In 2024 there is an opportunity to bring about major changes in Pierce County government. Not only is the County Council majority at stake, but we can also elect a County Executive who understands the need to protect the environment. To retain the present majority, we must retain Jani Hitchen in District 6 and fill Ryan Mello’s District 4 seat as he campaigns to become our next County Executive. To provide guidance, we interview candidates in most of the contested seats and provide information and recommendations according to local environmental issues.

The Environmental Coalition is a small group of volunteers, and we only conduct interviews for seats that may have a significant impact on environmental issues in Pierce County. Our candidate recommendations are based on their prior actions and statements, in addition to the strength of their campaigns as measured by both fundraising and volunteer support.

Many county and state laws are helpful in guiding commercial development, creating more livable communities, and funding county parks and open spaces. However, without the political will to enforce the state Environmental Policy Act and save wetlands, streams, working farms and forests, it remains difficult to change Pierce County for the better. Working together, we can create a better future and assert the necessary political will. We aim to build relationships with strong candidates and help them get elected. Look over the list and let us know what you think–you may have insights that will help us.

Office                                                    Endorsed Candidate                  Campaign Website

Pierce County Executive                            Ryan Mello                         www.ryanmello.com

Pierce County Council – District 6          Jani Hitchen                   www.electjanihitchen.org

Pierce County Council – District 4           Rosie Ayala                 www.peopleforrosieayala.com

WA Commissioner of Public Lands    Dave Upthegrove                    www.upthegrove.org

WA Lieutenant Governor                           Denny Heck                            dennyheck.com

WA Governor                                             Bob Ferguson                     www.bobferguson.com

U.S. Congress – District 6                       Emily Randall                       electemilyrandall.com

U.S. Congress – District 8                         Kim Schrier                            drkimschrier.com

U.S. Congress – District 10                 Marilyn Strickland            stricklandforwashington.com

U.S. Senate                                               Maria Cantwell                             cantwell.com

U.S. President                                              Joe Biden                                  joebiden.com