2017 Primary Voters' Guide

Coming Soon
John Persak

Education: Professional maritime career training

Occupation: Maritime, longshore and logistics; policy advocate/Vice President, ILWU 19

Statement: I am running to ensure that the Port of Seattle remains the people's port, and that all decisions prioritize living wages and the need for a livable planet and communities.  I will use the Port's economic engine to rebuild the middle class by creating good paying jobs for our families and prioritizing environmental stewardship.

 

We must increase transparency in light of recent Port decisions that don't reflect the civic values of King County. I will be accountable and accessible to ensure Port decisions support our working waterfront, fishing community, and our airport communities.

 

I am committed to democratic progressive values. As a labor leader, I have fought for the rights of workers and communities for many years. I serve on the Port's Environment & Sustainability Committee, and have a unique understanding of the Port's governance and operations, and can improve them.

 

Our region is known for our environmental stewardship and the Port needs to better reflect that. I'll work to promote renewable fuels, electrify shore power to reduce ship pollution, and reduce noise and air pollution around the airport. I will bring labor and environmental leaders together to ensure all Commission actions responsibly combat climate change while creating jobs.

 

I have unmatched policy experience directly with Port issues including environmental sustainability, freight mobility, labor relations, and land use. This experience is essential to be an effective Port Commissioner, and I am the only candidate who can hit the ground running on day one.

 

I am the strong voice the Port needs to champion our working families and environment.

 

Endorsements: Martin Luther King Jr. County Labor Council, Senator Maralyn Chase, Representative Noel Frame, Representative Mia Gregerson, ILWU 19, Inland Boatman's Union, 32nd, 34th, 36th, 46th and 48th District Democrats, Teamsters 117, Peter Goldman, Eugene Wasserman, David Gering and many more.

Contact:
(206) 291-5411