Wilson has been elected countywide three times as county assessor and will focus on public safety, the county’s paramount duty.

SEATTLE, Wash. – King County Assessor John Wilson announced that he will seek election in 2025 as the next King County Executive following Dow Constantine’s announcement that he will not seek another term. Wilson has been recognized as an ‘activist assessor’ through his steadfast advocacy in Olympia, fighting for property tax relief for county residents—especially seniors and veterans.

“As I travel around the county, I hear from residents that they are most concerned about three things: crime, housing, and taxes,” said Wilson. “While all are critical, crime is at the top of nearly everyone’s list. Fighting crime and making our communities safer will be my top priority as King County Executive.”

Wilson highlighted the alarming increase in violent crime, noting that murders have risen by 59% over the past five years. “People don’t feel safe in their own communities,” he stated. “We should be more concerned about crime victims than criminals. Our criminal justice system, which accounts for almost 80% of the county’s budget, is overwhelmed and failing – dangerously.”

To combat this trend, Wilson proposes a comprehensive approach that includes:

  • Increasing Law Enforcement Personnel: Hiring more police officers to ensure adequate coverage and rapid response times.
  • Expanding Mental Health Services: Providing more mental health counselors to address the root causes of crime and support rehabilitation.
  • Strengthening the Legal System: Adding more prosecutors, public defenders, and corrections officers to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the justice system.

“Common sense tells us that a thriving community is a safe community,” Wilson emphasized. “Everyone deserves compassion, but without safety, we fail our children, our elders, and all who are at risk. We don’t have to be like that other Washington.”

Wilson also addressed the need for resources to match the county’s growing population and crime rates. “Population and crime have increased, but funding hasn’t kept pace. Just ask anyone in the criminal justice system,” he said.

As a proven change agent and leader, Wilson promises not to maintain the status quo but to enact meaningful reforms. “I’m not running because it’s my turn or because I need a springboard to another office,” he declared. “In fact, I’ll propose term limits for the County Executive. I’m running to get things done.”

In addition to tackling crime, Wilson is committed to making King County more affordable and ensuring it remains a great place to live. “Together, we can make King County safer, more affordable, and vibrant for all residents,” he concluded.

Learn more about John Wilson and his campaign at ElectJohnWilson.com.

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