono cases on behalf of immigrants and veterans. She worked at a pizza shop in high school and waited tables through college. Education UW for college and law school, both with high honors. Community Service Colleen worked to improve access to services in her rural community, including better resources for seniors, increased healthcare services, and more affordable childcare. Statement Colleen grew up in Spokane, the daughter of a teacher and a healthcare advocate. As a civil rights lawyer, she protected Washingtonians whose rights were violated by multinational corporations, special interests, and the federal government. Colleen returned millions in wages owed to workers and protected employees from pregnancy discrimination and sexual harassment. As the leader of the Attorney General’s Civil Rights Division, she beat the Trump Administration when it tried to impose its unconstitutional Muslim Ban and separate families at the border. Now more than ever, state courts must safeguard our rights with independence and impartiality. Washington’s laws provide broad protections in privacy, the workplace, housing, healthcare, and education. State courts must be places where victims of crime and discrimination may seek justice with safety and dignity. Colleen is a working mom who lives in rural Western Washington with her husband and two public-school daughters. She is endorsed by every sitting Supreme Court Justice; retired Justices Yu and Madsen; Governors Ferguson, Inslee, and Gregoire; Attorney General Brown; hundreds of judges and elected leaders statewide, and the Washington State Labor Council. Your rights matter. Justice Colleen Melody has worked her entire career to protect them. Contact (206) 745-2010; hello@melodyforjustice.com; https://melodyforjustice.com/
Legal/Judicial Experience Ballard Spahr/Lane Powell (2010-present) (Practice Chair 2010-2024) (Board 2017-2019, 2023-24); Perkins Coie (1999-2010); Bogle & Gates (1996-1999). Significant experience before Washington courts on constitutional and other complex issues; Ranked as among the top in my field: Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers in America, and Chambers. Other Professional Experience Adjunct Professor, University of Washington School of Law (2002-present); Washington State Bar Association; American Bar Association; Council on State Taxation. Education University of Washington School of Law (with Honors) 1991; Princeton University (magna cum laude) 1988, Economics Paul Volcker Award recipient. Community Service American Red Cross; St. Cecilia Parish; Scouting America; Bainbridge Island Youth Orchestra; Kids in Concert. Statement I am running to bring independence, principled judgment, and respect for the rule of law to the Washington Supreme Court. An independent court protects constitutional rights, ensures equal justice, and serves as a final and balanced check within our system of government. The role of the Supreme Court is to apply the constitution and laws as written, not rewrite them. For more than 30 years I have represented clients at all levels of Washington’s court system, including more than a dozen Washington Supreme Court cases. As a tax and constitutional attorney, I work on complex issues that directly affect Washington families and businesses. I have also taught at the University of Washington School of Law for over 20 years. I learned the value of hard work, integrity, and public service early, working at my grandparents’ restaurant and watching my father serve as Alaska’s attorney general. Washington deserves justices who will apply the law predictably, as written, and without favoring any political agenda. My commitment is to protect your constitutional rights and work to make the Washington Supreme Court accountable and worthy of your trust. Take politics out of the courtroom. Vote Scott Edwards, Position 1. Contact (206) 201-1108; info@votescottedwards.com; votescottedwards.com
If you need to return your ballot by mail, we recommend sending it more than a week before Election Day.
Supreme Court Justice | Position 3 | 6-year term David
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Jaime Michelle
Stevens
Hawk
(Nonpartisan)
(Nonpartisan)
Legal/Judicial Experience Superior Court Judge; Senior Felony Prosecutor; Federal Public Defender, Chief Public Defender Colville Confederated Tribes; Federal Prosecutor; International Prosecutor in Pristina, Kosovo; Justice Advisor in Bamiyan, Afghanistan. Other Professional Experience Federal Civil Rights Investigator; U.S. Navy Veteran; presenter: legal education seminars in Beirut, Lebanon, Kolasin and Budva, Montenegro, and for the Washington Association of Prosecuting Attorneys. Education Juris Doctor, University of Washington School of Law; Bachelor of Arts, University of Washington. Department of State Certificate in Islamic Jurisprudence. Community Service Deacon, Mount Olive Lutheran Church; VFW Larry Godwin Post 1694 Honor Guard; Skookum Rotary; UW Law School Mentor; YMCA and UW Law school mock trial judge. Statement The duty of the Washington State Supreme Court is to uphold our constitution and to protect our rights and freedoms. Public policy is the province of the political branches and not the courts. In the last two decades, direct appointment of judges by the governor rather than election of judges by the people has become a longstanding tradition. Our State Constitution mandated the election of judges because direct appointment leads to ideological and political decisions. Appointments were reserved for vacancies. Judge Stevens was elected and not appointed. His election will bring common sense and balance to the Supreme Court. After High School, Judge Stevens joined the Navy. After his enlistment, he used his veteran’s benefits to attend the University of Washington where he met his wife Pam. After graduating, he worked as a Federal Civil Rights Investigator for the Fair Housing Enforcement Center Seattle fighting racial, ethnic, and religious discrimination. He then went to the UW School of Law. Judge Stevens and his wife live in Shelton close to six of their nine grandchildren. As a lawyer and judge he has tried more than two hundred jury trials. His supporters include tribes, judges, public defenders, prosecutors, attorneys, and law enforcement. Contact (360) 789-1405; DavidforJustice@yahoo.com; JudgeStevensforWA.com
Legal/Judicial Experience Judge Jaime Hawk has been a state and national legal leader for over 20 years. As a Superior Court Judge, federal public defender, and ACLU civil rights attorney, she has protected our rights and freedoms. Other Professional Experience Adjunct Professor of Law. Supreme Court Minority and Justice Commission. In work before law school, Judge Hawk supported domestic violence survivors and found them safe shelter. Education Raised by a single mom, Judge Hawk was the first in her family to attend college, graduating with honors from Gonzaga University Law School. Community Service Judge Hawk has advocated on boards for immigrant children, voting rights, veterans, and women’s rights. Statement Judge Hawk fought in the courtroom for those who could not afford a lawyer. She handled trials and appeals, and defended Washingtonians against the federal government. She is the first attorney with the ACLU of Washington to become a judge. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal and Governor Bob Ferguson endorse Judge Hawk. Judge Hawk is a trusted, experienced legal leader. Senators Murray and Cantwell appointed her to their federal judge selection committee. The American Bar Association selected her to observe Guantanamo Bay military hearings, and later chose her to assist families at the border torn apart by Trump-era immigration policies. Judge Hawk has presided over hundreds of criminal, civil, and family law cases, as well as appeals from lower courts. She has never had a trial overturned for legal error. She follows the law. More than 100 current and retired judges and justices from across Washington endorse Judge Hawk. Judge Hawk will bring a strong, independent voice. Endorsed by the National Women’s Political Caucus, local and county Democratic organizations, and the State Labor Council, she understands the concerns of women and working families and will bring that perspective to the Court. Judge Hawk will protect our rights and the rule of law. Contact (206) 486-2959; info@judgehawk.com; www.judgehawk.com
Use a drop box! Ballots in a drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day are guaranteed on time.
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Supreme Court Justice | Position 4 | 6-year term Ian
Sean
Birk
O’Donnell
(Nonpartisan)
(Nonpartisan)
Legal/Judicial Experience Judge, State Court of Appeals, appointed by Governor Jay Inslee, then elected. I am proud to serve the state’s second highest court, hearing cases statewide. Other Professional Experience Two decades in private practice, representing individuals, families, and small businesses—often against powerful corporate interests—in cases involving insurance claims, consumer protection, workplace discrimination, and complex civil litigation. Education BA and JD, University of Washington Community Service More than 10 years service to King County Bar Association Neighborhood Legal Clinics, providing free legal assistance to people who could not afford an attorney. Many cases involved renters, consumers, and working families facing immediate financial or housing insecurity. Statement I’m proud to be the only candidate in this position with statewide judicial experience and an appellate track record demonstrating respect for the rule of law, its impacts on communities, and all people we serve. With my background representing everyday Washingtonians, I will bring a unique perspective to the Supreme Court, where I’ll continue authoring opinions that are independent, fair, and grounded in shared values. In every case I have taken as a lawyer, and heard as a judge, I have focused on the right of every person to equal access to justice, equal treatment under the law, and fair outcomes. I’ve written hundreds of decisions across civil, criminal, family, administrative, and constitutional law, an unmatched breadth of experience rated “exceptionally well qualified” by Washington Women Lawyers and the Cardozo Society. I’m proudly endorsed by AG Nick Brown, Justices Gonzalez, Gordon-McCloud, Whitener, Montoya-Lewis, Mungia, Angelis, former Justices Ireland and Yu, over 100 judicial colleagues elected from all 39 counties in Washington, US Rep Pramila Jayapal, King County Exec Girmay Zahilay, WA State Labor Council, Machinists, Teachers, King County Democrats, and more. Together, we can maintain the integrity and independence of our courts in challenging times. I ask for your vote. Contact info@ianbirk.com; www.ianbirk.com
Legal/Judicial Experience Judge on King County Superior Court since 2013; Washington State Supreme Court Justice Pro Tem; elected Superior Court Judges’ Association President by judges statewide; Chief of King County’s Family Law and Criminal Departments; Special Inquiry Judge; mental health court lead judge; prosecutor for 12 years, served on the Green River Task Force and tried Washington’s first human trafficking case; Special Assistant United States Attorney; statewide court security task force chair. Other Professional Experience Adjunct Faculty, Seattle University School of Law Education Seattle University School of Law, J.D. cum laude; Georgetown University, B.A. Community Service Rainier Scholars Resource Council; volunteer mediator; volunteer mock trial judge Statement I have been in public service for 25 years as a trial judge, Supreme Court Justice Pro Tem, and prosecutor. I have protected individuals’ constitutional rights, upheld the rule of law, and centered crime victims’ voices in our justice system. I know the role the law plays to protect and serve us all. I began my legal career helping bring the Green River Killer to justice. As Chief Family Law Judge, I helped start a protection order court that resulted in hundreds of firearms being surrendered by people who committed acts of domestic violence. We live in unprecedented times for our democracy. As a Justice, I will defend our rights and the Constitution, maintain impartiality, and always remember that my rulings affect real people. I am proud to be rated “Exceptionally Well Qualified” for the Supreme Court by multiple bar associations and named “Judge of the Year” by the Washington Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates. Endorsements: Governor Christine Gregoire, Congressman Adam Smith, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland, Lands Commissioner Dave Upthegrove, Seattle City Council President Joy Hollingsworth, 15 mayors, county executives, Washington Farm Bureau, Washington Council of Police and Sheriffs, and over 200 trial and appellate court judicial officers. Contact (206) 588-6172; campaign@odonnellforjustice.com; odonnellforjustice.com
If you need to return your ballot by mail, we recommend sending it more than a week before Election Day.
Supreme Court Justice | Position 5 | 2-year unexpired term Theo
Dave
Angelis
Larson
(Nonpartisan)
(Nonpartisan)
Legal/Judicial Experience Current Supreme Court Justice appointed by Governor Ferguson following a diverse, award-winning 26-year legal career as a Partner at K&L Gates. Other Professional Experience Throughout career, led Appellate and Intellectual Property teams, and pro bono cases representing immigrant children, veterans, refugees, small businesses, and people experiencing homelessness. Education BA, Claremont McKenna College; MA, Oxford University; MA, London School of Economics; JD, Yale University Community Service Trustee, King County Bar Association; President, Middle Eastern Legal Association of Washington; Member, Attorney General’s Youth Internet Safety Task Force; Founders Award, Kids in Need of Defense; ACLU Humanitarian Award; Mentor of the Year, King County Bar Association Statement As a Justice and throughout my legal career, I’ve fought for the rule of law, the rights of all individuals, and to ensure our courts remain fair, independent, and accessible. Before joining the Supreme Court, I frequently volunteered to help people who couldn’t afford lawyers. I sued the federal government when they forced children—as young as 4 years old—to appear without lawyers in immigration court. The federal government eventually agreed to pay for lawyers, and the ACLU gave me the Humanitarian Award. I also represented an Army veteran, a naturalized U.S. citizen, after ICE wrongly detained him for seven months. The Northwest Immigrant Rights Project gave me the Amicus Award for my “groundbreaking work”. I’ve worked to mentor attorneys to expand diversity in our profession, and with Turkish and Greek ancestry, I am proud to be the first Justice of Middle Eastern descent on our highest court. I am endorsed by all of my colleagues on the Supreme Court; Governors Ferguson and Gregoire; former U.S. Attorneys Durkan, Gorman, and McKay; over 500 Judges and attorneys statewide; 52 State Legislators; Executive Zahilay; mayors statewide; WA State Labor Council; King County and numerous LD Democrats; and more! Contact info@justiceangelis.com; justiceangelis.com
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Legal/Judicial Experience 41 years legal experience; trial judge (18 years, Ret.), trial lawyer (23 years). Rated AV Preeminent as a trial lawyer and Exceptionally Well Qualified (Judge and Supreme Court candidate). Other Professional Experience Mediator and arbitrator (1990-2008); President, Federal Way School Board Education JD, Seattle University School of Law; BA, University of Puget Sound. Community Service DMCJA President’s Award for Protecting Judicial Independence (2018); Judge William Nevins Award (2014) and Hero of Federal Way Schools (2018, 2022) for Commitment to Civics Education; Best City Leader (2022); Kiwanis (Everyday Hero Award and more); Founder, Aktion Club of Federal Way (service club for adults with developmental disabilities), and more. Statement Judge Dave Larson’s 41 years of distinguished experience, 18 years as a trial judge, 23 as a trial lawyer, form an unrivaled record making him the most qualified and best prepared candidate for our state’s highest court. Dave will restore trust in our courts by rising above partisan interests, applying the law without fear or favor, and restoring judicial independence. A truly nonpartisan candidate, Dave reaches out to Democrats, Republicans, Labor, Business, and voters across Eastern and Western Washington, because justice that serves only some of us serves none of us. He will protect your individual rights and the judicial independence that is currently under threat. Dave’s innovative criminal justice reforms have been recognized nationwide. He has collaborated with legislative Democrats and Republicans to help our trial courts address crime and addiction with compassion and accountability. However, our Supreme Court’s decisions have weakened that response. As a justice, he will help fix current problems and build towards lasting and effective solutions. Our Supreme Court needs Dave’s unique perspective gained from his significant trial judge experience. That experience, integrity, and steady judgment are exactly what’s needed to restore trust in, and improve, our courts. Vote Judge Dave Larson for Supreme Court. Contact (206) 207-2903; campaign@larsonforjustice.com; www.larsonforjustice.com
Use a drop box! Ballots in a drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day are guaranteed on time.
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Supreme Court Justice | Position 7 | 6-year term Debra L.
Todd A.
Stephens
Bloom
(Nonpartisan)
(Nonpartisan)
Legal/Judicial Experience Current Chief Justice and Justice since 2008. Court of Appeals Judge, Eastern Washington (2007). Appellate Attorney & adjunct professor, Gonzaga University (1993-2007). Other Professional Experience Board for Judicial Administration Co-Chair, National Association of Women Judges, Judicial Independence Committee Co-Chair, Chief Justices Conference Executive Committee, National Courts & Sciences Institute Director, National Judicial College Instructor, WA Civic Learning Council, former Spokane Community College instructor. Education Gonzaga University, J.D., B.A. West Valley High, Spokane. Community Service Former school board chair, Upward Bound mentor, Minority & Justice Commission, YMCA Youth & Government, Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital, Habitat for Humanity, Past Rotary President, Washington Center for Performing Arts board member. Statement As Washington’s Chief Justice, I am dedicated to upholding the rule of law and delivering fair and impartial justice. Courts are a critical branch of government, where every person must be treated fairly and with dignity, and decisions must be based on the law and the facts. In an era of growing attempts to politicize the judiciary, I work every day to maintain the integrity and independence of our courts and safeguard access to justice for every person. As a former constitutional law professor, I respect legal traditions and constitutional principles. As a parent and former school board chair, I understand how court decisions impact the lives of Washington families. As the first woman from Eastern Washington on the Court, I know that lived experience and diverse perspectives matter in making sound decisions. I have a proven record of expanding access to justice, improving efficiency and transparency, addressing the evolving challenges facing our legal system, and protecting individual rights. I have always enjoyed broad support and am endorsed by my current and former colleagues, judges statewide, WA State Labor Council, elected officials, and education and community leaders. I ask for your vote to continue serving you on our Supreme Court. Contact (206) 382-5552; debra@debrastephenslaw.com; https://justicestephens.com
Legal/Judicial Experience Over two decades of providing legal and professional services to private and publicly-held companies, executives, business owners and Washington families; served as an Arbitrator for FINRA from 1999 to 2020. Other Professional Experience Over a decade as tax attorney and senior manager in major accounting firms. Active-duty Navy officer from 2002 to 2013. Additional professional designations: CPA, CFA and CFP. Education LL.M. - University of Washington; J.D., M.B.A. - Tulane University; M.A. - Naval War College; B.A. - Simpson College; College of Naval Command & Staff; Warfare Qualified. Community Service WSBA - Board of Governors; Nonprofit Finance Council; Adjunct faculty (UW, Tulane); Gallon+ Blood Donor Statement Throughout my career, I’ve worked to solve complex problems thoughtfully, collaboratively, and fairly. And my background has given me a deep appreciation for hard work, sacrifice, and the experiences of everyday people. To pay for school, I worked farm, grocery and restaurant jobs and later earned my commission from the enlisted ranks. Following 9/11, I was called from the Naval Reserve to active duty, where I served for more than a decade. I placed my civilian career on hold and left my wife and children to deploy to the Persian Gulf. That experience had a big impact on my understanding of duty, accountability, and leadership under pressure. Since returning to civilian life, I’ve continued my public service through the WSBA Board of Governors. It was there, I was encouraged to seek election to the Supreme Court. This year’s election is a choice--whether to retain the current justices or to give someone new your vote. I believe I represent meaningful new perspective, experience, and common sense which will bring balance to the court. If elected, I promise to uphold and apply the law impartially and fairly. I respectfully ask for your vote for Supreme Court Justice, Position #7. Contact (360) 876-2588; electtoddbloom@gmail.com
If you need to return your ballot by mail, we recommend sending it more than a week before Election Day.
Court of Appeals Judge | Division 3 District 2 Position 1 | 2-year unexpired term Tyson R.
Hill
Unopposed
(Nonpartisan)
Legal/Judicial Experience Currently serving as a Judge on Division III of the Court of Appeals. Previously served for 12+ years as a Superior and District Court Judge in Grant County. Other Professional Experience Deputy Prosecutor and Lead Appellate Attorney for the Grant County Prosecutor’s Office. Law Clerk for Justice Jim Johnson of the Washington State Supreme Court. Consultant and Staff Assistant for the U.S.-China Economic & Security Review Commission. Senate Finance Committee Intern. Education J.D. (2008) University of Washington School of Law. B.S. (2004) Brigham Young University. Community Service Guest lecturer at Big Bend Community College, local schools, and civic organizations. Church and community service. Statement I am so grateful to serve as a judge on Division III of the Court of Appeals. I have always been passionate about our justice system, despite its imperfections. In this new role, I review decisions from the trial court to ensure the law is followed. I have no agenda beyond that. Over the last 12+ years I served as a trial judge in Eastern Washington. I have witnessed how important each case is to the parties, law enforcement, victims, and the community. More than anything, these individuals want a judge who is impartial, takes their case seriously, and correctly applies the law. I continue to strive to be such a judge. I thank you for your prayers and support. Contact (509) 750-7176; tinman468@yahoo.com
Voter tip: Track your ballot status! Update your info to sign up for text notifications at VoteWA.gov. Or text VOTE to VOTEWA (868392).
Use a drop box! Ballots in a drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day are guaranteed on time.
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How is my ballot counted?
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Your county receives your ballot We recommend using a 24-hour ballot drop box before 8 p.m. on Election Day. It’s the fastest way to have your ballot received! Trained county election officials collect ballots from secure drop boxes and make sure your ballot is received on time.
Election staff will contact you before your ballot is processed if: • Your signature is missing • Your signature doesn’t match your voter registration record
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Envelopes and sleeves are separated The return envelope is opened and the security sleeve containing your ballot is removed. They are separated to ensure the secrecy of your vote.
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Your signature is verified Your signature is important and we need it to accept your ballot. The signature on your return envelope is compared to the signature on your voter registration record. If the signature matches, your ballot is accepted and you are credited for voting to ensure only one ballot is counted for you.
Security Sleeve
Your ballot is reviewed and scanned The ballot is removed from the security sleeve and election staff verify that it can be successfully scanned. Each voting system is certified and tested before every election.
Your ballot is counted After 8 p.m. on Election Day all scanned ballots are tallied. Ballots will be scanned and tallied over the next several days until all the votes are counted. Every county conducts a post-election audit.
Benton County
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Official Local Voters’ Pamphlet
GENERAL ELECTION NOVEMBER 3, 2026 Published by the Benton County Auditor
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NOVEMBER GENERAL ELECTION KEY DATES September 18 - Service and Overseas Ballots Mailed October 14 - Ballots Mailed October 26 - Online/Mail Voter Registration Deadline November 3 - In Person Voter Registration Deadline November 3 - General Election Day! November 5 - Random Batch Audit November 19 - Random Ballot Audit November 23 - Pre-Certification Day November 24 - Certification Day
CHECK THE STATUS OF YOUR BALLOT If you choose to mail your ballot, the USPS recommends domestic voters mail their ballots at least one week before Election Day to allow sufficient processing time. While the USPS tries to postmark all ballot envelopes, postmark dates may not match mailing dates due to processing delays. To guarantee your ballot receives an accurate postmark, you may have it hand cancelled at a Post Office retail counter free of charge. Tracking your ballot is easier than ever! Sign up for text notifications when you register or update your info. Text “VOTE” to 868392.
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
SAMPLE BALLOT The sample ballot for this election can be accessed on the Benton County elections website. www.bentoncountywa.gov/elections
WHO DONATES TO CAMPAIGNS? View information on financial contributors for federal candidates: Federal Election Commission - www.fec.gov - Toll Free 1 (800) 424-9530 View financial contributors for candidates and measures: Public Disclosure Commission - www.pdc.wa.gov - Toll Free 1 (877) 601-2828
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VOTING LOCATIONS Benton County Elections Center 7122 W. Okanogan Pl., Bldg. F, Kennewick October 14 - November 2 (8:30am - 4:30pm) November 3 - ELECTION DAY (8am - 8pm)
Prosser Courthouse 620 Market St., Prosser October 14 - November 2 (8:30am - 4:30pm) November 3 - ELECTION DAY (8am - 8pm)
Three Rivers Convention Center 7016 W. Grandridge Blvd., Kennewick October 27 - November 2 (8:30am - 4:30pm)
Saturday, October 31 (9am - 2pm) November 3 - ELECTION DAY (8am - 8pm) Local Voters’ Pamphlet
WSU Tri-Cities Student Engagement Hub 2770 Crimson Way, Richland Open November 2 (8am - 5pm) November 3 - ELECTION DAY (8am - 8pm)
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Benton County Assessor | 4-year term Bill No photo submitted
Spencer
Unopposed
(Prefers Republican Party)
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
No information submitted Contact (509) 440-2562; billspencerappraisal@gmail.com
Local Voters' Pamphlet These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.
Benton County Auditor | 4-year term Brenda
Chilton
49
Unopposed
(Prefers Republican Party)
Local Voters' Pamphlet These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
Elected Experience Benton County Auditor, 2010-present Other Professional Experience Chief Deputy Auditor, 2005-2009; Supervisor, Auditor’s Office, Benton County, 1998-2005; Paralegal, 1987-1998; Chair, Washington State Association of County Auditors Vehicle Licensing Committee; Member, Election Administration and Certification Board; Member, Voting Systems Review Board Education Graduate, Columbia Basin College; Certified Public Official, Washington State Association of Counties; Certified Election Administrator, State of Washington; Certified Elections/ Registration Administrator, The Election Center/Auburn University; Certified Licensing Operator, Department of Licensing Community Service Past President, Kiwanis Club of Atomic City; current member, Kiwanis Club of Tri-Cities Industry; Past President, Washington State Association of County Auditors; Past President, Tri-Cities Republican Women Statement For the past 28 years, it has been my honor to serve the citizens of Benton County, including the last 16 years as your County Auditor. I am proud to lead an exceptional team of dedicated public servants in the Auditor’s Office divisions of Elections, Recording, Accounting, and Licensing. Together, we remain committed to providing professional, transparent, efficient, and fiscally responsible service to our community. Election integrity and security remain among my highest priorities. Benton County voters deserve elections that are secure, accurate, transparent, and accountable. I remain committed to ensuring every lawful vote is counted accurately and securely. During my term, my team successfully opened the new Benton County Elections Center in collaboration with the Board of County Commissioners. Our office has continued investing in technology and modernization efforts to improve efficiency, security, and public access to services. We are nearing completion of a multi-year effort to digitize and preserve historical county records for future generations. I continue to serve in statewide leadership roles involving election administration and vehicle licensing. I look forward to continuing to serve the citizens of Benton County. Endorsed by the Benton County Republican Party. Contact (509) 366-3749; bchilton49@aol.com
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Benton County Clerk | 4-year term Josie
Delvin
Unopposed
(Prefers Republican Party)
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
Elected Experience No information submitted Other Professional Experience No information submitted Education No information submitted Community Service No information submitted Statement I have lived in Benton County for 40 years. I currently live in Richland with my husband, Jerome. I am honored to have been the County Clerk for the past 20 years. Prior to becoming the Clerk, I worked in Benton County District Court for 17 years. Over the past 4 years the clerks office has seen significant changes. We have secured a new office space on the 2nd floor of the Justice Center that allows us to better serve the public and affords privacy to the public when dealing with your cases. We have a larger jury assembly room that allows ease of access to potential jurors. I have upgraded the jury system, allowing electronic response by jurors. Our office now allows electronic filing of documents. We have securely digitized all of the superior court case paper documents and continue to audit for completeness and accuracy. We are currently working to digitize historical documents from microfilm. Our office continues to process hundreds of passport applications each year between our Prosser and Kennewick offices. I am excited to continue to serve in the capacity of County Clerk. Contact josie@owt.com
Local Voters' Pamphlet These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.
Benton County Commissioner | District 2 | 4-year term Michael
Alvarez
51
Unopposed
(Prefers Republican Party)
Local Voters' Pamphlet These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
Elected Experience Current Benton County Commissioner and Chairman of the Board, former Mayor and City Councilman for Richland Washington. Experienced in managing multi-million-dollar county and city budgets and serving on key boards including Benton County Emergency Services, Benton Franklin Health District Board, Economic Development and more. Other Professional Experience U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and 30-year mortgage company owner. Faculty Master Instructor teaching Finance, Business Management, Consumer Protection, and Ethics statewide. Member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and past Vice President for Boy Scouts funding development. Education Bachelor of Business Administration, Management NMSU. Community Service Community Service Award Recipient and active volunteer supporting youth, veterans, and family-focused programs. Statement I will continue using my Skills and Experience to improve the Quality of Life for our senior citizens, youth, families, and veterans. A county commissioner must be strong in Finance, Budgeting, Communication, and Personnel Management. I am the only candidate with the education and Extensive Financial and Business background needed to ensure taxpayer dollars are used responsibly and that taxes are not raised unnecessarily. I have a proven record of saving taxpayers millions of dollars each year. I strongly support our police officers and firefighters and work to ensure they have the tools and resources needed to provide exceptional public safety. I am honored to have strong support from both law enforcement and endorsed by local fire fighters. I have also built long-standing relationships with the local business community and remain committed to Smart, Sustainable Economic Development that benefits all residents. My pledge is to be Present, Accountable, and Transparent to everyone in Benton County. I have been married to my wife, Gina, for 36 years. We have two children, both graduates of Richland High School and Washington State University. Our family has proudly called Benton County home for 34 years. I am endorsed by the Benton County Republican Party. Contact (509) 531-1640; mike@votemike.com; votemike.com
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Benton County Coroner | 4-year term William “Bill”
Leach
Unopposed
(Prefers Republican Party)
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
Elected Experience Current elected Benton County Coroner. Other Professional Experience No information submitted Education No information submitted Community Service No information submitted Statement It has been an honor to have served as the Coroner for Benton County for the past two terms; I am excited for the opportunity to remain your Coroner. The population in Benton County has increased during the past eight years. During my time as Coroner, we have seen our calls for service nearly double and expect to see continuing increases. I am fortunate enough to have been able to hire a full-time forensic pathologist to conduct autopsies in house rather than having to travel hours away for an autopsy. As one of only two counties in Eastern Washington to have a staff forensic pathologist, we are able to contract with several counties to do autopsies, which generates revenue to offset Benton County’s costs. With the hard work of the staff, we have achieved IACME national accreditation. All staff are now State certified medicolegal death investigators. We will continue to work on modernizing the office and maintaining our professional standards to the highest level possible. Thank you for trusting me, and I look forward to serving you in the future. Contact (509) 430-0006; w_leach@ymail.com
Local Voters' Pamphlet These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.
Benton County Prosecuting Attorney | 4-year term Eric
Julie
(Prefers Republican Party)
(Prefers Republican Party)
Eisinger
Long
Elected Experience None Other Professional Experience I am an experienced trial Prosecutor. For 28 years, I have successfully prosecuted thousands of cases including aggravated first-degree murder, rape, arson, and drug trafficking. I also argued cases before the Court of Appeals and Washington State Supreme Court. I battled the war on drugs and gangs alongside the Tri-City Metro Drug Task Force, Kennewick Criminal Apprehension Team, and the Richland and Pasco Street Crimes Units. Education Bachelor of Arts, Law and Justice, Central Washington University, and Juris Doctor, Loyola University School of Law Community Service Volunteer at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, St. Joseph’s Catholic School, and Tri-Cities Prep Catholic High School Statement Benton County citizens deserve a Prosecutor armed with the experience and knowledge to uphold the Constitution and ensure justice is served. I have a proven record of asking for high bail and not plea bargaining with violent criminals. I aggressively prosecute drug trafficking and gang-related crimes to ensure a safe community. I will go to trial against those who falsely claim insanity to avoid responsibility. As the daughter of a Marine, I value our therapeutic and Veteran courts and support appropriate candidates for these programs. I will prioritize the office’s backlog of over 500 cases awaiting charging decisions so the victims finally have their day in court. I’m proud to work alongside our partners in law enforcement. I am trusted and endorsed by representatives of every division of the criminal justice system including retired Judge Carrie Runge; retired KPD Commanders Aaron Clem, BJ Moos, and Craig Littrell; retired RPD Command Staff Darryl Judge and Mike Cobb and Detectives Luke Flohr and Bob Benson; retired WRPD Chief Ben Majetich; BCSO Detectives Jordan Croskrey and Alejandro Betancourth and retired Sheriffs Larry Taylor and Steve Keane. I respectfully ask for your vote and would be honored to serve as your next Prosecuting Attorney. Contact Electjulielong@gmail.com; Longforprosecutor.com
Local Voters' Pamphlet These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
Elected Experience Benton County Prosecuting Attorney, 2023-Present. Other Professional Experience An experienced trial attorney with over 22 years of litigation experience, I have prosecuted thousands of cases, including homicides, drug offenses, and violent crimes. I was a senior partner at the Richland law firm Walker Heye (20102022) and a prosecutor for the City of Kennewick (20062010). I was president of the Benton Franklin Counties Bar Association (2016-2017). I serve on the board of directors of the Washington Association of Prosecuting Attorneys. Education University of Idaho College of Law, (J.D. 2003), Washington State University, (B.A., 1999). Community Service Volunteer, New Vintage Church, Richland. Pro Bono Attorney, You Medical, Kennewick. Statement Our nation was built on liberty, equality, and justice — and those principles only survive when leaders have the courage to defend them. As your Benton County Prosecuting Attorney, I have held offenders accountable, secured justice for victims, strengthened partnerships with law enforcement, and implemented tougher standards for violent crime to keep our community safe. Olympia continues to push policies that put criminals ahead of victims, weaken accountability, and tie the hands of law enforcement. We’ve all seen what happens when public safety is treated as an afterthought: businesses flee, families feel unsafe, and communities decline. That is not who we are, and I will not allow Benton County to become the next failed experiment in soft-on-crime policies. I will enforce the law according to our values, not Olympia’s agenda, by seeking appropriate bail and punishment, standing with victims, supporting law enforcement, and protecting your constitutional rights. I am endorsed by the Benton County Republican Party and Sheriff Mike Clark. I have a great working relationship with law enforcement. I love this county, I believe in its future, and I will continue fighting every day to keep it safe, strong, and free. I respectfully ask for your vote. www.ericforprosecutor.com Contact (509) 551-5800; ericforprosecutor@gmail.com; www.ericforprosecutor.com
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Benton County Sheriff | 4-year short & full term Michael (Mike)
Brad
(Prefers Republican Party)
(Prefers Republican Party)
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
Clark
Elected Experience Current Benton County Sheriff, leading 88 deputies and support staff, overseeing, and managing a multi million dollar budget, daily operations, public safety programs, hiring, promotions, long term safety strategies to ensure exceptional public safety here in Benton County. Other Professional Experience 23 Years with the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. I have advanced through almost every rank—Deputy, Corporal, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and your current Sheriff. My experience includes extensive law enforcement training, SWAT Team Leader, Incident Commander and much more. Education First Level Supervision, Middle Management, Critical Incident Management, Executive Academy. Community Service Kiwanis, Mustang Forces, Benton Franklin Behavioral Health Advisory Committee, Benton County Law & Justice Committee. Statement As the current Sheriff of Benton County, protecting your rights and ensuring Exceptional Public Safety remains my highest priority! Since taking office, local crime has continued to decline, and I am committed to building on that progress through strong partnerships with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. I will continue listening to the citizens of Benton County, taking a proactive, collaborative approach to reducing crime to ensure a safe, secure future for families in Benton County. With decades of experience and promotions through the ranks, I am the only candidate with the Proven Law Enforcement Leadership and Training needed to run a complex sheriff’s office. My wife, Kristen, and I along with our children and grandchildren are lifelong Benton County residents. As your Sheriff, I will continue working diligently to keep Benton County safe while honoring the traditional, family oriented values that define our community. I am the only candidate endorsed by the following: Benton County Republican Party, Mayors of Kennewick, Richland, West Richland, Prosser, Benton City and Pasco, along with all three Benton County Commissioners, Benton County Prosecutor, several state representatives, and numerous law enforcement professionals! I am respectfully asking for your vote on Election Day. Thank you! Contact (509) 542-7785; mike@mikeclark4sheriff.com; mikeclark4sheriff.com
Klippert
Elected Experience 14 years served in the Washington State House of Representatives. First year serving as a member of the Kennewick City Council. Other Professional Experience As a teacher I have taught every grade level from 1st grade to currently teaching at the college level. Education Bachelors Degree: double major Biblical Studies and Behavioral Science. Masters Degree in Teaching. Graduate Central Washington University’s Paramedic Program, Columbia Basin College: Emergency Medical Technician. Community Service 30+ years uniformed military service: U.S. Army, Reserve and National Guard. Helicopter pilot, 06/COL Commander Washington State Guard. 33+ years law enforcement / Sheriff’s Deputy. Statement I believe in God, the Constitution, and the responsibility we all share to protect our families and communities. The Sheriff’s Office should be built on trust, honesty, and service to the people. As your Sheriff, I will defend the rights of citizens, support our law enforcement officers, and work every day to keep Benton County safe; because Benton County is more than a place to live — it is our home. I have seen firsthand the dedication and sacrifice made by the men and women who serve this county. They deserve leadership that supports them, equips them, and stands beside them. I also believe citizens deserve transparency, fairness, and a Sheriff who listens to their concerns. My commitment is simple: protect our communities, uphold the law fairly, and preserve the freedoms that make Benton County a great place to live and raise a family. We will not allow crime, fear, or government overreach to weaken the values that make this county strong. Ready to lead, ready to serve and protect Benton County. Contact (509) 378-9100; bradklippert4sheriff@gmail.com; bradklippert4sheriff.com
Local Voters' Pamphlet These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.
Benton County Treasurer | 4-year term Kenneth
Spencer Jr
55
Unopposed
(Prefers Republican Party)
Local Voters' Pamphlet These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
Elected Experience Benton County Treasurer since 2017, PCO in Benton County since 2012. Other Professional Experience College Professor 20 years, Commercial Appraiser 55 years, County Supervisor 4 years. General Manager and CFO of three private business. Education BS Agricultural Management Cal Poly SLO, Graduate School WSU, CWU, EWU. Community Service Boy Scout leader 35 years, Soccer coach both youth and college. Eagle Scout Award. Statement The most important function of the Treasurer’s office is safeguarding public funds. With the help and hard work of my dedicated, professional staff we have and will continue to strive to provide the best service to you, our taxpayers. Another function of the Benton County Treasurer’s office is that we are the Bank for the county and other groups that fall under the County umbrella. With the addition of several new software packages within the county the efficiency of these packages will help us to achieve office efficiencies. These programs were developed to make ours a more efficient, and more automated office. We are working to make the investments of the funds that are entrusted to us earn the best and safest return. I have the desire and resolve to see the Treasurer’s office achieve greater efficiencies and enhance the services we provide to the taxpayers as well as the other government offices that we serve. My goal is to build on these recent achievements and continue to strive for Benton County to have one of the most efficient county treasurer operations in the country. Endorsed by the Benton County Republican Party. Contact (509) 845-0481
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Benton County District Court Judge 1 | 4-year term Talesha
Michael “Mike”
(Nonpartisan)
(Nonpartisan)
Legal/Judicial Experience Adult Protective Services Attorney; Title 11 Court Visitor; District Court Judge Pro Tem; Prosecutor; Public Defender; Private practice for 25 years; County Bar Association Trustee. Other Professional Experience Nurse; Respiratory Therapist; Emergency Medical Technician; Army Veteran; PFLAG President. Education Law degree from Gonzaga University; Bachelor’s degree in Arts and Social Sciences from Washington State University; Associate degree in Respiratory Therapy/Nursing from Walla Walla Community College Community Service YWCA Domestic Violence Shelter; Benton-Franklin County Legal Aid Society; Various County Bar Associations; Assisting youth and the public through PFLAG, Pride Foundation, and free legal clinics; Veteran’s Court Mentor; Office of Military and Veterans Legal Assistance. Statement I have always made it my priority to serve the public and advocate for the disadvantaged. I have practiced in the areas of civil, criminal and administrative law. I have worked in private practice and as a prosecutor in both District and Superior Courts. I have worked for DSHS in protecting vulnerable adults from different forms of abuse and as a Title 11 Court Visitor. I have volunteered countless hours in legal clinics in the area by assisting individuals in need of legal assistance. I have been a Judge Pro Tem for King County District Court since 2015. Because of my diverse legal background combined with my many years of community service, I would be a well prepared and effective Judge. I would uphold the law and would not legislate any personal agenda. I feel that a Judge should be knowledgeable and experienced in all matters before them. A Judge should possess humility, a positive demeanor and temperament, and treat all those who come before the bench with respect and fairness regardless of their social or economic backgrounds. A Judge should never put their own interests before those of the court or the public for which they serve. Contact (509) 599-6811; electsams@gmail.com
Legal/Judicial Experience Judge Pro-Tem Franklin County District Court; Hearing Examiner Benton City; Partner Rio Foltz; Bell, Brown, & Rio; Contract City Prosecutor, Prosser, Richland, West Richland, Pasco, College Place, Othello; Contract District Court Prosecutor, Franklin County 2025; Adams County 2026; Spokane County Deputy Prosecutor. Other Professional Experience Adjunct Professor Paralegal Program Charter College; Adjunct Professor WSU Tri-Cities Business Law; CJTC SE Regional Law Enforcement Academy Instructor; Member United States Patent Bar Education BA Molecular Biology, University of Montana; Juris Doctor, Gonzaga Law School; Master of Laws Intellectual Property, University of Houston Community Service NCFCA speech and debate judge; Liberty Christian School Volunteer; Handford High Career Exploration Day Volunteer Statement Consistent. Experienced. Principled. An exemplary judge must be impartial, maintain order, protect the victims and community, and the rights of the accused. After more than twenty years of dedication as your local prosecutor, I will be fair, firm, and follow the rule of law in serving as your district court judge. My extensive district court experience has earned respect among the judiciary, prosecutors, defense attorneys and law enforcement. I am endorsed by current Benton County Prosecutor, Eric Eisinger, former Benton County Prosecutor, Andy Miller, all Benton-Franklin Superior Court Judges, a majority of Benton County District Court Judges, many members of local law enforcement, and local attorneys. I have dedicated 21 years of my legal career to the betterment and safety of the Tri-Cities community. Our communities expect safe neighborhoods and accountability when laws are broken. Public trust in the justice system depends on consistency, professionalism, and judges who are prepared and impartial. I am devoted to this purpose and will work hard to maintain these principles. My wife, Carrie Sue, and I are grateful to be raising our three sons in Benton County. I am committed to ensuring your vote for me will contribute to a safe and law-abiding community. Contact (509) 554-9446; rioforjudge@gmail.com; rioforjudge.com
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
Sams
Rio
Local Voters' Pamphlet These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.
Benton County District Court Judge 2 | 4-year term James “Jim”
Bell
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Unopposed
(Nonpartisan)
Local Voters' Pamphlet These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
Legal/Judicial Experience Judge, Benton County District Court 2021-present; Partner, Bell, Brown & Rio Law Offices 2009-2021; Owner, Law Office of James Bell 2007-2009; Associate Attorney, Roach & Petersen Law Office 2002-2007; Franklin County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney 1994-2002. Other Professional Experience Legal Counsel, Greater Columbia Behavioral Health 20092021; Judge Pro Tem, Benton County and Franklin County District Courts. Education University of Puget Sound School of Law (Now Seattle University School of Law) J.D. 1992, Brigham Young University, B.S. Accounting 1988. Community Service Board of Trustee’s, Greater Tri-Cities YMCA 2000-present. Served as YMCA Board President 2006-2009. YMCA Volunteer of the Year 1999. Statement District Court is a high-volume court, and the court most residents are likely to interact with. It requires a judge who thinks quickly and decisively but also with compassion and empathy. Judge Bell has those qualities and the experience, knowledge, personality, and temperament necessary to be effective. He understands that most people just want a chance to be heard and be treated fairly in a stressful system. Judge Bell was appointed as a District Court Judge in May 2021, was elected to the same position in November of 2022, and continues to serve with thoughtfulness while fostering justice and accountability. In addition to his many duties, Judge Bell oversees Mental Health Court, working to help people better their lives and continue on the road to success and happiness. Judge Bell and his wife of 40 years, Cindy, have made the Tri-Cities their home since 1994 raising their three now adult children, all living and working in the Tri-Cities with one grandson and one granddaughter. Judge Bell loves being involved with his family, being active in his church and being a part of this community. He is honored to serve Benton County and is looking forward to continuing to do so. Contact (509) 947-5808; jcqlcbell@msn.com
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Benton County District Court Judge 3 | 4-year term Dan No photo submitted
Kathren
Unopposed
(Nonpartisan)
No information submitted Contact (509) 554-1877
Benton County District Court Judge 4 | 4-year term Jennifer
Johnson
Unopposed
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
(Nonpartisan)
Legal/Judicial Experience In 2007 I started my career as a deputy prosecuting attorney for Benton County. Later I worked as a criminal defense attorney. For 10 years I worked as judge pro tempore in our local district and municipal courts. Since January 2025 I have worked as a commissioner in Benton County District Court. Other Professional Experience No information submitted Education I graduated from Kennewick High School in 2000, Seattle Pacific University in 2024, and Gonzaga Law School in 2027. Community Service For the last 10 years I have served on the Board of Directors for The Children’s Reading Foundation of the Mid-Columbia. Statement I am honored to serve as Benton County District Court Judge Position 4. I believe my years of experience in a variety of roles has prepared me well for this position. My husband and I have three teenagers and stay very active with their school, sports, and 4-H activities. I am a proud Tri-Citian and look forward to serving my community with fairness and integrity. Contact (509) 539-7631; jabersfeller@hotmail.com
Local Voters' Pamphlet These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.
Benton County District Court Judge 5 | 4-year term Jennifer M. (Lampson) No photo submitted
Azure
59
Unopposed
(Nonpartisan)
No information submitted Contact (509) 619-5800; Jenn@electjenn.com
These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
Local Voters' Pamphlet
60 Benton County Public Utility District Commissioner | Position 2 | 6-year term Roy C. “Dewey”
Micah
(Nonpartisan)
(Nonpartisan)
Elected Experience West Benton Fire and Rescue, Appointed Commissioner Other Professional Experience Senior executive in agricultural operations; managed more than $70 million in annual operating and capital budgets across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and California. President, Columbia Snake River Irrigators Association. Principal, Holliday Management Consulting LLC. Accredited Farm Manager. Education Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Oregon State University Community Service Former firefighter, paramedic, lieutenant, paramedic instructor, and President of IAFF Local 4366. Active in Benton County agricultural, water, and public-service communities Statement Benton County’s economy runs on water and electricity. Farms, businesses, families, schools, and public services across District 2 depend on reliable, affordable power. Those of us who work in agriculture understand how quickly power reliability and rate decisions affect pumps, pivots, processing, jobs, and the broader local economy. I am running for Benton PUD Commissioner because this position requires practical leadership, disciplined financial oversight, and an understanding of how utility decisions affect ratepayers. As a senior executive in agricultural operations, I managed more than $70 million in annual operating and capital budgets across large-scale farming operations in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and California. That work required long-term infrastructure planning, risk management, capital discipline, and operational accountability. Through my service with the Columbia Snake River Irrigators Association, I have worked on regional issues involving irrigation, hydropower, water reliability, and the relationship between energy policy and agriculture. I also bring public governance experience from my appointed service as a Commissioner with West Benton Fire and Rescue. Benton PUD is a strong public utility. The next commissioner should build on that strength with a focus on reliable service, responsible infrastructure investment, transparency, and protecting the long-term interests of ratepayers. I would appreciate your vote. Contact holliday4pud@gmail.com; hollidayforpud.com
Elected Experience Serving my second 4-year term on the Kennewick School Board of Directors Other Professional Experience Eagle Scout, LDS Mission, Sales and Marketing Manager Pro Roofing NW Inc.; National Director of Client Acquisition for Social Rocketship; Washington State Area Rep for Complete Merchant Solutions; Owner Ascend, LLC; Ramp, LLC, Lawn Aerating & Thatching, LLC, 4 Peaks Restoration Education Elma HS, Elma, WA 1997; Clark College; Southern Virginia University B.A. Business Management & Spanish Community Service Coach through various clubs and programs. Actively engaged in a variety of youth programs for the community and church, such as Shoe Box Toy Drives, Christmas Dinner Drives, Blood Drives, etc. Statement Vote Valentine! A proven leader who gets things done and stands for local control. Olympia is pushing destructive political energy policies onto Eastern Washington. These mandates threaten our grid, raise costs, and ignore the engineering realities that keep our lights on. We need local leadership to protect our region from decisions by people who don’t understand, or care about, how our region actually works. As a Kennewick School Board Director, I helped oversee a $330 million budget while our district earned the highest financial rating in Washington State. I helped create a firewall that kept political ideology out of our classrooms, restored focus on core education, improved safety, and delivered strong financial leadership. Now it’s time to bring that same results-driven approach to Benton PUD. I stand firmly for reliable, affordable local power. I support protecting our dams, expanding nuclear energy, and keeping rates low for families, farms, and businesses. I oppose forcing our region to rely on wind and solar that weaken the grid and leave us vulnerable in emergencies. Eastern Washington deserves energy policy based on engineering and common sense, not politics. If you believe local communities should control their future instead of out-of-touch Olympia mandates, Vote Valentine! Contact (425) 448-2525; Micah@micahvalentine.com; www.micahvalentine.us
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
Holliday
Valentine
Local Voters' Pamphlet These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.
City of Richland | Council Pos. 4 | 3-year unexpired term Kyle
Saltz
Mary S.
Lipton
(Nonpartisan) Elected Experience Elected to the American Association for the Advancement of Science Biology Section Steering committee and the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Public Affairs Advisory Committee, Orchard Hills HOA Secretary Other Professional Experience Staff Scientist; PNNL Adjunct Professor; WSU Small Business Owner Education Ph.D; Biochemistry South Carolina: Community Service Various RSD PTO/Bomber Boosters/Richland Band member; Mid Columbia Ballet volunteer; Various sports teams coach and coordinators; Math is Cool coach; Judge for School and Mid Columbia Science Fairs; Active member of Richland Lutheran Church Statement For more than 30 years, Richland has been my home. I have raised my family here, participated in our schools and community organizations, and watched our city grow into the vibrant and thriving community it is today. My professional background in science, education, and small business ownership has given me the ability to evaluate complex issues, communicate clearly, and make thoughtful, evidencebased decisions. Throughout my years of community involvement, I have learned the value of collaboration, transparency, and respectful dialogue. I believe the City’s priorities should include managing growth and infrastructure responsibly, supporting economic stability and workforce development, and protecting public safety, parks, riverfront access, and community resources for future generations. I understand the importance of balancing responsible growth with preserving the character, quality of life, and environmental resources that make Richland unique. I am seeking to serve on the Richland City Council because I care deeply about our community and believe in leadership grounded in integrity, accountability, social responsibility, and fiscal stewardship. As a Council Member, I will listen carefully, work collaboratively, and remain committed to making decisions that reflect the needs and values of the Richland community today and into the future. Contact (509) 539-8385; mary.lipton13@gmail.com
Local Voters' Pamphlet These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
(Nonpartisan) Elected Experience 12 years elected leadership of the Richland Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). 5 years elected commander. Other Professional Experience Served 11 years as an active-duty Army Counterintelligence Agent. Still serving in the Army Reserve since 2023-present. Hanford Patrol from 2017-present on the Tactical Response Team. Education 2 Master’s Degrees (Criminal Justice, Liberal Arts with focus in Politics/History). Graduate of the Defense Language Institute. Community Service VFW Honor guard for funerals, events, and educational activities. Provides K9 therapy for Kadlec Hospital, Love on a Leash, and VFW which visits Hospitals, Memory Care Centers, assisted living facilities, and retirement homes. Veterans Therapeutic Courts Mentor of Benton County. Statement I joined the Army after witnessing the attacks of September 11th as a high school senior. I served for 11 years as a Counterintelligence Agent, including multiple deployments to Afghanistan. That experience taught me discipline, accountability, and servant leadership. After returning home, I continued serving our community through the VFW, supporting Veterans Court programs that help rehabilitate struggling veterans, and volunteering alongside my therapy dog at Kadlec Hospital for patients, families, and staff. I am running for Richland City Council because local government should focus on practical solutions, responsible spending, safe neighborhoods, and removing unnecessary bureaucracy. I have already identified outdated municipal codes and inefficiencies that can be improved to better serve taxpayers and residents. We need to not only balance our budget but create a surplus while reducing taxes on an overburdened population. This is a nonpartisan race, and I believe leadership should focus less on politics and more on people. At the VFW, we check politics at the door and take care of people. That is exactly how I will serve on City Council. I refuse to profit from the city council work which is why I will donate my paychecks to local charities. We can do this! Contact (910) 578-6652; Kylesaltzforrichlandcitycouncil@yahoo.com; Kylesaltz.com
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City of Benton City | Proposition No. 1
City of Benton City
Proposition No. 1
ADOPTION OF THE COUNCIL-MANAGER FORM OF GOVERNMENT The City Council for Benton City adopted Resolution 2026-49 concerning a change to the City’s form of government. This proposition would abandon the current mayor-council form of government under Chapter 35A.12 RCW and adopt the councilmanager form of government under Chapters 35A.06 and 35A.13 RCW, effective March 1, 2027. Said adoption would not affect the City’s continuing status as a Code City governed under Title 35A RCW.
Explanatory Statement Prepared by the City of Benton City
The City of Benton City is currently a non-charter code city organized under the Mayor-Council form of government as provided in RCW 35A. l 2. The elected Mayor is the chief administrative officer. Approval of the ballot measure will change Benton City to a non-charter code city organized under the Council-Manager form of government as provided in RCW 35A. 13. As such, the elected Council will select a professional manager to be the chief administrative officer of the City. The Council selects a Mayor from among the Council to preside at Council Meetings and as the ceremonial head of the City.
Should this proposition be approved? [ ] Yes [ ] No
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
The Official Ballot title was written by the City of Benton City as required by law. The Benton County Auditor is not responsible for the content of arguments or statements.
Committee & Contact Information Pro Committee
Committee & Contact Information Con Committee
David Sandretto Steve Zetz Charles Dorendorf
After repeated recruitment attempts, no volunteers came forward to write a statement against the ballot measure.
Committee Contact: (509) 380-4152 dave.sandretto@gmail.com
City of Benton City | Proposition No. 1
Argument For
Argument Against
It is no secret that our legislators in Olympia have been working overtime for decades, crafting and passing new regulations. Washington is ranked eighth for restrictive regulations, with over 200,000 restrictions contained in current state codes. The Strong-Mayor form of government relies on a local resident to have the knowledge and skill set to manage and implement these rules. Previous administrations have failed to navigate these regulations, resulting in the mismanagement of funds, lost development opportunities, and chaos among residents and business owners. A change in government is necessary to ensure that a professional manager, under the direction of the City Council, will guide Benton City through the era of over-regulation and taxation that our state currently finds itself in. While this is not an increase in taxes it will replace the Mayors position with a full-time employee. While this does add additional payroll expenses those costs are significantly overshadowed by the benefits. It is this committee’s sincerest hope that someday Washington State will return to a place of common-sense regulations, and that small cities may return to a strong-Mayor form of government. But until that day arrives, Benton City cannot afford to operate without professional and experienced leadership.
No statement submitted.
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Local Voters’ Pamphlet
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City of Benton City | Proposition No. 2
City of Benton City
Proposition No. 2 COMMUNITY SAFETY LEVY LID LIFT The City Council for Benton City adopted Resolution 2026-50 to restore the property tax levy rate for community safety. If approved, this proposition would fund law and code enforcement community safety efforts by restoring Benton City’s levy rate to $1.60 per $1,000.00 of assessed value for collection in 2027; with annual increases in 2028-2036 based on the Consumer Price Index, Western Region never exceeding $1.60 per $1,000.00 of assessed value for each of the nine succeeding years. The 2036 levy amount shall be used to calculate subsequent levy limits under Chapter 84.55 RCW.
Explanatory Statement Prepared by the City of Benton City
If enacted, this proposition would authorize the City of Benton City to return its regular property tax levy to $1.60 per $1,000.00 assessed valuation in 2026 for 2027 collection; and authorize setting a limit factor of 100% plus the annual percentage increase in Consumer Price Index For All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) for the Western Region never exceeding $1.60 per $1,000.00 assessed valuation for each of the nine succeeding years. The 2036 levy amount shall be used to calculate subsequent levy limits under Chapter 84.55 RCW. This would enable the City to continue to maintain and dedicate proceeds to community safety funding for law enforcement and code enforcement.
Should this proposition be approved? [ ] Yes [ ] No
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
The Official Ballot title was written by the City of Benton City as required by law. The Benton County Auditor is not responsible for the content of arguments or statements.
Committee & Contact Information Pro Committee
Committee & Contact Information Con Committee
Len Burton David Sandretto
After repeated recruitment attempts, no volunteers came forward to write a statement against the ballot measure.
Committee Contact: (509) 521-2003 fishingls@hotmail.com
City of Benton City | Proposition No. 2
Argument For
Argument Against
In 2027, Benton City will pay $456,806 for Sheriff’s Office services and another $230,554 for code enforcement. That’s $699,280 just to keep basic public safety running. In 2027, Benton City will receive about $301,474 in property-taxes creating a $397,806 shortfall—a gap so large that Benton City will have to make difficult choices.
No statement submitted.
65
This problem gets worse every year. The Sheriff’s contract rises 3% annually, while state law limits Benton City to only a 1% increase in property-tax revenue. As costs continue to rise faster than revenue, the funding gap grows larger each year. A levy lid lift would add about $400,000 in property-tax revenue, providing enough to cover the costs of public safety services. Without it, the city will have to make hard decisions that could reduce public safety, slow response times, and weaken code enforcement efforts. State law is clear: Benton City must pay for police and code enforcement from general tax revenue. Water and sewer funds cannot be used for these services. There is no backup source of money. The proposed levy lift does not create new programs or expand services. It maintains the services Benton City residents rely on: deputies patrolling neighborhoods, responding to 911 calls, and code enforcement addressing city safety issues. The levy lift is modest, predictable, and accountable to voters. It gives Benton City the ability to keep the police protection and code enforcement needed to protect our neighborhoods. A Yes vote maintains community safety and keeps Benton City strong for the future.
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
66
Kiona-Benton City School District No. 52 | Proposition No. 1
Kiona-Benton City School District No. 52
Proposition No. 1 EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS AND OPERATION REPLACEMENT LEVY The Board of Directors of Kiona-Benton City School District No. 52 adopted Resolution No. 6-2026, concerning a proposition to finance educational programs and operation expenses. This proposition would authorize the District to levy the following excess taxes, in place of an expired levy, on all taxable property within the District, for educational programs and operation expenses not funded by the State (including athletics, the arts, technology support, class sizes, nurses, counselors, safety and security, advanced courses, and extracurricular activities): Collection Year 2027 2028
Estimated Levy Rate/$ 1,000 Assessed Value $1.30 $1.30
Levy Amount $2,208,341 $2,318,758
all as provided in Resolution No. 6-2026. Should this proposition be approved?
Explanatory Statement Prepared by Kiona-Benton School District No. 52
Passage of Proposition No. 1 would allow KionaBenton City School District to replace an expired educational programs and operation levy. The replacement levy will be used to pay for expenses of educational programs and operation that are not fully funded by the State of Washington. These expenses include, but are not limited to: athletics, the arts, technology support, class sizes, nurses, counselors, safety and security, advanced courses, and extracurricular activities. The levy, together with state levy equalization money that is contingent on levy passage, will provide approximately 11% of the District’s annual General Fund budget. Further information is available at: www.kibesd.org. The proposed replacement levy would authorize the collection of up to $2,208,341 in 2027 and $2,318,758 in 2028. The levy rate required to produce these levy amounts is estimated to be $1.30 per $1,000 of assessed value. The exact levy rates and amounts to be collected may be adjusted based upon the actual assessed value of property and the limitations imposed by State law at the time of the levy. Exemptions from taxes may be available to certain homeowners. To determine if you qualify, contact the Benton County Assessor at 509-786-2046.
[ ] Levy Yes [ ] Levy No
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
The Official Ballot title was written by the Kiona-Benton City School Disrict No. 52 as required by law. The Benton County Auditor is not responsible for the content of arguments or statements.
Committee & Contact Information Pro Committee
Committee & Contact Information Con Committee
Mike Peterson
After repeated recruitment attempts, no volunteers came forward to write a statement against the ballot measure.
Committee Contact: (503) 374-8158 Oregonmikep@gmail.com
Kiona-Benton City School District No. 52 | Proposition No. 1
Argument For
Argument Against
The Ki-Be School District Levy failed twice, and no one is better for it. Those levy failures have impacted the district, parents, staff and especially the students.
No information submitted.
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This year we can return support to this generation of Ki-Be students by passing the $1.30/thousand levy. Based on an average Benton County property value of $443,267, the levy will cost property owners $576.00, that’s an average of $11.00 per week. For that $11.00 per week, we would return school counselors, support positions, athletic event transportation and a memorable school experience to our students. We have cut over $3.00 million from the Ki-Be operating budget in the past 2 years and all our students are suffering for it. Many make this about topics other than the students, and the School Board is working hard to listen to our parents, community members and students – working towards transparency, consistency and open communication. The cuts to the 2026-2027 budget were difficult and heartbreaking, we lost outstanding teachers and students have left the district due to those cuts. We can reverse that direction by passing this 2-year levy – we can begin building back our Benton City community and the Ki-Be School District spirit. We can create lasting memories for every student and enrich their lives with a great small-town educational experience. Take time to reflect on your vote and what has always made Benton City and Ki-Be Schools special – a Yes vote will make a difference for every student.
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
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BALLOT DROP BOXES
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
Location
Address
City
Drive Up?
Prosser Courthouse
620 Market St.
Prosser
No
Benton City City Hall
1009 Dale Ave.
Benton City
No
Kennewick City Hall
524 S. Auburn St.
Kennewick
Yes
Southridge Sports Complex
2901 Southridge Blvd.
Kennewick
Yes
Finley Middle School
37208 S. Finley Rd.
Kennewick
Yes
Benton County Campus
7122 W. Okanogan Pl.
Kennewick
Yes
Benton County Elections Center
7122 W. Okanogan Pl. Bldg. F
Kennewick
No
Badger Mountain Community Park
350 Keene Rd.
Richland
No
Jefferson Park
100 Symons St
Richland
Yes
WSU-Tri Cities
2770 Crimson Way
Richland
Yes
West Richland Library
3803 W. Van Giesen St.
West Richland
Yes
West Richland City Hall
3100 Belmont Blvd.
West Richland
Yes
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Local Voters’ Pamphlet
70
BENTON COUNTY HISTORY Did you know.... Benton County was founded on March 8, 1905 Benton County was named after Senator Thomas Hart Benton The influx of 51,000 construction workers in 1943 made Hanford the 4th largest "city" in Washington State and the largest voting precinct in the United States. The Columbia River forms Benton County’s north, south, and east borders, making it one of the few U.S. counties bordered almost entirely by a single river. Benton County covers about 1,760 square miles, roughly the size of Rhode Island and half of Connecticut combined. Rattlesnake Mountain, located in Benton County, is one of the tallest treeless mountains in the Northern Hemisphere, reaching 3,527 feet. Our County operates ten park units comprising over 2,000 acres of recreation and conservation area. Local Voters’ Pamphlet
The tallest spot in the County is Rattlesnake Mountain and the lowest spot is near Crow Butte
71
VOTING IS FUN!
Local Voters’ Pamphlet
Initiative Measure IP26-645
72
How do I read measure text? Language in double parentheses with a line through it is existing state law; it will be taken out of the law if this measure is approved by voters. ((sample of text to be deleted)) Underlined language does not appear in current state law but will be added to the law if this measure is approved by voters. sample of text to be added
Complete Text
Initiative Measure No. IP26-645 AN ACT Relating to taxes, repealing chapter 238, Laws of 2026, and prohibiting taxes on individual income; adding a new chapter to Title 82 RCW; creating new sections; repealing 2026 c 238 ss 101, 102, 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 301, 302, 303, 304, 305, 306, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 312, 313, 314, 315, 316, 401, 402, 403, 404, 405, 406, 407, 501, 502, 601, 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708, 709, 710, 711, 712, 801, 802, 803, 804, 805, 806, 807, 808, 809, 810, 811, 812, 813, 814, and 1201; and repealing 2026 c 238 ss 1, 1203, 1208, 1209, and 1210 (uncodified). BE IT ENACTED BY THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON: NEW SECTION. Sec. 1. The people find that for nearly a century Washington courts have held that income is property subject to ownership under the state’s Constitution. Income therefore cannot be taxed unless it meets all constitutional requirements for property taxes including a uniform rate not exceeding 1 percent. The people further find that Washington voters have soundly rejected 10 attempts to impose a statewide income tax. The people also find that the Washington legislature has ignored the Constitution and the people’s will to enact an unconstitutional income tax. To reinstate the will of the people, this measure would repeal a state tax on the receipt of individual income; define income for tax purposes; and prohibit any tax on, or measured by, individual income regardless of source. NEW SECTION. Sec. 2. The following acts or parts of acts are each repealed: (1) 2026 c 238 s 1 (uncodified); (2) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 101; (3) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 102; (4) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 201; (5) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 202; (6) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 203; (7) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 204; (8) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 205; (9) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 206; (10) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 301; (11) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 302;
(12) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 303; (13) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 304; (14) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 305; (15) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 306; (16) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 307; (17) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 308; (18) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 309; (19) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 310; (20) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 311; (21) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 312; (22) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 313; (23) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 314; (24) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 315; (25) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 316; (26) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 401; (27) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 402; (28) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 403; (29) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 404; (30) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 405; (31) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 406; (32) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 407; (33) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 501; (34) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 502; (35) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 601; (36) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 701; (37) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 702; (38) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 703; (39) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 704; (40) 2026 c 238 s 705; (41) 2026 c 238 s 706; (42) 2026 c 238 s 707; (43) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 708; (44) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 709; (45) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 710; (46) RCW 74.20A.--- and 2026 c 238 s 711; (47) RCW 82A.--.--- and 2026 c 238 s 712; (48) 2026 c 238 s 801; (49) 2026 c 238 s 802; (50) 2026 c 238 s 803; (51) 2026 c 238 s 804; (52) 2026 c 238 s 805; (53) 2026 c 238 s 806; (54) 2026 c 238 s 807; (55) 2026 c 238 s 808; (56) 2026 c 238 s 809; (57) 2026 c 238 s 810; (58) 2026 c 238 s 811; (59) 2026 c 238 s 812; (60) 2026 c 238 s 813; (61) 2026 c 238 s 814; (62) 2026 c 238 s 1201; (63) 2026 c 238 s 1203 (uncodified); (64) 2026 c 238 s 1208 (uncodified); (65) 2026 c 238 s 1209 (uncodified); and (66) 2026 c 238 s 1210 (uncodified). NEW SECTION. Sec. 3. DEFINITIONS. The definitions in this section apply throughout Title 82 RCW unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
Initiative Measure IP26-645 | Initiative Measure IL26-001 (1) “Income” means any gain or benefit measured in money derived from an individual’s capital, labor, property, or other source. (2) “Individual” means a natural person. NEW SECTION. Sec. 4. PROHIBITING TAXES ON INDIVIDUAL INCOME. (1) No tax may be imposed on individual income, the receipt of individual income, or measured by an individual’s income, regardless of the source. (2) Income is subject to individual ownership. (3) The prohibition in this section applies to the state, counties, cities, and all other local jurisdictions in the state of Washington. NEW SECTION. Sec. 5. Sections 3 and 4 of this act constitute a new chapter in Title 82 RCW. NEW SECTION. Sec. 6. Sections 3 and 4 of this act are to be liberally construed to prohibit any form of individual income tax. NEW SECTION. Sec. 7. If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected. --- END ---
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Initiative Measure No. IL26-001 AN ACT Relating to the Washington parents’ bill of rights; amending RCW 28A.605.005; and creating new sections. BE IT ENACTED BY THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON: Sec. 1. RCW 28A.605.005 and 2025 c 369 s 501 are each amended to read as follows: (1) Subsections 2 through 5 of this section reinstate Initiative 2081’s laws guaranteeing parents’ rights, including reviewing their children’s instructional materials, accessing their school records, being notified when medical services are provided, and opting-out-of certain classes. Voter approval of this initiative provides two years of constitutional protection from legislative interference, which reinforces Initiative 2081’s laws guaranteeing parents’ rights. (2) The people find that: (a) Parents are the primary stakeholders in their children’s upbringing; (b) parental involvement is a significant factor in increasing student achievement; and (c) access to student information encourages greater parental involvement. (3) Parents and legal guardians of public school children younger than 18 years old have all of the following rights: (a) To examine the textbooks, curriculum, and supplemental material used in their child’s classroom; (b)(i) To inspect their child’s public school records in accordance with RCW 28A.605.030, and to receive a copy of their child’s records within 10 business days of submitting a written request, either electronically or on paper. (ii) Parents or legal guardians must not be required to appear in person for the purposes of requesting or validating a request for their child’s public school records. (iii) No charge may be imposed on a parent or legal guardian to receive such records electronically. Any charges for a paper copy of such records must be reasonable and set forth in the official policies and procedures of the school district. (iv) Public school records include all of the following: (A) Academic records including, but not limited to, test and assessment scores in accordance with RCW 28A.230.195; (B) Medical or health records; (C) Records of any mental health counseling; (D) Records of any vocational counseling; (E) Records of discipline, including expulsions and suspensions under RCW 28A.600.015; (F) Records of attendance, including unexcused absences in accordance with RCW 28A.225.020; (G) Records associated with a child’s screening for learning challenges, exceptionalities, plans for an individualized education program, or plan adopted under section 504 of the rehabilitation act of 1973; and (H) Any other student-specific files, documents, or
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other materials that are maintained by the public school; (c) To receive prior notification when medical services are being offered to their child, except where emergency medical treatment is required. In cases where emergency medical treatment is required, the parent and legal guardian must be notified as soon as practicable after the treatment is rendered; (d) To receive notification when any medical service or medications have been provided to their child that could result in any financial impact to the parent’s or legal guardian’s health insurance payments or copays; (e) To receive notification when the school has arranged directly or indirectly for medical treatment that results in follow-up care beyond normal school hours. Follow-up care includes monitoring the child for aches and pains, medications, medical devices such as crutches, and emotional care needed for the healing process; (f) To receive immediate notification if a criminal action is deemed to have been committed against their child or by their child; (g) To receive immediate notification if law enforcement personnel question their child, except in cases where the parent or legal guardian has been accused of abusing or neglecting the child; (h) To receive immediate notification if their child is taken or removed from the public school campus without parental permission, including to stay at a youth shelter or “host home” as defined in RCW 74.15.020; (i) To receive assurance their child’s public school will not discriminate against their child based upon the sincerely held religious beliefs of the child’s family in accordance with chapter 28A.642 RCW; (j) To receive written notice and the option to opt their child out of any surveys, assignments, questionnaires, role-playing activities, recordings of their child, or other student engagements that include questions about any of the following: (i) The child’s sexual experiences or attractions; (ii) The child’s family beliefs, morality, religion, or political affiliations; (iii) Any mental health or psychological problems of the child or a family member; and (iv) All surveys, analyses, and evaluations subject to areas covered by the protection of pupil rights amendment of the family educational rights and privacy act; (k) To receive written notice and have the option to opt their child out of instruction on topics associated with sexual activity in accordance with RCW 28A.300.475; (l) To receive from the public school the annual school calendar, no later than 30 days prior to the beginning of the school year, and to be notified in writing as soon as feasible of any revisions to such calendar. Such calendar must be posted to the public school’s website and must include, at a minimum, student attendance days and any event that requires parent or student attendance outside of normal school days or hours; (m) To receive in writing each year or to view on the public school’s website a comprehensive listing of any
required fee and its purpose and use and a description of how economic hardships may be addressed; (n) To receive in writing each year or to view on the school’s website a description of the school’s required dress code or uniform established pursuant to RCW 28A.320.140, if applicable, for students; and (o) To be informed if their child’s academic performance, including whether their child is provided a student learning plan, is such that it could threaten the child’s ability to be promoted to the next grade level and to be offered an in-person meeting with the child’s classroom teacher and principal to discuss any resources or strategies available to support and encourage the child’s academic improvement. (4) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, a public school shall not be required to release any records or information regarding a student’s medical or health records or mental health counseling records to a parent during the pendency of an investigation of child abuse or neglect conducted by any law enforcement agency or the department of children, youth, and families where the parent is the target of the investigation, unless the parent has obtained a court order. (5) As used in this section “public school” has the same meaning as in RCW 28A.150.010. (((1) The legislature finds that: (a) Parents are the primary stakeholders in their children’s upbringing; (b) parental involvement is a significant factor in increasing student achievement; and (c) access to student information encourages greater parental involvement. (2) Parents and legal guardians of children enrolled in public schools as defined in RCW 28A.150.010 have the following rights: (a) To access their child’s classroom and schoolsponsored activities to observe in accordance with RCW 28A.605.020 and to examine the curriculum, textbooks, instructional materials, and supplemental instructional materials used in their child’s classroom in accordance with policies and procedures; (b) To inspect and review their child’s education records and to request and receive a copy of their child’s education records within a reasonable period of time, but not more than 45 days, of submitting a request in accordance with the federal family educational rights and privacy act of 1974, Title 20 U.S.C. Sec. 1232g, as in effect on January 1, 2025, and RCW 28A.605.030. (ii) Parents and legal guardians choosing to inspect and review their child’s education records may not be required by a public school to appear in person for the purposes of requesting or validating a request for their child’s education records, provided the public school can ascertain the identity of the requestor. (iii) No charge may be imposed on a parent or legal guardian to inspect or review their child’s education records or for the costs of searching for or retrieving the education records. Any charges for a copy of such records must be reasonable, not prevent a parent, legal guardian, or eligible child from exercising the right to inspect and review the child’s education records, and
Initiative Measure IL26-001 be set forth in the official policies and procedures of the school district and public school. (iv) Education records means those official records, files, and data directly related to a student and maintained by the public school including, but not limited to, records encompassing all the material kept in the child’s cumulative folder, such as general identifying data, records of attendance and of academic work completed, records of achievement and results of evaluative tests, disciplinary status, test protocols, and individualized education programs; (v) Education records do not include records that are kept in the sole possession of the maker, are used only as a personal memory aid, and are not accessible or revealed to any other person except a temporary substitute for the maker of the record; (vi) Nothing in this section changes the access and disclosure provisions established in chapter 70.02 RCW related to health care information; (c) To receive notification upon receipt of a report that a criminal action is alleged to have been committed against their child on school property during the school ay or during a school sponsored activity including immediate notification if there has been a shooting on school property, or their child has been detained based on probably cause of involvement in criminal activity on school property during the school day; (d) To receive immediate notification upon receipt of a report that their child is alleged to be the victim, target, or recipient of physical or sexual abuse, sexual misconduct, or assault by a school employee or school contractor, as required by RCW 28A.320.160; (e) To receive immediate notification if law enforcement personnel question their child during a custodial interrogation at the school during the school day, except in cases where the parent or legal guardian has been accused of abusing or neglecting the child; (f) To not have their child removed from school grounds or buildings during school hours without authorization of a parent or legal guardian according to the provisions in RCW 28A.605.010. Nothing in this section affects the provisions in RCW 74.15.020, 13.32A.082, 26.44.050, or 26.44.115; (g) To have their child receive a public education in a setting in which discrimination on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability is prohibited under chapters 28A.640 and 28A.642 RCW; (h) In accordance with the protection of pupil rights, Title 20 U.S.C. Sec. 1232h, the right to receive written notice and the option to opt their child out of any survey, analysis, or evaluation that reveals information concerning: (i) Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent or legal guardian; (ii) Mental or psychological problems of the student
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or the student’s family; (iii) Sex behavior and attitudes; (iv) Illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating or demeaning behavior; (v) Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships; (vi) Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers, physicians, and ministers; (vii) Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or student’s parent or legal guardian; or (viii) Income, other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program; (i) To receive written notice and have the option to opt their child out of comprehensive sexual health education in accordance with RCW 28A.300.475; (j) To receive from the public school the annual school calendar, no later than 30 days prior to the beginning of the school year, and to be notified in writing as soon as feasible of any revisions to such calendar. Such calendar must be posted to the public school’s website and must include, at a minimum, student attendance days and any known event that requires parent, legal guardian, or student attendance outside of normal school days or hours; (k) To receive in writing each year or to view on the public school’s website a comprehensive listing of any required fee and its purpose and use and a description of how economic hardships may be considered in the administration of fees; (l) To receive in writing each year or to view on the public school’s website a description of the school’s required dress code or uniform established pursuant to the policies established and allowed by RCW 28A.320.140, if applicable, for students; (m) To be informed if their child’s academic progress, including the right to receive periodic reports on their child’s educational growth and development in accordance with RCW 28A.150.240 and to receive notice of their child’s performance on state learning standards tests and assessments in accordance with RCW 28A.230.195, and whether the performance, is such that it could threaten the child’s ability to be promoted to the next grade level. A parent or legal guardian also has the right to request an in-person meeting with the child’s classroom teacher and principal to discuss any resources or strategies available to support and encourage the child’s academic improvement; (n) To file a complaint on behalf of their child under RCW 28A.600.477 relating to harassment, intimidation, and bullying; (o) To have their child qualify for enrollment in a school district if they are transferred to, or pending transfer to, a military installation within the state in accordance with RCW 28A.225.216; (p) To request enrollment for their child in a charter school established under chapter 28A.710 RCW; (q) To have their child qualify without a legal residence
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for enrollment in a school district in accordance with RCW 28A.225.215; (r) To have their child whose primary language is not English access supplemental instruction and services through the transitional bilingual instruction program in accordance with RCW 28A.150.220; (s) To receive annual notice of the public school’s language access policies and services, the parents’ rights to free language access services under Title VI of the civil rights act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. Sec. 2000d, et seq., and the contact information for any language access services under RCW 28A.183.040; (t) To request enrollment for their child in a nonresident school district in accordance with RCW 28A.225.220, 28A.225.225, and 28A.225.230; (u) To be notified of unexcused absences and to engage in efforts to eliminate or reduce their child’s absences in accordance with RCW 28A.225.015, 28A.225.018, and 28A.225.020; (v) To request, under RCW 28A.155.090, information about special education programs and assistance for their child if their child is eligible for but not receiving special education services, including due to illness; (w) To request an appeal to the superintendent of public instruction under RCW 28A.155.080 if their child with disabilities has been denied the opportunity of a special education program by a school district or public school; and (x) To access special education due process hearings regarding their child as required by RCW 28A.155.020. (3) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, a public school shall not be required to release any records or information regarding a student’s health care, social work, counseling, or disciplinary records to a parent or legal guardian who is the defendant in a criminal proceeding where the student is the named victim or during the pendency of an investigation of child abuse or neglect conducted by any law enforcement agency or the department of children, youth, and families where the parent or legal guardian is the target of the investigation, unless the parent or legal guardian has obtained a court order. (4) Nothing in this section creates a private right of action.)) NEW SECTION. Sec. 2. The provisions of this act are to be liberally construed to effectuate the policies, purposes, and intent of this act. NEW SECTION. Sec. 3. If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected. NEW SECTION. Sec. 4. This act is known and may be cited as the Washington Parents’ Bill of Rights.
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Initiative Measure No. IL26-638 AN ACT Relating to defending equity in interscholastic sports; amending RCW 28A.600.200 and 28A.640.020; adding a new section to chapter 28A.600 RCW; and creating new sections. BE IT ENACTED BY THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON: NEW SECTION. Sec. 1. The people find: (1) Existing Washington state law and school district policies require students to undergo a routine physical examination prior to participation in interscholastic sports, which includes documentation of the student’s sex assigned at birth; (2) This established requirement provides a reliable and medically verified basis to determine a student’s biological sex; (3) Protecting the integrity and fairness of women’s interscholastic sports necessitates that students compete in athletic activities consistent with the gender assigned at birth; and (4) Leveraging the existing physical examination process to verify biological sex ensures equity, safety, and competitive balance in sports intended exclusively for female students, while respecting the rights and opportunities of all participants. Sec. 2. RCW 28A.600.200 and 2012 c 155 s 2 are each amended to read as follows: (1) Each school district board of directors is hereby granted and shall exercise the authority to control, supervise and regulate the conduct of interschool athletic activities and other interschool extracurricular activities of an athletic, cultural, social or recreational nature for students of the district. A board of directors may delegate control, supervision and regulation of any such activity to the Washington interscholastic activities association or any other voluntary nonprofit entity and compensate such entity for services provided, subject to the ((following)) conditions ((: (1))) outlined in this section. (2) The voluntary nonprofit entity shall not discriminate in connection with employment or membership upon its governing board, or otherwise in connection with any function it performs, on the basis of race, creed, national origin, sex or marital status ((; (2)(a))) (3) Any rules and policies adopted and applied by the voluntary nonprofit entity that governs student participation in any interschool activity shall be written ((;)) and (((b) Such rules and policies shall)) provide for notice of the reasons and a fair opportunity to contest such reasons prior to a final determination to reject a student’s request to participate in or to continue in an interschool activity. (((3)(a))) (4) The association or other voluntary nonprofit entity is authorized to impose penalties for rules violations upon coaches, school district administrators, school administrators, and students, as appropriate, to
Initiative Measure IL26-638 punish the offending party or parties ((; (b) No)), but no penalty may be imposed on a student or students unless the student or students knowingly violated the rules or unless a student gained a significant competitive advantage or materially disadvantaged another student through a rule violation ((; (c))). Any penalty that is imposed for rules violations must be proportional to the offense ((; (d) Any)), and any decision resulting in a penalty shall be considered a decision of the school district conducting the activity in which the student seeks to participate or was participating and may be appealed pursuant to RCW 28A.600.205 and 28A.645.010 through 28A.645.030. (((4))) (5) The school districts, Washington interscholastic activities association districts, and leagues that participate in the interschool extracurricular activities shall not impose more severe penalties for rule violations than can be imposed by the rules of the association or the voluntary nonprofit entity. (((5))) (6) Policies, procedures, rules, and other requirements adopted by a school district or a voluntary nonprofit entity in accordance with this section must conform with section 3 of this act. (7) As used in this section and RCW 28A.600.205, “knowingly” means having actual knowledge of or acting with deliberate ignorance or reckless disregard for the prohibition involved. NEW SECTION. Sec. 3. A new section is added to chapter 28A.600 RCW to read as follows: (1) Policies, procedures, rules, and other requirements adopted in accordance with RCW 28A.600.200 by a school district board of directors or a voluntary nonprofit entity must prohibit biologically male students from competing with and against female students in athletic activities with separate classifications for male and female students if the athletic activity is: (a) Intended for female students only; and (b) An individual or team competition activity. (2) A student who elects to participate in individual or team competition activities intended for female students only governed under subsection (1) of this section shall provide, as part of the required routine sports physical examination, a health examination and consent form or other statement signed by the student’s personal health care provider that verifies the student’s biological sex, relying only on one or more of the following: The student’s reproductive anatomy, genetic makeup, or normal endogenously produced testosterone levels. Sec. 4. RCW 28A.640.020 and 2023 c 242 s 3 are each amended to read as follows: (1) The superintendent of public instruction shall develop regulations and guidelines to eliminate sex discrimination as it applies to public school employment, counseling and guidance services to students, recreational and athletic activities for students, access to course offerings, and in textbooks and instructional materials used by students. (a) Specifically with respect to public school employment, all schools shall be required to:
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(i) Maintain credential requirements for all personnel without regard to sex; (ii) Make no differentiation in pay scale on the basis of sex; (iii) Assign school duties without regard to sex except where such assignment would involve duty in areas or situations, such as but not limited to a shower room, where persons might be disrobed; (iv) Provide the same opportunities for advancement to males and females; and (v) Make no difference in conditions of employment including, but not limited to, hiring practices, leaves of absence, hours of employment, and assignment of, or pay for, instructional and noninstructional duties, on the basis of sex. (b) Specifically with respect to counseling and guidance services for students, they shall be made available to all students equally. All certificated personnel shall be required to stress access to all career and vocational opportunities to students without regard to sex. (c) Specifically with respect to recreational and athletic activities, they shall be offered to all students without regard to sex, except as provided in section 3 of this act. Schools may provide separate teams for each sex. Schools which provide the following shall do so with no disparities based on sex: Equipment and supplies; medical care; services and insurance; transportation and per diem allowances; opportunities to receive coaching and instruction; laundry services; assignment of game officials; opportunities for competition, publicity and awards; scheduling of games and practice times including use of courts, gyms, and pools: PROVIDED, That such scheduling of games and practice times shall be determined by local administrative authorities after consideration of the public and student interest in attending and participating in various recreational and athletic activities. Each school which provides showers, toilets, or training room facilities for athletic purposes shall provide comparable facilities for both sexes. Such facilities may be provided either as separate facilities or shall be scheduled and used separately by each sex. The superintendent of public instruction shall also be required to develop a student survey to distribute every three years to each local school district in the state to determine student interest for male/female participation in specific sports. (d) Specifically with respect to course offerings, all classes shall be required to be available to all students without regard to sex: PROVIDED, That separation is permitted within any class during sessions on sex education or gym classes. (e) Specifically with respect to textbooks and instructional materials, which shall also include, but not be limited to, reference books and audiovisual materials, they shall be required to adhere to the guidelines developed by the superintendent of public instruction to implement the intent of this chapter: PROVIDED, That this subsection shall not be construed to prohibit the introduction of material deemed appropriate by the instructor for educational purposes.
Initiative Measure IL26-638
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(2)(a) By December 31, 1994, the superintendent of public instruction shall develop criteria for use by school districts in developing sexual harassment policies as required under (b) of this subsection. The criteria shall address the subjects of grievance procedures, remedies to victims of sexual harassment, disciplinary actions against violators of the policy, and other subjects at the discretion of the superintendent of public instruction. Disciplinary actions must conform with collective bargaining agreements and state and federal laws. The superintendent of public instruction also shall supply sample policies to school districts upon request. (b) By June 30, 1995, every school district shall adopt and implement a written policy concerning sexual harassment. The policy shall apply to all school district employees, volunteers, parents, and students, including, but not limited to, conduct between students. (c) School district policies on sexual harassment shall be reviewed by the superintendent of public instruction considering the criteria established under (a) of this subsection as part of the monitoring process established in RCW 28A.640.030. (d) The school district’s sexual harassment policy shall be conspicuously posted throughout each school building, and provided to each employee. A copy of the policy shall appear in any publication of the school or school district setting forth the rules, regulations, procedures, and standards of conduct for the school or school district. This requirement as it relates to students, parents, and guardians may be satisfied by using the
model student handbook language in RCW 28A.300.286. (e) Each school shall develop a process for discussing the district’s sexual harassment policy. The process shall ensure the discussion addresses the definition of sexual harassment and issues covered in the sexual harassment policy. (f) “Sexual harassment” as used in this section means unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical contact, or other verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature if: (i) Submission to that conduct or communication is made a term or condition, either explicitly or implicitly, of obtaining an education or employment; (ii) Submission to or rejection of that conduct or communication by an individual is used as a factor in decisions affecting that individual’s education or employment; or (iii) That conduct or communication has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s educational or work performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational or work environment. NEW SECTION. Sec. 5. This act may be known and cited as the defending equity in interscholastic sports act. NEW SECTION. Sec. 6. If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected.
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County Elections Offices Adams County 210 W Broadway Ave, Ste 200 Ritzville, WA 99169 (509) 659-3249 elections@co.adams.wa.gov
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Cowlitz County 207 N 4th Ave, Rm 205 Kelso, WA 98626 (360) 577-3005 elections@cowlitzwa.gov
Douglas County 213 S Rainier St Waterville, WA 98858 (509) 888-6402 elections@co.douglas.wa.us
Ferry County 350 E Delaware Ave, Ste 2 Republic, WA 99166 (509) 775-5225 ext. 1139 delections@co.ferry.wa.us
Franklin County 404 W Clark St Pasco, WA 99301 (509) 545-3538 elections@franklincountywa.gov
Mason County
Spokane County
789 Main St Pomeroy, WA 99347 (509) 843-1411 swolf@garfieldcountywa.gov
411 N 5th St Shelton, WA 98584 (360) 427-9670 ext 470 elections@masoncountywa.gov
1033 W Gardner Ave Spokane, WA 99260 (509) 477-2320 elections@spokanecounty.gov
Grant County
Garfield County
Okanogan County
Stevens County
35 C St NW, Rm 203 Ephrata, WA 98823 (509) 754-2011 ext 2704 elections@grantcountywa.gov
149 3rd Ave N, Rm 104 Okanogan, WA 98840 (509) 422-7240 elections@okanogancounty.gov
215 S Oak St, Rm 106 Colville, WA 99114 (509) 684-7514 elections@stevenscountywa.gov
Grays Harbor County
Pacific County
Thurston County
100 W Broadway Ave, Ste 2 Montesano, WA 98563 (360) 249-4232 elections@graysharbor.us
300 Memorial Dr South Bend, WA 98586 (360) 875-9317 elections@co.pacific.wa.us
2915 29th Ave SW Tumwater, WA 98512 (360) 786-5408 elections@co.thurston.wa.us
Island County
Pend Oreille County
Wahkiakum County
400 N Main St Coupeville, WA 98239 (360) 678-8290 elections@islandcountywa.gov
625 W 4th St Newport, WA 99156 (509) 447-6472 elections@pendoreille.gov
64 Main St Cathlamet, WA 98612 (360) 795-3219 elections@co.wahkiakum.wa.us
Jefferson County
Pierce County
Walla Walla County
1820 Jefferson St Port Townsend, WA 98368 (360) 385-9119 elections@co.jefferson.wa.us
2501 S 35th St, Ste C Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 798-VOTE (8683) elections@piercecountywa.gov
315 W Main St Walla Walla, WA 99362 (509) 524-2530 elections@wwcowa.gov
King County
San Juan County
Whatcom County
919 SW Grady Way Renton, WA 98057 (206) 296-8683 elections@kingcounty.gov
55 2nd St, Ste A Friday Harbor, WA 98250 (360) 378-3357 elections@sanjuancountywa.gov
311 Grand Ave, Ste 103 Bellingham, WA 98225 (360) 778-5102 elections@co.whatcom.wa.us
Kitsap County
Skagit County
Whitman County
619 Division St Port Orchard, WA 98366 (360) 307-VOTE (8683) auditor@kitsap.gov
700 S 2nd St Mount Vernon, WA 98273 (360) 416-1702 scelections@co.skagit.wa.us
304 N Main St Colfax, WA 99111 (509) 397-5284 elections@whitmancounty.gov
Kittitas County
Skamania County
Yakima County
205 W 5th Ave, Ste 105 Ellensburg, WA 98926 (509) 962-7503 elections@co.kittitas.wa.us
240 NW Vancouver Ave Stevenson, WA 98648 (509) 427-3730 elections@co.skamania.wa.us
128 N 2nd St, Rm 117 Yakima, WA 98901 (509) 574-1340 iVote@co.yakima.wa.us
Klickitat County
Snohomish County
205 S Columbus Ave, Rm 203 Goldendale, WA 98620 (509) 773-4001 voting@klickitatcounty.gov
Lewis County
3000 Rockefeller Ave Admin West Building, 1st floor Everett, WA 98201 (425) 388-3444 elections@snoco.gov
351 NW North St Chehalis, WA 98532 (360) 740-1278 elections@lewiscountywa.gov
Your county elections office can help you:
Lincoln County
• register to vote • update your address • get a replacement ballot • use an accessible voting unit • locate your nearest ballot drop box
450 Logan St Davenport, WA 99122 (509) 725-4971 elections@ lincolncountywaelections.gov
2026 1 (800) 448-4881 | sos.wa.gov/elections
Ballots mailed out by October 16
General Election November 3
Washington State Elections & Benton County
Voters’ Pamphlet
PERMIT NO. 1216
SEATTLE, WA
PAID
Benton County
EDITION 13
Residential Customer
PO Box 40220 Olympia WA 98504-0220
U.S. POSTAGE
ECRWSS
NONPROFIT ORG.