Special Legislative Races Updated: August 6, 2025

With initial returns from Washington’s August primary now in, several special legislative races offer early insight into voter sentiment, especially on ideological divides within the Democratic Party, and the durability of appointed lawmakers. While the outcomes won’t shift majority control in Olympia, they are sharpening the narrative ahead of the 2026 session. Ballot counting will continue over the coming days. Latest intel suggests statewide turnout should reach 35%, with most counties reporting close to 20% thus far.

Here are the highlights:

• 5th LD – Senate (Hunt v. Magendanz)

Democrat Victoria Hunt holds a 1547 vote, 52.76% to 47.09% lead over Republican Chad Magendanz. Both will advance to November.

• 26th LD – Senate (Krishnadasan v. Caldier)

After returns on August 6, Democrat Deborah Krishnadasan has pulled narrowly ahead of Republican Michelle Caldier by 157 votes or 50.13% to 49.65%. Both will advance to November.

• 48th LD – Senate (Slatter v. Walen)

In the high-profile Democrat-on-Democrat race, Sen. Vandana Slatter is leading Rep. Amy Walen by a large margin: 59.49% to 38.27%. With no Republican in the race, both Democrats will advance to November.

• 33rd LD – House (Obras v. Schilling v. Jones)

Appointed Rep. Edwin Obras (D) leads with 44.8% to challenger Kevin Schilling (D) at 31.73%, while Republican Darryl Jones has garnered 23.25%. Obras and Schilling will both advance to November and will be another D-vs-D race in the general election.

• 41st LD – House

Appointed Rep. Janice Zahn (D) is in a strong position to retain the seat with 63.44%, easily outpacing Republican John Whitney (29.12%) and fellow Democrat Vinita Kak (7.31%).

• 48th LD – House

Appointed Rep. Osman Salahuddin (D) leads with 61.41%, followed by Republican Dennis Ellis (30.14%) and Democrat Ranga Bondada (8.31%). Salahuddin appears poised for a strong general election showing.

Thanks, Trevor