Candidate Scorecard
Each election cycle, rather than endorsing candidates for office, a panel of DSA members score and rate them based on how closely their responses to our questionnaire align with our mission and priorities for downtown. We also consider their experience and qualifications.
Candidates were selected to receive the questionnaire based on campaign fundraising, endorsements and viability.
The four major races in the 2026 Washington state election we’re tracking that will impact downtown Seattle are: King County Assessor, Metropolitan King County Council Districts 2 and 8, and Seattle City Council District 5.
We encourage you to read their answers and learn more about how they would support downtown and the many people who live, work and visit here.
King County Council: District 2
King County Council: District 8
Seattle City Council: District 5
Candidate responses are posted in their entirety. Typos and grammatical errors are their own.
Evaluation Standard
Strongly aligned
Clearly and directly advances DSA’s priorities, with specific policy commitments, actionable proposals, or demonstrated actions. Relevant campaign materials and public records reinforce the position, with no unresolved material contradictions.
Aligned
Supports DSA’s priorities and a compatible policy direction but offers less specificity or evidence of implementation. Relevant campaign materials and public records are generally consistent with that position.
Somewhat aligned
Shows partial support but includes meaningful reservations, gaps, ambiguity, or mixed positions. The response or supporting record leaves uncertainty about the candidate’s commitment to advancing DSA’s priorities.
Not aligned
Expresses positions or demonstrates actions that materially conflict with DSA’s priorities. Relevant evidence establishes substantive disagreement or an unresolved material contradiction with the stated response.