King County Executive Girmay Zahilay released the following statement on Tuesday night following election results:
“Tonight, voters across the country sent a clear message that they want a different direction for our country. In rejecting President Trump’s divisive policies, the results show that everyday Americans are tired of an agenda that puts the interests of the ultra-wealthy ahead of working families. They are tired of a cruel mass deportation campaign that tears apart families and communities. And they are tired of paying for a costly war abroad instead of investing in the needs of people here at home.
“I hear across King County that more families are struggling to afford to live in their own communities, put food on the table, and pay their bills. They want leaders focused on lowering costs, growing economic opportunity, and building a better future for the next generation.
“Here in Washington, voters echoed that message by preserving an important tool for building a more affordable state with strong schools, reliable public services, and greater opportunity. Keeping the Millionaires Tax moves us toward a more balanced tax system and a stronger foundation for our state’s future.
“Every year, local governments like King County struggle to support essential services and budget priorities, including public safety, road maintenance, and health care, without relying on regressive property and sales taxes. With new progressive revenue, our state can begin to reduce the burden on working families and make generational investments in K-12 education, child care, housing, and more.
“From the national results to the early returns on the Millionaires Tax, tonight’s results suggest that voters want leaders focused on affordability, opportunity, and the needs of working families.
“King County will keep doing that work every day by strengthening essential services, growing economic opportunity, and helping more families build a better future.”