Fuse Endorses Progressive Challenger Melanie Morgan for State House
Progressive Advocates Call For New Leadership in Light of Allegations Against Rep. Sawyer
Seattle – Fuse Washington, the state’s largest progressive advocacy organization, today endorsed progressive challenger Melanie Morgan for the state House in the 29th District. Morgan is a U.S. Army Veteran and current Franklin-Pierce School board member who will work to close the achievement gap in our schools.
“Melanie Morgan will bring her long track record of civic leadership to Olympia to work for our communities,” said Desiree Wilkins Finch, Fuse’s Pierce County Organizer. “I know Morgan will continue to work tirelessly to improve transportation, fix our upside-down tax code, and revitalize our local schools.”
Fuse is making an early endorsement in this race in light of the disturbing allegations of sexual harassment by Rep. David Sawyer. A joint investigation by The News Tribune, The Olympian and public radio’s Northwest News Network identified eight women who accused Sawyer of crossing "personal and professional boundaries" that “ranged from inappropriate to harassing." In response, 17 Pierce County elected officials signed a letter urging Sawyer not to seek re-election.
“We expect our elected leaders to uphold the highest ethical standards and treat women with dignity and respect. Unfortunately, David Sawyer has broken the trust of the people he swore to represent.” said Jamielyn Wheeler, Fuse’s Campaign Director. “Sawyer’s treatment of women is unacceptable and has no place in our state Legislature or any workplace. It’s time for new leadership in the 29th District.”
The allegations come as the state Legislature grapples with the backlash against sexual harassment by men in position of power – including legislators and staff – as part of the #MeToo movement. Governor Jay Inslee recently signed a package of four bills intended to increase workplace protections and prevent retaliation.
Fuse rarely endorses in intra-party primary elections unless there is a clear distinction in progressive values. Fuse plans to back up this endorsement with financial support, communication with the 6,300 people on our email list in Pierce County, and a feature in our Progressive Voters Guide, which is used by hundreds of thousands of voters across the state.
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Fuse is the state’s largest progressive organization – people creating change online, on the ground, and on issues that matter. Together for Progress
