The 36th District Democrats made their endorsements for the upcoming Primary Election to be held on August 21.

Over 175 Democrats and community activists packed a hot room at the Calvary Lutheran Church in north Ballard. Sixteen candidates also showed up and many worked the process so that they could speak to the group.

"We take endorsements as one of our most important responsibilities to the District," said 36th District Democrats Chair, Peter House. "Our executive board interviewed 26 candidates, and spent a collective 180 hours listening to the elective hopefuls. Once the endorsement meeting rolls around, we are informed and well-quipped to advise the voters in the District."

Several popular incumbents were endorsed by acclamation. Scott Noble (Assessor), Larry Phillips (King County Council), Alec Fisken (Port Commission), and City Council members Tom Rasmussen and Sally Clark got rousing support to go with their endorsements.

The Democrats in the room had a more difficult time with the other races which featured debate and meticulous counting of the votes. In the Prosecutor race, Bill Sherman narrowly edged Keith Scully. Gael Tarleton got the nod in the Position #2 Port Commission race, but Jack Block Jr. had plenty of supporters in the crowd. In City Council Position #1, no endorsement was made even though incumbent Jean Godden is running for re-election. Venus Velazquez prevailed for City Council Position #3, but both Bruce Harrelson and Al Runte had well-organized supporters in the room.

Peter Maier was endorsed over incumbent Sally Soriano for School Board Position #1. Another School Board incumbent, Darlene Flynn, fared better and was endorsed over strong challengers Sherry Carr and Lisa Stuebing.

Both King County levies were endorsed.

"We will distribute, door-to-door, approximately 25,000 sample ballots before the August 21 Primary," said District Vice Chair, Janis Traven. "And, the sample ballots will highlight the candidates we endorsed. The candidates work hard to get this free advertising, especially since it is delivered in-person."

On several occasions at the meeting, House stopped to express his appreciation for the candidates.

"Running for political office is one of the highest expressions of citizenship," House told the crowd. "These folks take great personal risk when they run, and, in the end, most of them will lose and they know it. On the other hand, most also find great satisfaction in campaigning, and for the winners, the prize of elective office is substantial. We owe them all a tip of the hat. No candidates, no democracy."

Here are the candidates and ballot issues endorsed by the 36th District Democrats:

King County Assessor - Scott Noble

King County Prosecuting Attorney - Bill Sherman

King County Council Position #4 - Larry Phillips

Port Commission Position #2 - Gael Tarleton

Port Commission Position #5 - Alec Fisken

Seattle City Council Position #3 - Venus Velasquez

Seattle City Council Position #5 - Tom Rasmussen

Seattle City Council Position #9 - Sally Clark

Seattle School District - Director District #1 - Peter Maier

Seattle School District - Director District #2 - Darlene Flynn

King County Prop. #1 - Regional And Rural Parks Levy - Vote Yes

King County Prop. #2 - Open Space, Regional Trails And Woodland Park Zoo - Vote Yes