Initial results from Washington state’s August primary election on Tuesday set the stage for several closely watched congressional, legislative and local races, with incumbent members of Congress and a number of state lawmakers advancing to the November general election.
Image from King County Elections
Washington uses a top-two primary system, in which all candidates appear on the same ballot regardless of party affiliation. The two candidates receiving the most votes advance to the general election, regardless of political party. Election officials released the first round of results shortly after polls closed at 8 p.m. Tuesday, with additional ballot counts expected daily as mail ballots continue to be processed.
Among the highest-profile contests, Rep. Pramila Jayapal advanced in the 7th Congressional District alongside challenger Nirav Sheth. In the 10th Congressional District, Rep. Marilyn Strickland advanced with Chris Chung, setting up another November congressional matchup.
The primary also narrowed the field in a slate of legislative races across King County. Incumbent lawmakers including state Sens. Cindy Ryu, Manka Dhingra and Vandana Slatter advanced, as did several state representatives seeking reelection. The results also determined the general election field in a number of open and competitive legislative contests, including races in the 1st, 41st and 48th legislative districts.
Local races also took shape. Toshiko Grace Hasegawa advanced in the King County Council District 2 race, while Julie Kang secured a spot in the general election for Seattle City Council Position 5. Bianca Tse advanced in the race for Northeast Electoral District judge, Position No. 1.
In a statement released Tuesday night, Washington State Democratic Party Chair Shasti Conrad said the early returns demonstrated strong support for Democratic candidates across the state and pointed to what she described as momentum heading into the November election. Conrad also noted that ballot counting remains underway.
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