Last push for votes from Seattle mayoral candidates

SEATTLE — A last-minute push for votes heading into Election Day on Tuesday had both Seattle mayoral candidates out speaking with the public on Sunday.

Public safety and homelessness are some of the most important issues heading into the election and both are connected to the city’s parks, which is why both candidates probably spent some time at public parks.

KIRO 7′s Kevin Ko got to hear from both candidates.

“Now until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, we do not concede a single vote,” Lorena Gonzalez said while speaking to a crowd.

“I was just born a few miles from here by the way...” said Bruce Harrell to a crowd.

Only a few miles separate Columbia Park and Dr. Jose Rizal Park, which is where the candidates made one of their final pitches to distinguish themselves from the other.

Gonzalez spoke at a voting rally held at Columbia and was accompanied by her family members and supporters, who included Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal.

“This is what community looks like. And we can keep building this if we take back City Hall and have a mayor who represents the working people and families of this city,” said Gonzalez.

“The reason I’m here is because of my friend Lorena Gonzalez. And look, trust is something that is earned. It’s earned over time. It’s earned through action,” Jayapal said.

Rep. Jayapal, the first Asian American representative in state history, said Gonzalez has a history of speaking up for the least represented voices across the city.

“We’re talking about our working families. We’re talking about working people in the city,” Gonzalez said to supporters, “And we’re talking about how we fundamentally build a more equitable, just city.”

“They want the city back. They want the homelessness problem solved. They do not want status quo and my opponent presents a status quo approach,” said Harrell.

Harrell spent the afternoon at Dr. Jose Rizal Park, where a community Halloween celebration was held.

“We’re going to make sure this particular gem is the gem it’s supposed to be,” Harrell said.

He briefly spoke to a crowd about several issues, including public safety and called this election the most important one in recent history. He called it an opportunity to redefine Seattle.

“This is a great city, a super city. Let’s act like it is. Let’s not blame one another. Let’s rise above everything, let’s hold hands and let’s invest our resources and talents into reclaiming our city,” he said.

Both candidates said they believe in outcomes. Whatever those may be, both will have to wait for Tuesday night’s outcome when voting ends at 8 p.m.

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