Back in 2021 when the Chamber closed down its political action committee and chose to focus on the issues, not endorse candidates, it was not a retreat from politics or elections.
We say it all the time: elections matter. This November, we will usher in new leaders around the region who will be in charge of decisions around helping the homeless, keeping people safe, and making our region more affordable.
In Seattle, there’s a lot at stake.
Nearly half of the Seattle City Council is going to be new, and they will need to face down serious challenges, and be ready to seize once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.
When we look at local candidates for office, we’re looking for people who can demonstrate that they will be a thoughtful lawmaker who values our members as constituents and has concrete plans to address the most-pressing issues. We want to see leaders who will genuinely embrace a diversity of opinions – including yours, are curious to learn, and want to bring facts and data to their debates and decision-making. Leaders who have integrity and who are transparent and honest. Those who value making progress on the issues over issuing litmus tests. And leaders who are willing to reject the status quo.
I’ve worked in politics a long time, and I know that candidates are running to win, and that they need to distinguish themselves from their opponents. That means staking out positions and trying to tap into the mood of the voters – and align themselves to it.
As you are considering who to vote for, I encourage you to ask questions, dig deep, and get specific. Endorsements can be useful, but they’re no substitute for your informed opinion.
The reality is that Seattle voters are progressive, they are pragmatic, and they want to see progress made on the issues. We encourage you to cast your vote for the people you think best reflects that.
On Nov. 7, there will be more than just candidates on many ballots. In Seattle, we endorsed the Seattle Housing Levy renewal, and we strongly encourage you to vote yes.
If approved, the levy would authorize a property tax increase that would cost an additional $22 a month for the owner of a home of median value, totaling $970 million over a seven-year period. The levy will help low-income families through the construction of new, subsidized homes, and includes a robust operations and maintenance budget to ensure the long-term safety and sustainability of affordable units. It will also stabilize wages for human service workers – in many facilities, having people to provide supports is as important as the facilities themselves.
The levy will build on the successes of the 2016 levy, which was approved by 70% of Seattle voters, including keeping 481 housing units open and assisting 3,854 individuals and families through the homelessness prevention and housing stability program. Vote Yes for Homes!
Elections matter. This year, attend a debate, volunteer for your candidate, do some research, and if you’re not sure how to start, reach out to us and we’ll help. And most importantly, on or before Nov. 7, cast your vote!
With Election Day anticipation,
Rachel
Rachel Smith
President and CEO