Councilmember Mosqueda First Candidate to Qualify for Seattle Democracy Voucher Program

SEATTLE– Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda is the first candidate in 2021 to qualify for the Democracy Voucher Program after receiving well over the required 400 donations and 400 signatures from Seattle residents. This is Mosqueda’s second time qualifying for Democracy Vouchers. In 2017, Mosqueda was the first, first time candidate to participate in, and win a campaign, using Seattle’s public campaign financing program.

Mosqueda announced her re-election campaign less than a month ago and with broad community support and  quickly qualified for the program. She has raised nearly $30,000 from over 635 donors, an average donation of just over $44 a person, emphasizing the importance of small-donor contributions and public campaign financing. Mosqueda — a longtime labor leader and advocate for children and families — will continue her focus on issues facing working people, families, and small businesses if re-elected.

“Democracy Vouchers allow all Seattle residents to have a voice in local elections, to support candidates of their choosing, regardless of their economic status,” said Mosqueda. “This program is an innovative tool of political enfranchisement that I am honored to continue to prove that the voucher program works, is needed, and is changing elections as we know it.  Too often, there are barriers that affect residents’ ability to participate in local elections, discouraging engagement, and leaving folks out. Democracy Vouchers change that. The tremendous early support I have received across Seattle is humbling, and a reflection of my commitment to center policymaking on equity and opportunity for all Seattle residents.”

Mosqueda’s record of advocacy and strong support for those facing short and long term financial and housing security issues in the ongoing pandemic is reflected in her many early endorsements from community and elected leaders.

“Teresa puts people– including those most impacted by the policies, by the pandemic, by systemic racism– first, and she works hard for Seattle and all of its residents,” said human and immigrant rights advocate and leader Rich Stolz. “Teresa’s leadership is precisely what Seattle’s City Council needs at a time that requires leaders who listen and think creatively about how to put government to work for people and communities.”

“In her time on City Council, Teresa has been a true champion for working families, particularly for those that are often neglected, made invisible, and have no protections,” said State Senator Rebecca Saldaña (D-37th District). “From domestic workers to gig workers, she has been there.”

In 2017, Democracy Vouchers made up two-thirds of Mosqueda’s campaign fundraising total and Mosqueda was the first, first-time candidate in the nation to win with a publicly financed campaign program.

For a complete list of endorsements or to learn more, visit TeamTeresa.org

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