Join me this Tuesday, December 13th, to celebrate my reelection and help me retire my campaign debt! I would love to see you there.

Click here for a map and to get directions!

Time: 5:30
Location: Wine World Warehouse – 400 NE 45th (right off I-5 at 45th St.  Free parking!).
Suggested minimum donation: $50

Can’t wait to see you there!

RSVP to mckenna@mckennahartman.com

The results are in, and I am so honored to be leading with 54% of the vote.

I want to thank all of you who made this achievement possible. This was never a campaign about me – rather, it was always about those who supported and believed in what this campaign stood for. It was about our vision of Seattle.

A special thank you to the supporters who were there with me from day one. Supporters like the Fire Fighters and the Washington Conservation Voters. And thank you to the many unions who endorsed this campaign. At last count 22 unions stood behind me – and the solid, unwavering help of the M.L. King County Labor Council was invaluable. Thank you to the business leaders who lent their support (more than 250 of them). And to the Democratic organizations that share my progressive values.

And, most importantly, thank you to each of you. You all chipped in one way or another and I would not be here without your help. From the bottom of my heart, thank you all.

When I first ran, in 2003, I never thought I’d serve 2 terms, let alone 3. But what I’ve learned over the past 8 years is that there is so much to do – and though it is sometimes tough, and sometimes discouraging – when we work hard we are able to accomplish amazing things.

I have such a burning passion for working to make this City the best. I hope you will come along with me to make it the model for all others – a city that cares for its citizens, natives and newcomers alike. A City that reveres its education, arts, libraries, parks, and, yes, its sports and contemporary culture as well. The kind of city that people are drawn to, that promises prosperity, fulfillment of our dreams, and a good quality of life for all.

Again, thank you. Now let’s get to work!

Today we say goodbye to the late Scott White, a state legislator who was taken from us much too soon. The state is much the poorer for the loss. Like many of his constituents in the 46th district, I am in mourning over Scott’s passing, both for personal reasons and because I believe he had achieved much in his short years in the Legislature and was destined for a brilliant political career.

First a personal note: When I resigned my job as a newspaper columnist in July 2003, I entered the council race too late to compete for Democratic District endorsements, including, much to my sorrow, my own home district, the 46th. But Scott, district chair at the time, graciously welcomed me, introduced me to district members, and allowed me to address the membership. It was a kindness I will never forget.

An inspiring leader, Scott brought immense energy to the district, building memberships, inculcating Democratic values and conducting meetings with an open, evenhanded efficiency.

As an elected representative, filling former Rep. Jim McIntyre’s shoes, he began the difficult work of representing the 46th District and putting forward issues that mattered most to Seattle. He continued that work in the state Senate, sponsoring issues like regulation of limousines and progress on the Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement.

He was a faithful participant along with Rep. Phyllis Keeney and newcomer Rep. David Frockt in 46th District open houses. The state has been facing some exceeding difficult economic challenges; but, for constituents, knowing that the district has had hardworking, caring legislators matters greatly.

For someone relatively new to the Legislature, Scott White was uncommonly gifted at achieving results and at advancing Seattle’s agenda. It is small wonder that he had already been chosen as the Senate’s majority whip. At the South end viaduct demolition event recently, Gov. Christine Gregoire paid a well-deserved tribute to Scott White, saying that the opening of the waterfront will be his legacy. He will continue to be our inspiration.

A memorial service for Senator Scott White will take place today at 1 PM at Meany Hall on the University of Washington campus. All are welcome to attend. Donations can be made to the Scott White Memorial Fund, an education fund established for his two children:

Wells Fargo Bank
Scott White Memorial Fund
PO Box 95675
Seattle, WA 98145-2675

Another great endorsement: The Northwest Asian Weekly! The Weekly joins the Seattle Times, Seattle Gay News, and the Seattle Medium in recommending Jean Godden for another term.

Yesterday, the Seattle Times announced its support of Jean Godden’s reelection, writing that Jean has “done a steady job on the budget and voted sensibly” during her first two terms. Don’t forget that ballots need to be postmarked by November 8th! Vote for Jean and get that ballot in the mail!