August 10, 2020 Press Releases

August Primary Shows Voters Want Gun Responsibility Candidates

Results from August 4 primary show voters want candidates who will prioritize gun responsibility 

SEATTLE, WA – As Washington communities confront both the coronavirus pandemic and the gun violence epidemic, voters across the state cast their ballots for gun responsibility candidates. Initial results from the August 4th primary show that 92 out of 93 Alliance for Gun Responsibility Victory Fund-endorsed candidates are in position to advance to the general election in November.

“These past few months have made clear that the coronavirus pandemic will not stop the gun violence epidemic and Washington voters have shown once again that they want elected leaders dedicated to gun violence prevention,” said Renée Hopkins, CEO of the Alliance for Gun Responsibility Victory Fund. “The COVID-19 crisis and nationwide calls for racial justice have laid bare underlying risks of gun violence and highlighted the disproportionate impact it has on our communities. This week, voters across the state showed that they want leaders who will prioritize gun safety as we face the challenges ahead.”  

Results are still being tallied but early reports show gun responsibility champions across the state leading their races. In the race for Governor, Jay Inslee, who has been a stalwart advocate for responsible gun laws, leads Republic Police Chief Loren Culp, best known for his nonsensical opposition to Initiative 1639, by more than 30 percent. In the 28th Legislative District, T’wina Nobles is running ahead of Republican incumbent Steve O’Ban. Across the state, new candidates who have made gun safety pillars of their campaigns—like Tarra Simmons in the 23rd Legislative District, Jamila Taylor in the 30th Legislative District, and Helen Price Johnson in the 10th Legislative District—are leading by large margins. 

A full list of Alliance for Gun Responsibility Victory Fund endorsements can be found here. Additional endorsements may also be made before the general election.   

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