The LD 26 Democrats Executive Board has completed interviews with Democratic candidates for the following positions and is recommending the listed candidates for endorsement. This will be part of the Thursday, June 5 General Meeting agenda and we will be asking the membership to vote on endorsing.

Endorsements requiring questionnaire (view questionnaires here):

Deb Krishnadasan, State Senator, 26th Legislative District

Executive Summary – Endorsement Interview

• Principled Leadership Focused on Working Families: Deb is committed to advancing progressive goals while standing firm against policies that disproportionately impact working people. She voted against state budgets she believes burdened families and continues to advocate for fair tax reform and immediate relief, including sales tax adjustments.
• Targeted, Grassroots Outreach Strategy: Deb is actively expanding her campaign presence through consistent doorbelling and listening tours. She’s hearing concerns about taxes, education, housing, and job security, and is focused on delivering responsive, local leadership to meet those needs.
• Strong Ground Game and Broad Appeal: With a seasoned campaign team, successful fundraising across party lines, and a growing volunteer network, Deb is running a disciplined, people-powered campaign. She plans to engage in public forums and contrasts her record with her opponent’s while highlighting bipartisan support and practical solutions.

Emily Stone, Gig Harbor City Council Position 3

Executive Summary – Endorsement Interview

• Policy Expertise & Community Connection: Emily Stone, appointed to the council less than six months ago, brings a strong background in public policy, social work, and housing advocacy. She has served six legislative sessions in Olympia and currently works at the Washington State Department of Commerce focusing on housing and homelessness. Stone’s deep family ties to Gig Harbor and lived experience with housing instability shape her commitment to affordability and community support.
• Fresh Perspective & Inclusive Representation: As one of the youngest and few renters on a historically affluent and homeowner-dominated council, Stone offers a critical and underrepresented voice. Nearly 45% of Gig Harbor residents are renters, yet their interests are largely overlooked. Stone emphasizes transparency, accessibility, and proactive civic engagement, aiming to better connect the public with city governance and decisions.

Julie Martin, Gig Harbor City Council Position 4

Executive Summary – Endorsement Interview

• Experienced and Service-Oriented Leader: Julie brings a strong background in public administration and executive management, along with local governance experience as a Planning Commission member and City Council appointee. She emphasizes transparency, research-driven decision-making, and long-term planning for the city’s 13,000 residents.

Jonathan Appleton, Peninsula School District Board of Directors (District 5)

Executive Summary – Endorsement Interview

• Committed Parent with Professional Expertise: A Washington native and father of adopted twins in the district, Jonathan brings 25 years of leadership and financial management experience. As a hands-on parent and local church leader, he offers both personal and professional investment in improving Gig Harbor schools.
• Champion for Transparency, Inclusion, and Accountability: Motivated by concerns over inconsistent policies on discrimination and harassment, Jonathan is committed to updating school practices, improving board communication, and fostering an inclusive environment for all students—especially underrepresented groups.
• Fresh Leadership Focused on Collaboration and Civility: Jonathan aims to strengthen board-superintendent relations, promote proactive planning, and model respectful leadership. He offers a positive, student-centered alternative to the status quo and believes parents should have a seat at the table.

Candidates previously endorsed by LD26 Dems (do not require questionnaires):

• Mary Barber, Mayor, Gig Harbor
• Michael Goodnow, Bremerton City Council
• Brian Pickard, South Kitsap School Board
• John McCarthy, Port of Tacoma
• Linda Perry, Key Peninsula Parks Department
• Mark Michel, Key Peninsula Parks Department