King County Executive Dow Constantine

Dear fellow King County employee,

I know that many of us are feeling anxious and uncertain about the future of our nation and our world right now as we wait for a result in yesterday’s presidential election. For many, the prospect of weeks of recounts and legal actions only compounds what has been some of the most stressful times in our nation’s history, and our own lives.

We must remain patient, vigilant, and steadfast.

The record voter turnout in King County showed that, in this corner of the nation, we are united – to restore decency and rationality to our national politics, and to ensure our community is strong and safe. The presidency wasn’t the only decision on the ballot. I want to thank all those who worked on the Harborview bond measure, and to express my gratitude to the voters of King County who chose to invest in this vitally important regional asset.

Whatever the outcome of the election, we will continue to reject policies that divide us. In King County, we will continue to follow facts and science, and eschew the politics of insult and conflict. We will continue to lead with racial justice in all our work. We will continue to be a place that values women, racial minorities and the disabled, immigrants and refugees, and people of every religion, or of no religion.

Throughout the last four years we have been guided by our values and principles in our work. This approach remains unchanged. We will continue to partner with the local community, businesses, and governments at all levels to move our priorities forward. And we will continue to set an example of what a creative, forward-looking government can be and what it can achieve.

We remain focused on the major challenges facing us: taking urgent action to stop the spread of COVID-19 and protect our communities; joining together to end the scourge of racism, hate, and discrimination that has held back people of color for generations; implementing solutions to combat climate change and its impact on our environment; rebuilding our economy so all people have the opportunity to create a solid future for themselves and their families; providing stable housing for people experiencing homelessness or at risk of experiencing homelessness; ensuring every child gets off to a good start in life.

No matter who is in the White House, we will never stop leading on the issues that matter to us, and America – racial justice, economic opportunity, environmental protection, and the notion that all people should be able to thrive, contribute, and fulfill their potential. We will work with the federal government where we can, and fight it where we must, to protect our values and the rights and dignity of all.

Guided by our True North – Making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive – I submitted a two-year, $12.4 billion budget that provides local and regional services to the 2.26 million residents of King County. This measure funds our priorities, including our anti-racism work and transforming the criminal legal system. I look forward to Council passing this budget in the next few weeks.

I know that tensions continue to run high as we sort out this election and move forward. Remember that there are always people you can reach out to for emotional support. If you need to speak with someone, take the time to reach out to family members, friends, or colleagues. Our Employee Resource/Affinity Groups are a safe place you can go to talk to people with shared interests, issues, and backgrounds. King County provides two services to employees that offer professional support and advice: the Employee Assistance Program and Making Life Easier (username: King County). Both resources are free and confidential.

America may be a house divided, but we are a community united. I know that we will get through this by embracing the future with confidence in our convictions and our values. Please stay safe and keep hope alive.

Sincerely,

Dow Constantine
King County Executive