Election 2025 Day 6 Later-voter surge sends Wilson over top but recount looms

Seattle’s 2025 mayoral race sees challenger Katie Wilson leading incumbent Bruce Harrell by 1,346 votes after recent counts. Wilson's margin of 0. 491% could trigger an automatic recount if it remains under 2,000 votes. The King County Elections Office reported over 1,700 challenged ballots, with Wilson actively working to resolve these issues through volunteer efforts. Harrell's campaign focused on his extensive experience and criticisms of Wilson's background, labeling her as inexperienced.

A survey of CHS readers indicated that Wilson's backers prioritized affordability and transit, while Harrell's emphasized public safety and homelessness. Wilson, a progressive organizer, has campaigned on creating affordable housing and addressing homelessness. Historically, the last Seattle incumbent mayor to win reelection was Greg Nickels in 2005. Wilson plans to prioritize homelessness in her administration if she assumes office in January.