KING COUNTY, Wash. — King County Executive Dow Constantine announced Tuesday evening he will not seek reelection next year.
Constantine was elected the King County executive in 2009 when he defeated Susan Hutchinson by nearly 20% of the vote.
“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 release Tuesday evening. "I ran for Executive because I care deeply about this region where I was raised and the people who live and work here. 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.
"I am grateful for the progress we have made, striving for a better government and a fairer, more just society. We have built more access to opportunity, taken action to safeguard the health of our environment and our people and set ourselves to the task of identifying and dismantling the systemic racism, sexism, and all the injustices that hold our nation back."
In a release, Constantine said it is time for a new leader to take over as King County executive and build on what he achieved during his tenure.
Constantine, a Seattle native and fourth-generation Washingtonian, served three terms as King County executive. Before running for county executive, Constantine served in the state House and Senate. He was appointed to the King County Council in 2022 and won election four times.
He graduated from West Seattle High School and the University of Washington.
Before he leaves office, Constantine said he would continue to focus on areas like transit, climate, behavioral health and housing.
"While my time as King County Executive will conclude next year, my commitment to this place will be as strong as ever," Constantine said. "King County must stay the course of progress – this year, next year, and beyond– always advancing toward a future worthy of every person who is here today, and all who will follow."