Echohawk announces run for Seattle Mayor including plan for new Public Safety Department UPDATE

Colleen Echohawk, executive director of the Chief Seattle Club, announced her run for Seattle mayor, aiming to be the first Native mayor in the city's history. Her campaign highlights a platform centered on equitable development, rapid rehousing, and a new Public Safety Department that incorporates community mental health workers. Echohawk's initiatives respond to community calls for police reform and seek to address the needs of the city's unsheltered populations. She emphasized the importance of collaboration with the city council and community stakeholders in implementing her proposals. The upcoming mayoral race is particularly competitive following Mayor Jenny Durkan's decision to not seek reelection.

Echohawk is aware of the potential challenge posed by multiple progressive candidates splitting the vote, as seen in the 2017 election. She aims to leverage her connections within the Native community and broader city networks to gather support. Echohawk's candidacy participates in the city's Democracy Voucher program, which aims to diversify candidates in local elections.