Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson faces recall effort as approval ratings drop

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson is facing a decline in public approval and a growing recall effort amid concerns over public safety. A poll released by the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce shows Wilson’s favorability dropped from 57% in April to 37% in early August. Pollster Andrew Thibault of the Fulcrum Strategy Group attributed the decline to visceral public reactions regarding safety issues.

Only 34% of surveyed voters expressed confidence in the city’s current public safety plan. This lack of confidence follows several high-profile incidents, including a July 26 shooting at the Bite of Seattle food festival that resulted in three deaths and four injuries. The incident also led to the controversial resignation of Police Chief Shon Barnes at Wilson’s request.

A recall petition has been filed, citing several grievances including the resignation of the police chief, sex trafficking and shootings in North Aurora, drug use in the Chinatown International District, and the deactivation of surveillance cameras. Critics of the mayor claim these issues have ‘created chaos’ and demonstrate a lack of fiscal responsibility.