Skip to content

Initiatives 1366, 1401 winning in early results; Republicans look to gain seat in House

by caprecord

Here’s a round-up of early election results from Nov. 3rd:

Initiative 1366 is winning, 54 percent to 46 percent. The measure, backed by initiative activist Tim Eyman, would decrease the state’s 6.5 percent sales tax to 5.5 percent unless the Legislature makes it harder to raise taxes. To avoid the estimated $8 billion loss in sales tax, the Legislature must approve a constitutional amendment before April 15 requiring a two-thirds vote to increase taxes. Currently, raising taxes requires a simple majority vote of the Legislature.

Initiative 1401 is winning, 71 percent to 29 percent. The measure aims to fight poaching by outlawing the sale or purchase of items made from ten endangered animals, such as elephant ivory, shark fins and tiger products. The penalty for breaking the law ranges from $1,000 to $10,000 in fines and potentially up to five years in jail.

30th Legislative District: Republican Teri Hickel is ahead with 54 percent of the vote, while Democrat Carol Gregory has 46 percent. If Hickel maintains the lead, Democrats will have only a two-seat majority in the House, 50-48. The Senate is controlled by Republicans. The 30th district includes Federal Way, Auburn and Des Moines.

9th Legislative District: Republican Mary Dye has a 65 percent lead over fellow Republican Richard Lathim, who has 35 percent. Dye was appointed to the seat in May following the resignation of Rep. Susan Fagan, who left during an ethics probe.

Results will be updated at the Secretary of State’s website here.