98% of WCV endorsed candidates move on to November general election
August 3rd, SEATTLE – In a vital state primary that saw five statewide offices with no incumbent, all with multiple candidates from each party with open seats, pro-environmental candidates advanced in major races across the state.
“Last night Washingtonians made it clear that they want representatives who reflect their environmental values,” said Shannon Murphy, President, Washington Conservation Voters. “Our state has a long history of leading on the environment. Reflecting that legacy, voters across the state chose candidates who stand up for public health and building the clean energy economy.”
Highlights from statewide races in the Primary Election:
- Governor Jay Inslee has spent his career dedicated to environmental action and building the clean energy economy. As governor he championed the largest clean energy investment in state history, created a first of its kind pollution protection program for Puget Sound, fought for the state’s greenest transportation package ever, and implemented the Clean Air Rule through executive action. He beat the next nearest candidate by 10 points.
- Hilary Franz, candidate for the state’s highest natural resource office, broke through a crowded field moving on to November’s general election on a platform advocating a new vision for the Department of Natural Resources focusing on addressing climate change and local economies and their environment.
- Senator Cyrus Habib, candidate for Lieutenant Governor, has been an ardent clean energy advocate in the Senate and has aggressively pushed to curb pollution in Washington State. He left the Senate with a lifetime WCV score of 94%. As of Wednesday morning, Senator Habib is within the top two of this crowded 11-person race to move forward to the general election.
- Tina Podlodowski has worked tirelessly throughout her career for public health and environmental justice. Podlodowski understands addressing our states biggest environmental challenges starts with a fair and representative electoral process and continues to make that case to Washington voters. As of Wednesday morning, Podlodowski is within three points of incumbent Secretary Wyman.
Washington’s statewide primary results affirm that voters back candidates who support environmental protection, health, and a transition to a clean economy. In November’s general election, voters will have a distinct environmental choice in the state’s highest offices.
Media Contact:
Nick Abraham, Communications and Accountability Manager
425-761-9368, nick@wcvoters.org