Your Daily Guide

Washington State Supreme Court Race: Explained

It’s no ordinary year for the State Supreme Court, a race that typically gets little turnout or attention. Five seats are up for grabs this election — the highest number at once in the modern court. Campaign financing is also breaking records, with one position alone exceeding $1 million in fundraising. [Seattle Times, The Washington Observer]

• Why are so many positions open? As reporter Nathalie Graham puts it, “A wave of retirements combined with regular term limits has made for one hell of a situation.” The court needs a minimum of five justices to rule on an opinion, which means that this election in particular has the potential to change the majority. [The Stranger]
• Who’s funding these races? A combination of left-wing and right-wing PACs are behind the campaigns, some of which are supporting the same candidates. [The Washington Observer]
• What’s so important? To put it simply, this election will have a huge impact on progressive revenue (i.e. taxing millionaires) and civil rights law in our state. La Rond Baker, the legal director for the ACLU of Washington, says, “The Washington State Supreme Court is one of the strongest supreme courts in the country” and is pivotal to protecting our rights. [The Stranger]
• How do you know who to vote for? Nathalie joined us on the podcast to talk through the choices for Supreme Court Judges back in August during the primary. Check out this helpful guide on what to look for in a judge. [City Cast Seattle]