Seattle vote on 45M Democracy Voucher program renewal planned for August primary

Seattle's Democracy Voucher Program, originally established to counteract the influence of wealthy campaign donors, is on track for renewal with a proposed $45 million expansion funded by a property tax, set for the August primary. Mayor Bruce Harrell's office emphasizes the program's importance in democratizing campaign financing and plans to address its shortcomings, particularly in reaching diverse communities. The program, which has an estimated annual cost of $8 for homeowners, has seen a mixed response, with many vouchers remaining unused in recent elections—only about 30,000 vouchers were collected in 2023. Candidates like Joy Hollingsworth and Alex Hudson have successfully utilized the vouchers, demonstrating their potential to enhance campaign resources. The city council is focused on passing the renewal legislation to ensure the proposal is included on the ballot.

Additionally, Harrell's office has committed to convening a workgroup in 2026 to recommend improvements for the program. This initiative not only reflects Seattle’s commitment to campaign finance reform but also serves as a model for other cities facing similar challenges. The outcome of this renewal could shape the political landscape in Seattle and influence future elections.