Seattle, WA – August 6, 2025 – The August 5 primary election results are in, and while final certification won’t happen until mid to late August, the early numbers point to some key shakeups in Seattle and King County politics.
Among the top stories: Girmay Zahilay is leading for King County Executive, Katie Wilson holds a narrow lead over incumbent Mayor Bruce Harrell, and Erika Evans is ahead in the race for Seattle City Attorney.
 |
| Early Results Show Tight Races |
King County Executive: Girmay Zahilay Holds Early Lead
Girmay Zahilay, the current District 2 Councilmember, is leading with 40–41% of the vote in the crowded field for King County Executive. If this trend holds, Zahilay is well-positioned to head into the general election as the frontrunner.
Seattle Mayoral Race: Katie Wilson vs. Bruce Harrell
In one of the most closely watched races, progressive activist Katie Wilson holds a slight lead with 46%, just edging out Mayor Bruce Harrell who has approximately 45%. With Seattle’s typical “blue shift” in late ballot counts favoring progressive candidates, Wilson could maintain or extend this lead.
Seattle City Attorney: Erika Evans at 51%
Public defender Erika Evans leads the city attorney race with 51% of the vote. Her reform-minded campaign appears to be resonating with voters seeking change from traditional law-and-order platforms.
King County Council Races: Mixed Trends
- District 5: Peter Kwon leads with 28%, with the remaining votes split among multiple candidates.
- District 7: Incumbent Pete von Reichbauer holds a dominant lead with 60%, indicating strong support for his long tenure.
Seattle City Council: Fresh Faces in the Lead
Several city council seats show new candidates surging ahead:
- District 2: Eddie Lin leads with 46%, positioning him as a strong contender to replace Tammy Morales.
- Position 8 (At-Large): Alexis Mercedes Rinck has a commanding lead with 75%.
- Position 9 (At-Large): Dionne Foster leads with 54%, a solid early showing in a competitive race.
What Comes Next?
These results are preliminary. In Washington State, mail-in ballots can arrive days after Election Day, and late-counted votes often shift totals, especially in Seattle where progressives tend to gain ground after Election Night.
Final certification of results is expected by mid to late August. For official results and daily updates, visit:
King County ElectionsSummary of Key Early Results (August 5, 2025)
| Race | Leading Candidate | % of Vote |
|---|---|---|
| King County Executive | Girmay Zahilay | 40–41% |
| Seattle Mayor | Katie Wilson | 46% |
| Seattle City Attorney | Erika Evans | 51% |
| County Council District 5 | Peter Kwon | 28% |
| County Council District 7 | Pete von Reichbauer | 60% |
| Seattle City Council District 2 | Eddie Lin | 46% |
| Position 8 (At-Large) | Alexis Mercedes Rinck | 75% |
| Position 9 (At-Large) | Dionne Foster | 54% |
FAQs About the 2025 Seattle & King County Primary
Why are the Seattle results still changing after Election Day?
Washington is a vote-by-mail state, and as long as ballots are postmarked by Election Day, they’re valid. Seattle’s "blue shift" refers to the trend where late-counted ballots often favor progressive candidates.
What is the “blue shift” and why does it matter?
It’s a phenomenon where left-leaning or progressive candidates tend to gain more votes in the days following the initial count. This happens because younger and more progressive voters often vote later or mail ballots closer to the deadline.
When will the final results be confirmed?
The official certification of the 2025 primary election results is expected by mid to late August. Until then, the numbers may continue to shift.
Who is Girmay Zahilay?
Zahilay is currently a King County Councilmember known for progressive reforms and advocacy. He is now leading in the race for King County Executive, which would make him the top county official if elected in November.
Is Bruce Harrell losing his seat as Seattle Mayor?
Not yet. He’s currently in a very close second behind Katie Wilson. Both are expected to advance to the November general election, but who leads going into that race will matter for momentum.
