Zahilay launches bid to become the first millennial, immigrant, or refugee King County Exec

Girmay Zahilay has officially announced his candidacy for King County Executive in the 2025 election, starting with a robust foundation of endorsements from newly elected Democratic leaders, including Governor Bob Ferguson and Attorney General-elect Nick Brown. His campaign is driven by a commitment to ensuring that opportunities are accessible to all residents, reflecting on his own journey as an immigrant. Zahilay, who has represented various neighborhoods on the King County Council since 2020, recently championed a $1 billion workforce housing initiative aimed at creating permanently rent-restricted housing for the region. His announcement follows Dow Constantine's decision not to seek reelection, which has opened up the race for new leadership. Claudia Balducci, a former Bellevue mayor and current council member, has also declared her candidacy, focusing on affordable housing and sustainable transportation.

Additionally, County Assessor John Wilson has entered the race, advocating for a more conservative approach, particularly concerning homelessness and housing policy. With King County's budget projected to reach $10. 2 billion in 2025, the stakes are high for the candidates as they prepare to address pressing regional issues. The dynamics of the race will likely reflect the complex relationship between Seattle and King County, as well as the evolving demographics of the region.