King County

Outlining his priorities, Zahilay spoke of breaking the cycle of addiction and homelessness, building more affordable housing and improving government. He said that will mean getting out in the community more with “boots on the ground.”

The county has until the end of June 2026 to pay for Harbor Island Studios without money from the general fund.

Girmay Zahilay takes office as the new King County executive on Tuesday. His reorganization plans for certain executive offices are already causing concern.

In just two weeks, King County Councilmember Girmay Zahilay will become the boss of more than 18,000 county employees.

Girmay Zahilay, chair of the King County Council, had 53.2% of the vote as of Friday afternoon after a tight race against fellow councilmember Claudia Balducci.

Another round of results released Thursday showed Girmay Zahilay widening his lead over Claudia Balducci in the race for King County executive.

The two finalists are both county councilmembers: Girmay Zahilay from South Seattle and Claudia Balducci of Bellevue.

Voters in Washington will cast ballots for state and local offices and ballot measures in this off-year election.

Claudia Balducci and Girmay Zahilay are running for King County executive. They have different backgrounds, but both serve on the county council and have similar voting records.

While challenger Katie Wilson and incumbent Bruce Harrell both want to use more tiny homes as temporary shelters, Wilson's plan calls for spending more money to get even more people inside.