The Urban Election Onstage in Seattle

Wolfe draws parallels between Seattle and New York and reflects on the re-election challenge to incumbent Mayor Mike McGinn---who some call the most progressive mayor in America.  Like presumptive New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, Wolfe notes how McGinn may reflect, if not lead, the trend lines of changing cities everywhere.

Seattle's liberal moniker may actually predicate the iconic New York City mayor's race, a post-Bloomberg defining moment more closely watched than our own.  At issue there is a model of governance that will predict the voting outcomes for evolving American demographics, as well as a decided tilt toward equity and the new urban populism.

Wolfe cites the increasing spotlight placed on the Seattle race by national press coverage late in the campaign, and how challenger Ed Murray has largely addressed style rather than substantive approaches already in place.

He concludes:  "As noted, it's late in the game and we are onstage, partly because of the provocative conviction of the mayor we have."