King County Executive Dow Constantine announced on Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024 that he will not seek re-election in 2025, ending his tenure after more than 15 years in the role.
Constantine, who was first sworn in as executive in November 2009, emphasized his dedication to King County and expressed pride in his administration’s accomplishments.
“It was 15 years ago this month that I was sworn in as executive, and it remains an honor, every day, to serve the people of King County,” Constantine said in a statement. “My priority was then – and still is today – that every person should be able to thrive, be economically secure, and contribute to the life of our community.”
During his time as executive, Constantine focused on addressing systemic inequities, expanding access to opportunities, and protecting public health and the environment. He highlighted efforts to tackle issues such as systemic racism, sexism, and other injustices, describing his work as both challenging and deeply rewarding.
“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve in this role, but it’s time to let a new leader take the reins and build on the work we have done,” Constantine added. He affirmed that while he will be stepping down, his commitment to King County will remain strong.
As he enters his final year in office, Constantine pledged to continue focusing on key initiatives, including transit and transportation, climate action, behavioral health, affordable housing, and arts and culture. He emphasized his hope that King County will remain on a path of progress and inclusivity.
“I look forward to continuing to focus on our critical work of transit and transportation, climate action, behavioral health, affordable housing, arts and culture, and all we do to create a community where every person can thrive,” he said. “Together, we will keep building on the progress we have made.”
Constantine’s announcement opens the field for the 2025 race to lead King County, which encompasses the Seattle metropolitan area and serves more than two million residents. His decision not to run marks a significant transition in county leadership as potential successors prepare to announce their intentions.
King County Councilmembers Respond
King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski issued the following statement Tuesday after King County Executive Dow Constantine announced he would not seek re-election:
“Executive Constantine has transformed King County government into a powerful force for good, focused on lifting up those who have too often been left behind and left out – children, immigrants, refugees, those without economic power, and all of us who will suffer the impacts of climate change. As a result, King County stands as a beacon of hope and a model of what’s possible, for all of America. I thank him for his principled leadership of our government and look forward to his continued leadership in our region’s civic life.”
King County Councilmember Girmay Zahilay also expressed gratitude for Constantine:
“Executive Constantine has dedicated his career to serving the people of King County, starting with his election to the Washington State Legislature in 1997, followed by his time on the King County Council, and now as County Executive for the past 15 years,” Zahilay said. “He has left his mark on our region in ways that will benefit our communities for generations to come. I look forward to working closely with him throughout the remainder of his term and beyond to ensure that every resident of King County has what they need to thrive.
In addition to thanking Executive Constantine for his dedication and service to King County, Zahilay also announced that he is strongly considering a run for King County Executive next year.
“With Dow Constantine’s announcement and a new federal administration, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment for our region,” said Zahilay. “I’m incredibly honored by the community support and encouragement I’ve received from across King County, and I’m grateful to the leaders and residents who have let me know they would support my campaign. I am strongly considering a run for King County Executive and will be spending the coming weeks speaking with community members, advocates, and my family as I make this decision. I look forward to sharing my plans soon.”
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