Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Harrell Holds Early Lead in Seattle Mayoral Rematch as More Ballots Await Count

With tens of thousands of uncounted mail ballots, Seattle’s late-count pattern that favors progressives could reshape the tally.

Seattle mayor Bruce Harrell, left, and mayoral candidate Katie Wilson, right, listen during a climate forum Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Maddy Grassy)
Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell speaks with attendees after a climate forum Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Maddy Grassy)
Seattle mayoral candidate Katie Wilson speaks during a climate forum Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Maddy Grassy)
Seattle mayoral candidate Katie Wilson speaks with attendees after a climate forum Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Maddy Grassy)

Overview

  • Initial election-night results showed Bruce Harrell ahead by roughly 7–8 points, including 53.3% to 46.2% in King County with about 23% of ballots counted statewide.
  • A Wednesday update widened his edge to about 53.8% to 45.7% with roughly 139,000 votes tallied, though analysts cautioned the drop was not decisive.
  • King County reported more than 115,000 Seattle ballots still to process, and local observers noted later ballot drops often move left.
  • Katie Wilson won the August primary by nearly 10 points over Harrell, highlighting the possibility of late-count gains for the challenger.
  • Progressive candidates posted strong early showings in other races, including Erika Evans for city attorney and council contenders Alexis Mercedes Rinck and Dionne Foster.