- Kathryn Rathke
Mike McGinn
Mayor of Seattle
“I am trying to speed up the construction of light rail, but the motherfucking city council is run by a bunch of obstructionist assholes.”
Greatest strength: His frankness often alienates politicos accustomed to getting their asses kissed.
Greatest weakness: His frankness often alienates politicos accustomed to getting their asses kissed.
Medium weakness: Hot wings. Also, under his watch, the Feds sued the city for police routinely using excessive force. McGinn may talk a good game—about keeping police in check, building light rail faster, and bringing back the Sonics—but he often fails to deliver.
Spirit animal: Brown bear in bike shorts.
Base supporters: Environmentalists, youths, cops, cyclists, light-rail supporters.
Little-known fact: A car blows a tire every time you rub his belly.
Vision for Seattle’s future: Light rail in every home!
Biggest enemies: The Seattle City Council, the Seattle Times.
Key endorsements: 37th District Democrats, Cascade Bicycle Club, Northwest Energy Efficiency Council, Sierra Club, IBEW Local 46, Laborers Local 1239.
Amount raised: $236,069.
Latest polling: 22 percent.