Washington Voters Repeal Millionaires Tax, Back Transit Measure

A Shift in the Evergreen State: Washington Midterms Deliver Wins for Democrats, Transit, and Local Races

Washington voters have spoken, delivering a series of decisive midterm election results that echo national trends while making clear, local priorities. The outcomes, as reported by FOX 13 Seattle, show a state leaning into Democratic control, rejecting a tax on the wealthy, and overwhelmingly approving a major investment in its public transit future.

The Battle for the 3rd District

One of the most-watched races nationally played out right here in Washington. Democratic incumbent Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez secured her reelection in the state’s 3rd Congressional District, defeating Republican challenger and state Sen. John Braun. The contest was considered one of only 18 pure toss-up seats across all 435 congressional districts nationwide. Gluesenkamp Perez, who initially flipped the seat for Democrats in 2022, successfully defended it against a challenge from Braun, who received a Trump endorsement.

Marie Gluesenkamp Perez declares victory in Midterm race for Washington's 3rd Congressional District

“We are historically a pretty independent people in Southwest Washington. We’re far away from the big centers of power and we like it that way,” Gluesenkamp Perez said. “I know where my loyalty is. I’m flying home to see my son and my husband and my community every three or four days.”

A Tale of Three Initiatives

Washington voters made their voices heard on three major statewide ballot measures, with results showing a state divided on social issues but united in its support for funding transportation.

Initiative 001, the “Parents’ Bill of Rights,” is leaning toward defeat with 52.6% of voters against it. The measure would have expanded parental access to school instructional materials, medical records, and counseling files.

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In a more decisive outcome, Initiative 638, which bars transgender athletes from competing in female K-12 sports teams and requires healthcare providers to verify biological sex for student athletes, has passed with 56.6% of voters in favor.

Meanwhile, the state’s wealthiest residents will continue to pay the 9.9% tax on household income over $1 million. Initiative 645, which sought to repeal this “millionaires tax,” is failing with 57.9% of voters against it.

2026 WA midterm elections results | FOX 13 Seattle

A Clear Mandate for Seattle Transit

Nowhere was the local focus more apparent than in Seattle, where voters strongly backed Proposition 1, the 2026 Seattle Transit Measure. The measure, which is on pace to pass, was approved by 72.6% of voters. It doubles the city’s sales tax rate from 0.15% to 0.3%, with funding dedicated to expanding city bus service, safety upgrades, and light rail projects. It’s expected to generate an estimated $138 million over a decade, a direct investment from residents into the future of their city’s mobility.

The Judicial Landscape

Position	Leading Candidate	Vote Share
Position 1	Justice Colleen Melody	59.9%
Position 3	Judge Jaime Michelle Hawk	57.7%
Position 5	Justice Theo Angelis	55.4%
Position 7	Chief Justice Debra Stephens	63.6%

The final picture of Washington’s midterm elections is still taking shape. County auditors will process additional ballots daily, with new numbers expected around 4 p.m. Thursday. Official election results will be certified by the Secretary of State on Dec. 3.