We were happy to have State Senator Pramila Jayapal, King County Councilmember Joe McDermott, and State Representative Brady Walkinshaw come up with real answers to the tough questions their constituents have. The 7th Congressional District Debate focused mainly on the issues that are important to us here at Working Washington: workers’ rights, income equality, and whether or not Donald Trump is a fascist (3/3 candidates answered YES!).
They did more than just gloss over what’s affecting our lives, however. Each candidate searched into their records to show just how important the everyday issues are to them--and how they’d apply their experience in D.C . Representative Walkinshaw spoke about his willingness to push through legislation that would allow felons to get work more easily. Councilmember McDermott spoke about his commitment to including organizing principles in the work his office does, and pointed to a broad coalition he has built to do that. Senator Jayapal spoke about how much she values raising minimum wage across the state and, just as importantly, creating equal pay for women.
And what’s a forum without mixing it up with the crowd? Constituents had the chance to prepare questions beforehand, and our own members Martina and Taylor Phelps struck a note with the candidates--and the crowd--by asking a pointed question about the challenges of income inequality, in particular for women of color. Others asked a wide array of questions, mostly focusing on the very issues Working Washington is helping address as well.
And since Working Washington was in the house, there was time for fun too! In the lightning round, Working Washington Executive Director Sejal Parikh asked candidates about their favorite movements, favorite moments, and favorite cities. But more importantly, we got a sense of how the candidates felt on a wide array of national issues. Seeing support all across the board for Black Lives Matter was a great moment, and all of the candidates said that they too have all worked for minimum wage.
It was a great event, but don’t take our word for it. Check out the livestream here. And you know what the funny thing is about live streaming? It’s not free. So don’t leave someone out of luck who’s only dream in life is to watch our next candidate livestream! Brighten their future by donating monthly, ensuring the livestream can continue to burn brightly for all time, no matter where you are. As in starting today. Now. Here.
See you at the next debate!