Seattle is about to find out how progressive it really is as a surprisingly close mayoral election pits the moderate incumbent against a community organizer campaigning to raise taxes on companies and wealthy residents.
Katie Wilson, who’s challenging Mayor Bruce Harrell, is looking to raise revenue to close the city’s budget deficit, which requires some creativity since income taxes aren’t allowed in Washington State. Her proposals, designed to keep the burden off low earners, include a penalty for landlords with vacant storefronts or homes, a levy on professional services and a city tax on capital gains.
Katie Wilson at a campaign event on Oct. 18.
Source: Sarah Kusz/Wilson campaign
The race ...
