Showing Up Everywhere

We’re now less than a month away from the primary election and the energy is building. More and more people are tuning in, asking questions, and getting involved. It’s been a great week on the campaign trail, and I’ve been spending as much time as I can out doorbelling and listening to voters across the city.

This past weekend was the 4th of July, which is one of my favorite holidays. I love the sense of community and celebration that comes with it and spent time both along the waterfront and on the doorstep enjoying great conversations with people who love the City of Destiny. 

Before I get to this week’s story from the trail, I also wanted to share my recent appearance on the Citizen Tacoma podcast. Erik Hanberg asked some great questions about why I’m running and what I hope to accomplish as mayor. If you’ve got time to check it out, I hope you’ll give it a listen (which you can do here) you’ll also get a chance to hear how my vision for Tacoma compares to the other candidates in the race.

Now for the story.

This week, I spent time knocking on doors in Northeast Tacoma. It’s a part of the city I don’t currently represent on the council, but one I’m committed to showing up in. I had a memorable conversation with Jim, a resident who spoke honestly about feeling a bit isolated (he asked if I was running for Mayor of Federal Way). He shared concerns about roads, fire coverage, and the basic services that every neighborhood deserves.

He also raised concerns about bus service and mobility, an issue I’ve worked on as a Pierce Transit Commissioner. Reliable transportation is essential,especially in Northeast Tacoma where there are very limited options, and we need to do a better job of aligning our housing growth with access to transit and services.

As I told Jim, and as I’ve said many times: I believe every neighborhood deserves attention, investment, and support. Whether you live in Northeast Tacoma, the South or East Sides, Hilltop, or the West and North Ends which I currently represent, you deserve a city government that shows up and follows through.

Last year I walked across the entire city, every neighborhood, every corner, and on the council I have committed to being present and responsive to everyone (even people who have never voted for me). And as I run for mayor, I’m continuing that effort. I love how each Tacoma neighborhood has its own identity and strengths, and I want to be the kind of mayor who celebrates that and ensures no neighborhood is left behind.

Thanks for being with me on this journey. I’ll see you out there.