Judge disqualifies Everett council candidate Niko Battle off ballot in verdict Sept. 9

A Snohomish County Superior Court judge disqualified Niko Battle from the ballot on September 9 due to a resident's eligibility challenge. Judge Richard Okrent ruled that Battle failed to submit necessary evidence to counter claims about his voter address, which could pave the way for third-place candidate Luis Burbano to compete against Alan Rubio. Battle, who identifies with they/them and he/him pronouns, argues that his address at an apartment complex complies with state law, citing protections for voters in nontraditional living situations. However, the city of Everett imposes stricter requirements for candidates, necessitating residency in the district for at least six months. Battle has not disclosed his apartment unit to prevent harassment of his friends.

Challenger John Dimas presented records indicating Battle's prior registration in Georgia, which Battle disputes as speculative. The county auditor is conducting a separate investigation, and Battle plans to appeal the ruling, claiming it is an injustice. The case highlights the complexities of voter eligibility in local elections.