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Election season is officially underway in Washington State, with candidate filing week running from May 4 – May 8, 2026. Candidates must file by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 8 in order to appear on the ballot for this year’s Primary and General Elections.

This year’s election cycle includes several important races throughout Pierce County and across Washington State that will directly impact housing policy, property rights, land use, transportation, taxation, and the overall business climate affecting REALTORS® and property owners.

Offices on the Ballot in Pierce County

Pierce County voters will see a variety of local races on the ballot this year, including:

  • Pierce County Council
  • Pierce County Auditor
  • State legislative positions
  • Ballot initiatives and levies

Additional offices and candidates will continue to finalize following the close of filing week.

TPCAR Candidate Evaluation & Endorsement Process

Each election cycle, the Tacoma-Pierce County Association of REALTORS® (TPCAR) evaluates candidates and ballot measures. TPCAR’s Government Affairs Committee and leadership team are beginning the process of:

  • Reviewing candidate filings
  • Conducting candidate outreach and interviews
  • Evaluating voting records and policy positions

For state legislative races within Pierce County, TPCAR also works in coordination with Washington REALTORS® regarding candidate evaluations and potential endorsements at the state level.

Why REALTOR® Advocacy Matters

Many of the most significant issues impacting housing affordability and real estate transactions are decided at the local and state government level. Policies related to zoning, permitting, development regulations, landlord-tenant law, infrastructure investment, transportation planning, and taxation all directly affect the ability to buy, sell, develop, and own property.

Through REALTOR® advocacy efforts and the REALTOR® Political Action Committee (RPAC), TPCAR works to support candidates and policies that promote a healthy housing market, protect private property rights, and encourage attainable homeownership opportunities throughout our region.

RPAC is funded through voluntary REALTOR® contributions and allows REALTORS® to support advocacy efforts and engage in the political process on issues affecting the industry and consumers alike.

Key 2026 Election Dates

  • May 4 – 8: Candidate filing week
  • May 11: Candidate withdrawal deadline
  • August 4: Washington Primary Election
  • November 3: General Election

As candidate filing concludes and races begin to take shape, TPCAR will continue monitoring key contests throughout Pierce County and sharing additional information regarding candidate evaluations, endorsements, and advocacy priorities in the months ahead.

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