Washington Bikes announces 2020 general election endorsements
Endorsing Candidates for Elected Office
Our criteria: Washington Bikes endorsed legislators who have led or partnered on efforts to create safer streets, increase accessibility to trails, improve healthy communities and health outcomes, and contribute to the economic vitality of Washington’s communities. Additionally, Washington Bikes has endorsed first time candidates who share our vision for lowering the barriers to bicycling for all ages and abilities.
Washington Bikes works to secure funding for bicycle infrastructure and policies that increase access and safety. To make that happen, it matters who Washington’s elected leaders are and that’s why Washington Bikes spends time connecting with candidates and making endorsements.
Ballot Measure Endorsements
Washington Bikes and its affiliate, Cascade Bicycle club, have endorsed two local ballot measures, one in Seattle and one in Bellingham. The Seattle Transit Benefit District, or Proposition 1 on your ballot, will renew revenue sources that are set to expire in 2020; $50 million are raised annually though portions of sales tax and car registration to improve transit availability and access. At a time when vulnerable communities are already being left behind due to COVID-19, we cannot let people’s access to transit disappear due to cuts in funding.
In Bellingham, the Transportation Fund, or Prop 2020-14, is on the ballot for renewal. The Bellingham Transportation Fund appropriates a portion of sales tax for citywide transportation projects. The revenue source was established in 2010 and is set to expire this year. The revenue funds street projects including, street paving, sidewalks, bike lanes and bus service. More Bellingham residents are biking than ever before, and this renewal will keep us walking, biking, and riding.
The Washington Bikes endorsement speaks to thousands of engaged Washingtonians statewide who care about a range of issues. From wanting more connected trails, to safer neighborhood streets, to more opportunities for physical activity, Washingtonians are looking for leaders and policies that will advance these priorities. Check out the cheat sheet below.
With just a few weeks until Election Day, we are in the final stretch! Are you ready to vote? Register if you are new to WA or have recently moved through the Washington Secretary of State’s office. If not, you have until eight days ahead of Election Day to register online or by mail.
Curious what will appear on your November ballot? Check out your sample ballot at Ballotpedia. Lastly, Washington is a vote-by-mail state, so expect your ballot in the mail in roughly two weeks.
Because turnout is expected to be high this election, we recommend you drop off your ballot or mail it in as quickly as possible to ensure you are counted!
