At least 53 candidates endorsed by the Alliance for Gun Responsibility Victory Fund are on track to advance to the general

 SEATTLE, WA –In the midst of a continued surge in gun violence, voters across Washington cast their ballots for candidates who promised action to address the epidemic. Initial results from the August 3rd primary show 53 endorsed municipal candidates and two Alliance for Gun Responsibility Victory Fund Approved Seattle mayoral candidates are in position to advance to the general election in November.

“Local leadership on gun violence prevention and police accountability is more important than ever,” said Renée Hopkins, CEO of the Alliance for Gun Responsibility. “As we, and many other experts and advocates predicted, the pandemic exacerbated the gun violence epidemic. Now communities across the state, especially in King County, are experiencing devastating levels of violence, underscoring just how much more work needs to be done to keep our communities safe. Thankfully, this election, voters proved that they want elected leaders in office at every level who have a comprehensive understanding of the gun violence epidemic and a commitment to addressing it.”

Results are still being tallied but reports show gun responsibility champions across the state leading their races. In many cases, Alliance-endorsed challengers beat incumbents, proving that gun violence prevention is a winning issue. They include:

• Carmen Rivera, Renton City Council Pos 2
• Iris Guzman, Seatac City Council Pos 6
• Jacob Simpson, Seatac City Council Pos 3
• Kate Akyuz, Mercer Island City Council Pos 6
• Renae Seam, Federal Way City Council Pos 6

In lieu of a traditional endorsement in the crowded Seattle mayoral race, the Victory Fund introduced an “Alliance Approved” designation and tracker to inform voters. Both candidates advancing to the general—Bruce Harrell and Lorena Gonzalez—have earned the approved candidate designation.

The full list of Victory Fund endorsements can be found on our website here and in the progressive voters guide.

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