Seattle Hasn't Recalled a Mayor in 95 Years. Here's Who Got the Boot A King County judge is currently reviewing the legal merits of a recall effort targeting Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson, marking the first such challenge in nearly a century. While Seattle voters have historically faced recall campaigns against mayors, the city’s record shows that actual removals from office have been exceptionally rare. The last successful recall occurred in 1931, when Mayor Frank Edwards was ousted, and no mayor has since been removed through a recall vote. The history of mayoral recalls in Seattle dates back to 1911, when Hiram Gill became the first mayor to face such a fate. Gill, Seattle’s first elected mayor, was recalled after a contentious campaign that highlighted accusations of corruption and tolerance for vice. Newspapers of the time criticized him for his policies, which included leniency toward gambling, alcohol sales, and prostitution. Casey McNerthney of the King County Prosecutor’s Office described Gill’s downfall as a response to public frustration, noting that voters ultimately decided they had had enough of his approach. Two decades later, Seattle voters again exercised their recall power in 1931, removing Mayor Frank Edwards. The recall followed a dispute over Edwards’ decision to fire J.D. Ross, a prominent figure at Seattle City Light. Ross was a key leader in developing the city’s infrastructure, including the construction of Ross Lake, which bears his name. McNerthney explained that Edwards’ firing of Ross angered voters, who viewed the move as a betrayal of public interests. This recall remains the last successful removal of a Seattle mayor, underscoring the rarity of such events.#seattle #casey_mcnerthney #king_county #katie_wilson #ross_lake
Heavy Snow Warning As 12 Inches To Hit—‘Prepare For Power Outages’ The National Weather Service has issued winter weather advisories for parts of Washington and Alaska, warning of heavy snowfall and strong winds that could lead to power outages and hazardous travel conditions. Residents in affected areas are urged to prepare for disruptions as up to 12 inches of snow is expected to fall by Thursday morning. Snowfall is anticipated to range between 8 and 12 inches in the Cascades of Snohomish and northern King counties, as well as the Cascades of Whatcom and Skagit counties. The National Weather Service has described the conditions as “very difficult” for travel, particularly during Wednesday afternoon as a heavier snow band moves in, with Stevens Pass expected to be heavily impacted. Mazama, Stehekin, and Holden Village may see up to 12 inches of snow in areas above 4,000 feet, while lower elevations could receive around 3 inches. The snowfall is expected to continue through Wednesday into Thursday. In addition to snow, parts of the northwest Arctic Coast, including Point Hope, are facing sustained winds of up to 45 mph through Wednesday, with conditions likely to persist until mid-Thursday morning. These winds could create blowing snow, reducing visibility to less than half a mile at times. The National Weather Service has provided safety guidance for drivers and residents. It advises motorists to slow down and exercise caution during poor weather, citing over 5,000 annual fatalities linked to weather-related road incidents. Before traveling, drivers are urged to clear snow and ice from their vehicles, inform someone of their route and expected arrival time, and ensure their phone is fully charged. Emergency kits should include blankets, a shovel, flashlight, non-perishable food, and water.#national_weather_service #snohomish_county #king_county #whatcom_county #skagit_county
