Former judge and social equity consultant will vie to represent North Seattle

After some close results in the city council district in north Seattle, it’s now clear who will be advancing to the general election. Former King County Superior Court Judge Cathy Moore and social equity consultant ChrisTiana ObeySumner will be on the ballot for District 5 in November.

Third place candidate Nilu Jenks conceded Thursday after ObeySumner pulled ahead to a firm second place. ObeySumner called the race a roller-coaster so far.

“I had a health flare and I couldn’t walk, my husband would push me in my wheelchair to try to go door-knocking and go to the farmer’s markets or do everything we could, and it paid off and I’m so thrilled,” they said.

ObeySumner has co-chaired city commissions for renters and people with disabilities. They said pedestrian safety, affordable housing, and climate justice are three of their top priorities.

The North Seattle seat is open because current Seattle City Council President Debora Juarez is not seeking re-election.

Jenks congratulated both candidates and said in a statement, “I am grateful to the voters of District 5 who believed that we can have a city that prioritizes public safety, affordability, and climate leadership.”

In a statement, Moore thanked Jenks for “her clarion call to action on the climate crisis facing us.” Moore added, "I'm thrilled with the primary results, a validation of my deep experience in Seattle as a judge, public defender, and mom. I think our message of common sense approaches to public safety, homelessness, and addressing the housing affordability crisis resonated with voters looking for thoughtful leadership-- not slogans.”

The latest results Thursday showed Moore with 31% of the vote so far and ObeySumner with 24%. Jenks had just under 19 percent.