By Michael Fertakis for Runta News – Seattle, WA
King County Councilmember Girmay Zahilay expressed gratitude for Executive Dow Constantine’s dedicated service to King County following Constantine’s announcement yesterday that he will not seek re-election after his term ends in 2025.
“Executive Constantine has dedicated his career to serving the people of King County, starting with his election to the Washington State Legislature in 1997, followed by his time on the King County Council, and now as County Executive for the past 15 years,” Zahilay said. “He has left his mark on our region in ways that will benefit our communities for generations to come. I look forward to working closely with him throughout the remainder of his term and beyond to ensure that every resident of King County has what they need to thrive.”
Zahilay highlighted several of Constantine’s achievements, underscoring his contributions to King County’s public transit system through his leadership at King County Metro and as Chair of the Sound Transit Board. He also noted Constantine’s dedication to preserving and growing the region’s arts and culture sectors, citing his leadership in securing $800 million in funding for the County’s cultural access program, Doors Open.
Reflecting on one of the most challenging times in recent history, Zahilay praised Constantine’s steady leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that his guidance helped protect lives when King County became the epicenter of the outbreak in the United States. “Dow’s commitment to public health and safety during those early, uncertain days of the pandemic was instrumental in setting an example for the nation,” Zahilay said.
On a personal note, Zahilay appreciated partnering with Constantine on critical issues, including their work together on transforming the region’s behavioral health system through the Crisis Care Centers Levy, as well as collaborating on various gun violence prevention strategies that have strengthened community safety.
In addition to thanking Executive Constantine for his dedication and service to King County, Zahilay also announced that he is strongly considering a run for King County Executive next year. “With Dow Constantine’s announcement and a new federal administration, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment for our region,” said Zahilay. “I’m incredibly honored by the community support and encouragement I’ve received from across King County, and I’m grateful to the leaders and residents who have let me know they would support my campaign. I am strongly considering a run for King County Executive and will be spending the coming weeks speaking with community members, advocates, and my family as I make this decision. I look forward to sharing my plans soon.”
Michael Fertakis is the press relations person at Upper Left Strategist media company.
