Concerned about the impacts of funding and policy decisions made by Congress and the Trump administration? Want a voice in how public schools will meet the future needs of students in Seattle?
The King County August 2025 primary election is your opportunity to help cull the field of candidates for leadership positions responsible for mitigating federal cuts, advocating for community services, keeping the region safe, and ensuring our public schools offer ever child the high caliber education they deserve. Voting in the primary is an effective way to take action and have a say in the future of Seattle and King County. While none of the seat races will be decided on Aug. 5, the top two candidates for each position will move on to the November 4 general election.
The King County Elections Office sent out ballots for primary election earlier this month. To participate in the King County August 2025 primary election, make sure your ballot is either dropped off in a secure drop box or postmarked by 8 p.m. on August 5.
Key Races on the August 2025 King County Ballot
There’s much on the ballot in this primary, including:
- Seattle School Board: There are 13 candidates running for three seats on the board—in Districts 2, 4 and 5. “Passionate candidates are stepping forward, each bringing their vision for our district’s future: addressing student mental health and safety, deep diving into the annual district budget, ensuring equitable access to student resources and services, and preparing students for their futures post-graduation,” according to an overview of candidates written by the Alliance for Education. Learn more by reading “Seattle School Board: Meet the candidates.“
- Washington State Legislature: Nine legislative seats in the Seattle area are up for election (five in the state Senate and four in the state House of Representatives).
- Seattle mayor: Which of two of the nine candidates for Seattle mayor will be on the November ballot?
- Seattle City Council: Which six of 14 candidates will be on the November ballot for three open Seattle City Council seats.
- Seattle City Attorney: Two candidates of four primary candidates will move on to the November election,
- King County Executive: Eight candidates are running the primary King County Executive, with two moving forward to November general election.
- King County Council: There are nine candidates running for District 5 and 7 King County Council seats, only four (two for each seat) will move be on the November ballot.
Local Measures and Propositions to Watch
Beyond elected officials, the August King County ballot will include nearly 6o local measures, including:
- Seattle Proposition No. 1 asks voters whether or not they want to renew the Seattle Democracy Voucher Program. This proposition would replace an expiring levy to fund the program, which allows voters to “donate” $25 to any Seattle candidate in an election. It is a way to ensure that those without big bank accounts can run for office. A property tax funds the $3 million in annual donations.
- Shoreline School District No. 412 Proposition No. 1 requests a one-year supplemental levy for educational programs and operations.
- King County Fire Protection District No. 40 Proposition No. 1 to reduce the Board of Commissioners from five to three members. County officials say the proposal aims to improve “operational efficiencies and reduce administrative costs, while preserving the board’s essential oversight functions.” It does not impact emergency services.
- Public Hospital District No. 2 Proposition No. 1 for a levy lid lift for Evergreen Hospital (EvergreenHealth). According to supporters, the measure aims to address a “critical shortage” of hospital beds and long wait times for primary and specialty care appointments on the Eastside. The hospital is an independent, community-owned public hospital.
- Various other ballot measures are impacting different jurisdictions within King County, including cities such as Kirkland, Maple Valley, and school districts like Enumclaw, Fife, Kent, and Skykomish, among others.
How and When to Vote in the King County August 2025 Primary Election
Make your voice heard in the King County August 2025 primary election. Every local vote helps determine the direction of our communities.
Voters who need to update their registration can do so online until Monday, July 28. For last-minute updates or to vote in person, voters can visit a voting center or county elections office until 8 p.m. on Aug. 5.
