Seattle mayoral primary results: Incumbent Bruce Harrell trails challenger Katie Wilson

On the Ballot

On this episode: Seattle's August 5th mayoral primary produced unexpected results, with incumbent Bruce Harrell—endorsed by the governor and congressional delegation—currently trailing progressive organizer Katie Wilson. The city hasn't re-elected a mayor since 2005, and this tight race looks as if that pattern could continue. As mail-in ballots are counted through mid-August, the contest centers on key issues, such as Harrell's public safety record and Wilson's housing proposal to open 4,000 emergency units through tiny homes. Multiple incumbents across Seattle races are also trailing their challengers, from city attorney to council president, suggesting potential changes in leadership coming down the road. Seattle's results may offer insights into Democratic voter preferences in this heavily blue city as the general election approaches in November.

Follow along with the primary results: https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Seattle,_Washington_(2025)

Complete a brief 5 minute survey to review the show and share some feedback: https://forms.gle/zPxYSog5civyvEKX6

Sign up for our Newsletters: https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia_Email_Updates

Stream "On the Ballot" on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you have questions, comments, or love for BP, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or on X (formerly Twitter) @Ballotpedia.

*On The Ballot is a conversational podcast featuring interviews with guests across the political spectrum. The views and opinions expressed by them are solely their own and are not representative of the views of the host or Ballotpedia as a whole.