The 2025 primary election in Washington state is underway, and FYM News is closely monitoring the results of key races across King County. As initial returns are released, we provide up-to-date information on the candidates and issues shaping the political landscape of Seattle and its surrounding areas. From the race for Seattle Mayor to the King County Parks Levy, every vote counts in determining the future of our communities.
This election is particularly important as it sets the stage for the November general election, where the top two vote-getters from each primary race will compete for the final seat. The decisions made by King County voters will have far-reaching implications for local policies, infrastructure, and the overall quality of life in the region. Stay with us as we break down the results and analyze what they mean for you.
In this article, we’ll cover the initial results from the top races, including the Seattle Mayor’s race, the King County Executive position, and mayoral contests in Tacoma and Everett. We’ll also provide updates on the King County Parks Levy, which seeks to renew funding for parks and recreational areas. Our goal is to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the election results, so you can stay informed and engaged in the political process.
Seattle Mayor: Harrell and Wilson Lead in Early Returns
In the race for Seattle Mayor, incumbent Bruce Harrell and challenger Katie Wilson are currently leading the pack, according to initial election returns. Wilson took an early lead with 46% of the vote, while Harrell is closely behind with 45%. The two candidates are vying for the chance to advance to the general election in November.
Harrell, who is seeking a second term, has emphasized his achievements in rebuilding the police department and reducing crime rates. He also highlighted investments in affordable housing and efforts to make Seattle more attractive to businesses and visitors. As he told FYM News in May, his focus remains on creating a safer and more vibrant city for all residents.
Wilson, the co-founder and executive director of the Transit Riders Union, is campaigning on a platform of advocacy for working people across Seattle and King County. Her campaign website highlights her leadership in efforts to raise the minimum wage in Tukwila, Burien, and unincorporated King County. “I am committed to fighting for a more equitable and just Seattle,” Wilson stated in a recent interview.
The top two vote-getters will advance to the general election on November 4, where mail-in ballots will be distributed in the weeks leading up to Election Day. The outcome of this race will significantly impact the direction of Seattle’s policies on issues such as housing, transportation, and public safety.
King County Executive: Zahilay and Balducci in Tight Race
The race for King County Executive is heating up, with King County Councilmembers Girmay Zahilay and Claudia Balducci leading the field after the initial round of election returns. Zahilay currently has 40% of the vote, while Balducci trails with 30%. The candidates are competing to replace Dow Constantine, who stepped down to become Sound Transit’s CEO.
Zahilay expressed confidence in his campaign’s performance, stating, “While there are still thousands of votes left to be counted, it is clear that our campaign decisively won the primary and will advance to the November general election. I am humbled that voters throughout King County have backed our campaign for County Executive and delivered such a historic victory.”
Balducci emphasized her experience and track record, saying, “As I’ve campaigned across every part of King County, neighbors have said they want a County Executive with a proven track record of delivering big results on key issues like affordable housing, homelessness, transportation, and public safety. And they want a leader who brings the experience on day one to reform the broken systems in King County government and stand up to federal attacks to defend our shared values.”
The top two vote-getters will move on to the general election in November. The next King County Executive will play a crucial role in addressing the region’s pressing issues, from housing affordability to transportation infrastructure.
Tacoma Mayor: Ibsen and Hines Lead Among Six Candidates
In Tacoma, six candidates are vying for the position of mayor. Among them are Steve Haverly, Jesus Carlos, Whitney Stevens, Anthony Ginn, Anders Ibsen, and John Hines. According to initial returns, Ibsen and Hines are leading the race with 35% and 20% of the vote, respectively.
The race for Tacoma Mayor is particularly significant as the city faces numerous challenges, including economic development, public safety, and infrastructure improvements. The candidates have presented diverse platforms to address these issues, and the primary election will narrow the field to the top two contenders.
As the election results continue to come in, the focus will be on which two candidates will advance to the general election. The outcome of this race will shape the future of Tacoma and its ability to tackle the challenges facing the city.
The top two vote-getters advance to the general election. The general election is set for Nov. 4, with mail-in ballots to be distributed in the weeks leading up to Election Day.
Everett Mayor: Murphy and Franklin in Close Contest
In Everett, Cassie Franklin is seeking her third term as mayor, facing challenges from former Councilmember Scott Murphy, Rich Ryan, and Janice Green. The initial election returns show a close contest between Murphy and Franklin, with Murphy leading at 37% and Franklin trailing closely with 35%.
The race for Everett Mayor is crucial as the city navigates issues such as economic growth, housing affordability, and community development. The candidates have presented different visions for the future of Everett, and the primary election will determine which two will compete in the general election.
The top two vote-getters advance to the general election. The general election is set for Nov. 4, with mail-in ballots to be distributed in the weeks leading up to Election Day.
The outcome of this race will significantly impact the direction of Everett’s policies and its ability to address the needs of its residents.
King County Parks Levy: Voters Asked to Renew Funding
King County voters are being asked to renew the King County Parks Levy for another six years. Initial returns show strong support for the levy, with 70% of voters in favor of its renewal. The levy provides funding for the operations and maintenance of King County’s parks and trails, as well as grant programs to expand access to recreation and protect open space.
If approved, the levy would allow the county to tax property owners at $0.2329 per $1,000 of assessed value in 2026, with annual increases. For the owner of a home valued at $844,000, this would amount to $16.38 per month, which is $2.50 more than the current levy.
The funds from the levy also support park districts, the Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle Aquarium, Pacific Science Center, Seattle’s Waterfront Park, and Memorial Stadium. The renewal of the levy is crucial for maintaining and enhancing the region’s recreational resources.
The money from the levy supports operations and maintenance of King County’s parks and trails, as well as provides grant programs to expand access to recreation while protecting open space. It also supports park districts, the Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle Aquarium, Pacific Science Center, Seattle’s Waterfront Park and Memorial Stadium.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways from the 2025 Primary Election
The initial results from the 2025 primary election in Washington state provide valuable insights into the political landscape of King County. Key races, such as the Seattle Mayor’s race and the King County Executive position, are shaping up to be closely contested. The outcomes of these elections will have significant implications for the region’s policies and priorities.
The strong support for the King County Parks Levy indicates the importance that voters place on maintaining and enhancing recreational resources. As the election results continue to be updated in the coming days, FYM News will provide ongoing coverage and analysis to keep you informed.
The decisions made by King County voters in this election will have far-reaching consequences for the future of our communities. Stay engaged in the political process and make your voice heard in the November general election.
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