King County Executive Dow Constantine announced he won’t run for reelection in 2025.
Constantine released the following statement Tuesday, Nov. 12:
“It was 15 years ago this month that I was sworn in as executive, and it remains an honor, every day, to serve the people of King County. I ran for executive because I care deeply about this region where I was raised and the people who live and work here. My priority was then – and still is today – that every person should be able to thrive, be economically secure, and contribute to the life of our community.
I am grateful for the progress we have made, striving for a better government and a fairer, more just society. We have built more access to opportunity, taken action to safeguard the health of our environment and our people, and set ourselves to the task of identifying and dismantling the systemic racism, sexism, and all the injustices that hold our nation back.
The work is constantly challenging and often daunting, but it is also extraordinarily rewarding to be able to help others. It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve in this role, but it’s time to let a new leader take the reins and build on the work we have done, and so I will not be seeking re-election.
While my time as King County executive will conclude next year, my commitment to this place will be as strong as ever. King County must stay the course of progress – this year, next year, and beyond – always advancing toward a future worthy of every person who is here today, and all who will follow.
I look forward to continuing to focus on our critical work of transit and transportation, climate action, behavioral health, affordable housing, arts and culture, and all we do to create a community where every person can thrive. Together, we will keep building on the progress we have made.”
Voters elected Constantine in 2009 and reelected him three more times, in 2013, 2017 and 2021 to four-year terms.
Balducci to run
Claudia Balducci, a King County Councilmember and Sound Transit Board Member, announced Wednesday, Nov. 13 that she will seek the open seat of King County Executive in 2025. Balducci, an attorney by training who previously served as Bellevue mayor, has served on the County Council since 2015. If elected, she will be the first woman in the county’s history to serve as executive.
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