Native representation could increase substantially in Washington this November. Of the eight Native candidates advancing to the General Election on November 3, three are running for reelection and five are new Native candidates running competitive races for their respective seats.
These candidates represent Tribal communities and legislative districts across Washington, with seven running for the State Legislature and one seeking county office. Their campaigns come at a time when Native voters are building intentional political power across the state, and when decisions made in Olympia and local governments continue to have direct consequences for Tribal sovereignty, voting access, natural resources, education, public safety, and Native communities.
Washington voters narrowed the field during the August 4 Primary Election, with results certified on August 18. Statewide turnout reached 36.7%, down from 40.2% in the 2022 midterm Primary Election. At the same time, voters increasingly turned to ballot drop boxes. Drop box use rose 14% compared with 2022 amid concerns about changes affecting mail-in voting and increased efforts to encourage Washington voters to return their ballots early.
Now, attention turns to the November 3 General Election.
For Native voters, representation is about more than seeing Native people on the ballot. Native elected officials bring lived experience and an understanding of Tribal sovereignty, treaty rights, government-to-government relationships, and the issues affecting Native people, all of which are perspectives that have historically been underrepresented at every level of government.
This year, eight Native candidates will appear on General Election ballots across Washington. Some are longtime elected leaders seeking another term. Others are running to bring new Native voices into public office.
Meet the eight Native candidates running in Washington’s 2026 General Election and find out who may be on your ballot.
Chelsea Dimas (D)
Nahua
Running for State Representative 14th District, Position 1
Learn about Chelsea’s priorities
Kim Harless (D)
Opata
Running for State Representative 49th District, Position 1
Learn about Kim’s priorities
Renee Hernandez Greenfield (D)
Pueblo
Running for State Representative 26th District, Position 2
Learn about Renee’s priorities
Claudia Kauffman (D)
Nez Perce
Running for State Senator 47th District
Learn about Claudia’s priorities
Debra Lekanoff (D)
Tlingit
Running for State Representative 40th District, Position 1
Learn about Debra’s priorities
Maria Littlesun (D)
Skokomish
Running for State Representative 35th District, Position 2
Learn about Maria’s priorities
Chris Stearns (D)
Navajo
Running for State Representative 47th District, Position 2
Learn about Chris’ priorities
Jennifer White (nonpartisan)
Makah
Running for Clallam County Treasurer
Learn about Jennifer
Native voters have the power to shape elections across Washington, and Native Vote Washington is working year-round to make sure our communities have the information and resources to use that power.
Stay connected with Native Vote Washington for updates on Native candidates, voting rights, elections, and opportunities to get involved. Learn more about our work and sign up for the NVW monthly newsletter at wcaction.us/NVWjoin.
