Dec 4, 2024 - News

Seattle City Councilmember Tammy Morales resigns

Christine Clarridge

A dark-haired woman with glasses speaks into a microphone at a political event. — Seattle City Councilmember Tammy Morales, seen here speaking at a 2019 candidate forum, announced her resignation yesterday. Photo: Genna Martin/San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images

Seattle City Councilmember Tammy Morales announced her resignation Wednesday, citing clashes with colleagues and concern about the council's direction.

Why it matters: Once part of the council's progressive majority that passed tenant protections and a race and social justice ordinance, Morales has found herself politically isolated since the 2023 elections shifted the balance of power toward centrist, law-and-order councilmembers, the Seattle Times reports.

Driving the news: Morales, who was reelected to represent southeast Seattle District 2 last year, announced her decision just one day after progressive Alexis Mercedes Rinck was sworn in.

Her resignation is effective Jan. 6.

What they're saying: In her resignation letter, Morales criticized the recent budget the council passed that she said "reduces funding for social services for our most vulnerable," and said she was "worried about the future of this institution, and my place in it."

"Key among those duties is to protect the health, safety, environment, and general welfare of the people," she wrote. "I can no longer, in good conscience, say I am doing this by remaining on this Council."
In a statement, Council President Sara Nelson thanked Morales for her service to District 2, highlighted their collaboration on key legislation, and wished Morales well.

What's next: A temporary replacement will be appointed by the council to fill Morales' seat until a special election is held in November.

Editor's note: This story has been updated with a response from City Council President Sara Nelson.

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Seattle City Councilmember Tammy Morales resigns

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