Through the Static

By Hannah Saunders

Jaelynn Scott, the executive director of the nationwide Black Trans advocacy organization, Lavender Rights Project, has received a flurry of endorsements within days of launching her campaign as Washington state representative for the 37th legislative district’s position 2 seat. Democrat Chipalo Street has held that position since stepping into office in 2023, and according to Ballotpedia, will not be on the November ballot.

Scott previously told TtS that the issues she’s campaigning on, like housing affordability and access, and universal healthcare, are some of the most pressing ones the Seattle community is experiencing. 

“Surveillance to protect us from coming threats, housing and the Trans refugee crisis, and LGBTQIA People of Color needing protection from police harassment and violence,” Scott said. 

Numerous local elected officials issued endorsements, including Seattle’s progressive Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck who said that Scott will fight for those “who are too often pushed to the margins,” an endorsement that Scott said she is incredibly proud of.

King County Executive Girmay Zahilay endorsed her several days prior, calling the Black Trans woman who’s dedicated her career towards advocacy a “pragmatic, compassionate leader the 37th district needs in Olympia right now.” Other endorsements in the early days of this campaign include Seattle City Council President Joy Hollingsworth, Seattle City Councilmember Dionne Foster, Seattle City Attorney Erika Evans, Senator Rebecca Saldaña, and Port of Seattle Commissioner Toshiko Hasegawa. 

With nine months to go until the election, Scott wants community members to reach out about changes they would like to see. 

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