The August 6th primary elections in Washington state have set the stage for a consequential November, particularly for the Pacific Northwest’s fragile ecosystems and Indigenous communities. As candidates advance, their policies will play a pivotal role in shaping the health of salmon populations, the future of Native spirituality, and the pursuit of sovereignty for Indigenous peoples.

The primary outcomes revealed a diverse array of candidates with varying platforms. Environmental protection, Relationships with Indigenous communities, and policy approaches, underscoring the need for voters to consider the broader implications of their choices this November.

Salmon are a symbol of the Pacific Northwest, integral not just to the environment but also to local economies and cultural identities. The candidates’ stances on environmental issues will significantly influence the health of salmon populations.

U.S. Senate

Winner: Maria Cantwell DEM.

• In summarizing Maria Cantwell's environmental policy, it's clear that she deeply values Washington's natural beauty and is committed to protecting it for future generations. Her advocacy for the permanent funding of the Land and Water Conservation Fund through the Great American Outdoors Act highlights her dedication to conserving public lands. Cantwell’s focus on addressing maintenance backlogs in national parks and wildlife refuges further demonstrates her commitment to preserving these vital resources.
• She promotes renewable energy initiatives, emphasizing the importance of transitioning to solar, wind, and biofuels while ensuring fuel efficiency in vehicles. Additionally, her strong stance against the privatization of Bonneville public power shows her commitment to maintaining public control over essential resources. Overall, her policies reflect a comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship, balancing conservation with sustainable economic growth.

Raul Garcia GOP 

• Raul Garcia, as a GOP candidate, has a website that seems to lack substantial information on environmental policies. Unlike many candidates who prioritize clear stances on issues like climate change, conservation, and renewable energy, Garcia's site does not address these critical topics.
• Without detailed policy proposals or a vision for addressing environmental challenges, it’s difficult for constituents to understand how Garcia would approach the pressing issues affecting Washington’s landscapes and communities.

Washington 5th District Representative

Winner: Michael Baumgartner GOP

• Michael Baumgartner, as a GOP candidate, has not provided any environmental policy details on his website. This absence of information is notable, especially in a state like Washington, where environmental issues such as climate change, conservation, and the protection of natural resources are critical to many voters.
• The lack of an articulated environmental agenda could leave constituents wondering how he intends to approach these pressing issues if elected.

Carmela Conroy DEM

• Carmela Conroy, as a Democratic candidate,  currently lacks substantial information on her website regarding environmental policy and the protection of salmon. Without specific policies or commitments outlined on her website, voters are left with questions about her approach to protecting these essential resources and ensuring the health of our ecosystems. This gap in her platform could hinder her ability to connect with environmentally-conscious constituents seeking a candidate who prioritizes sustainability and wildlife protection.

Governor

Winner Bob Ferguson DEM

• Bob Ferguson is committed to partnering with Washington tribes to protect salmon, address climate change, and uphold tribal sovereignty. He focuses on critical issues like the Indian Child Welfare Act, the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women, and the opioid epidemic.
• As an avid outdoor enthusiast, Ferguson prioritizes environmental protection. As Attorney General, he established the Environmental Protection Division and achieved over fifty convictions for environmental crimes. He notably took on Monsanto for polluting waterways, winning nearly $100 million, and successfully sued the federal government to expedite the Hanford nuclear facility clean-up, as well as defending crucial climate protections against the Trump Administration. His policies reflect a strong commitment to both environmental stewardship and social justice.

Dave Reichert GOP

• Dave Reichert, as a GOP candidate, notably does not address environmental issues, salmon protection, or partnerships with tribes on his website. Without any mention of policies related to conservation or collaboration with Indigenous tribes, it raises questions about his commitment to addressing these pressing concerns. Voters who prioritize environmental protection and the rights of tribal nations may find it difficult to gauge Reichert's stance or intentions regarding these important issues. This absence of a clear agenda could hinder his ability to connect with constituents who value sustainable practices and the protection of natural resources.

Lieutenant Governor

Winner: Denny Heck DEM

• Denny Heck emphasizes his commitment to combating climate change, mentioning his role as the first member of the congressional delegation to sign the carbon fee and dividend bill. However, he does not provide specific policies aimed at protecting salmon populations on his website.
• While his focus on climate change is important, the absence of targeted initiatives for salmon conservation raises concerns. Voters who prioritize both climate action and the protection of salmon may be looking for a more comprehensive plan that explicitly addresses the challenges facing these vital fish populations.

Dan Matthews GOP

• Dan Matthews does not provide specific policies aimed at protecting the environment on his website. However, he does touch on a section titled "Safeguard Our  Future," which includes a commitment to "Save our dams." While this mention suggests a focus on water infrastructure, it lacks a broader environmental agenda or concrete initiatives for conservation and sustainability.
• Voters concerned about environmental issues may find this limited approach insufficient, especially given the urgent challenges facing ecosystems and natural resources. A more comprehensive outline that addresses key topics such as climate change, salmon protection, and habitat conservation would be important for constituents looking for strong environmental leadership.

Attorney General

Winner: Pete Serrano GOP

• As Washington's Attorney General, Pete aims to further environmental stewardship by promoting clean and efficient energy solutions. He recognizes that protecting the planet and advancing energy infrastructure are interconnected goals essential for fostering a greener, more sustainable Washington. His policies reflect a commitment to balancing environmental protection with the development of innovative energy practices.

Nick Brown DEM

• Nick Brown emphasizes the critical importance of environmental protection in his policies, highlighting his pride in working alongside Governor Inslee to advance state climate initiatives. He believes that Washington has some of the strongest climate laws in the nation, and he is committed to ensuring their effective implementation and enforcement. As Attorney General, Brown aims to integrate environmental protection into every aspect of government, vigorously defend these laws, and utilize all available tools to safeguard future generations from the impacts of climate change.
• Additionally, Brown recognizes the significance of partnering with the 29 tribes in Washington. He asserts that the Attorney General’s Office must prioritize protecting tribal sovereignty and enforcing treaty rights. By fostering government-to-government communication and amplifying Native voices, he aims to ensure that Indigenous perspectives are respected and included in environmental and legal discussions throughout the state.

For many Indigenous tribes, salmon are deeply entwined with cultural and spiritual identity. The implications of primary results and candidate policies extend far beyond environmental issues, touching on the very essence of Indigenous life.

• Cultural Preservation: Candidates who champion tribal sovereignty and recognize Indigenous knowledge contribute to the preservation of traditional practices tied to salmon. This recognition encourages a holistic approach to stewardship.
• Sovereignty and Land Rights: Supporting policies that affirm tribal land rights empowers Indigenous communities to manage their resources according to their cultural values, reinforcing their spiritual connection to the land and salmon.

As the November elections approach, Washington voters must recognize the weight of their choices. Supporting candidates who prioritize environmental sustainability and Indigenous rights is essential for fostering a balanced and equitable future.

Voters are encouraged to engage with candidates, attend community forums, and advocate for policies that protect both the environment and Indigenous sovereignty. Informed participation is key to shaping a future that honors the region’s natural resources and its original caretakers.

The results of the 2024 Washington state primary offer a critical opportunity to reflect on the interconnectedness of salmon health, Indigenous rights, and cultural integrity. As we move toward November, it is imperative to champion policies that promote environmental justice and recognize the profound significance of salmon to both the ecosystem and Native communities. Together, we can help forge a future that respects the land and honors its first peoples.