Progressive energy is picking up across our state, and the odds for a sea change in November are strong. But odds will not bring victory. What will win elections is early donations from us to support candidates in high impact races.

There is a lot of focus on national races, but the Washington State Legislature is critical to creating meaningful policy on issues that matter most. If we get some big victories in November, we'll be able to pass laws in the coming years on school funding, clean energy, and gun safety. A few more flipped seats in the State Senate and State House will grow our too slim 1 and 2 seat majorities there, and pave the way for concrete, swift progressive action.

How to get involved? Which races are most winnable? Most in need of donations from us fast? At Friends of Washington we've done extensive research and chosen four candidates (listed below and on our website) to support now. This is important team building time for these campaigns. Early donations now will have the most impact.

Continuing with our once a month update, today we feature Claire Wilson running for a very flippable seat in Legislative District 30. Consider a donation to Claire today.

Meet Claire Wilson

The current state senator from LD30, Mark Miloscia, has done nothing to address the changing needs of the people in the District. LD 30 went 57% for Clinton in 2016, so all watchers consider this a key flip possibility.

Wilson developed strong campaign skills working last year as the manager of Michelle Ryland’s campaign in neighboring LD 31. This year Wilson is running her own race, with plans to knock on 12,000 doors herself.

What’s on her district’s mind, other than education? Wilson says that LD 30 has seen little public transportation relief so far from the Sound Transit 3 bond that was passed in 2016. “Light rail, highway improvements, people feel like we’re not getting everything we need.” Finding reliable, affordable medical insurance is also a big concern for many residents. “Health care is huge," she says. "We have many seniors and families with young children who need affordable health care.” On the school board, Wilson has learned to work across party and interest-group lines. “I create legislation so that the greatest number of people get a say.”

So consider making a contribution to Wilson today. Give her the resources she'll need to flip this seat blue. Visit her site here.

Three other Key State Legislative Races in 2018

Mona Das LD #47. This district is just south of Renton/Kent (mainly Covington and Auburn.) This district went 54% for Clinton in 2016. The Republican incumbent, Joe Fain, is rated very favorably by the NRA. Give to Mona Das today by clicking here.

Bill Ramos running LD #5 (Maple Valley, Issaquah, North Bend, Preston, Fall City, Carnation)  The Republican in that seat, Jay Rodne, won with only 52% of the vote in 2016. He is retiring. Bill Ramos' site is here.

Mari Leavitt LD #28 (southwest of Tacoma, University Place, Lakewood.) The Republican incumbent is Dick Muri who won with only 52% in 2016 against Mari Leavitt, who had entered the race late. Clinton won the district with 53%. This time Leavitt is running a much stronger campaign. Donate to Mari Leavitt here.

Sincerely,
Your friends at Friends of Washington
www.friendsofwashington.org