2024 Election Guide: Key Initiatives and Candidate Endorsements for Newcastle, WA. Residents

Newcastle, WA – The following guide summarizes key ballot items and candidate endorsements that align with the priorities of our city and its residents.

Key Initiatives

• Initiative 2066: Opposed by local leaders, a "No" vote is encouraged to maintain the state’s clean energy transition and air quality standards. The initiative’s rejection would prevent a rollback of environmental protections, particularly benefiting urban and lower-income areas with reduced pollution.
• Initiative 2109: Voting "No" on this initiative would protect funding for public education and social services, as it aims to preserve nearly $900 million allocated to K-12 schools and early childhood programs. This stance reflects the importance placed on strong educational resources for local families.
• Initiative 2117: By voting "No," residents would support continued investment in Washington’s climate goals and economic stability. This initiative seeks to repeal the Climate Commitment Act, which funds essential projects like wildfire prevention, fish habitat restoration, and clean energy jobs, directly impacting community health and job growth.
• Initiative 2124: Supported with a "No" stance, this vote would help protect WA Cares, Washington’s only long-term care program, securing benefits for seniors, people with disabilities, and vulnerable populations by maintaining an affordable care option.

Education Focus

• Issaquah School District Bond: A "Yes" vote on the 2024 Issaquah School District Bond would provide critical updates to school facilities, including enhanced security, expanded capacity, and improved accessibility for students with disabilities. This endorsement aligns with a commitment to safe, modern, and inclusive learning environments for local students.

Endorsed Candidates

Federal and State Leadership

Local leaders have voiced support for candidates whose policies reflect a focus on public health, education, and sustainable development:

• U.S. President & Vice President: Kamala D. Harris & Tim Walz
• U.S. Senator: Maria Cantwell
• Congressional District 9: Adam Smith
• Governor: Bob Ferguson
• Lieutenant Governor: Denny Heck
• Secretary of State: Steve Hobbs
• State Treasurer: Mike Pellicciotti
• State Auditor: Pat (Patrice) McCarthy
• Attorney General: Nick Brown
• Commissioner of Public Lands: Dave Upthegrove
• Superintendent of Public Instruction: Chris Reykdal
• Insurance Commissioner: Patty Kuderer

41st Legislative District

• State Senator: Lisa Wellman
• Representative Position 1: Tana Senn
• Representative Position 2: My-Linh Thai

Judicial Endorsements

Endorsed judicial candidates include Sal Mungia for Supreme Court Justice and Paul Crisalli for King Superior Court Judge, reflecting the importance of fair and accessible legal standards that protect community rights.

Conclusion

Residents are encouraged to consider these endorsements and initiatives as they prepare to vote, with the focus on local priorities for public safety, educational advancement, environmental sustainability, and community well-being.