Adam Smith, the incumbent Democratic Party candidate, and Republican Party challenger Doug Basler are set to compete for the United States Representative position in Congressional District 9 during the general election on November 3. Voters residing in Federal Way and other parts of the district will receive their ballots starting October 14. All ballots must be postmarked by election day or deposited in official drop boxes by 8 p.m. on November 3. The 9th Congressional District encompasses a wide area, including parts of Federal Way, Mercer Island, Kent, Renton, Des Moines, and segments of Seattle and Bellevue, according to King County Elections.
Both candidates have articulated their reasons for seeking office and highlighted key issues they are prioritizing.
Representative Smith emphasized his connection to the 9th District, describing it as a "tremendously diverse and hard-working community" that he has called home his entire life. He stated his focus is on strengthening the middle class and investing in the future, particularly as the nation faces significant challenges. Smith expressed concern that working-class families, like the union family he grew up in, do not have the same opportunities as previous generations, a situation he believes requires change. His agenda includes reducing housing costs to make homeownership attainable again, fostering economic growth from the middle out, and expanding economic opportunities. He also aims to protect unions, enhance job training and workforce development programs, and create and safeguard good-paying jobs.
Regarding healthcare, Smith asserted that individuals from all backgrounds should have access to quality, affordable care. He advocated for restructuring the healthcare system, proposing a pathway toward a single-payer plan, such as Medicare for All. Smith also mentioned his previous role as chairman and top Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, where he prioritized ensuring support for all service members and their families. He committed to continuing efforts to rebuild representative democracy, restore accountability, and lower everyday living costs by ensuring government delivers effective results for working people.
Challenger Doug Basler stated his motivation for running is to provide families in Washington’s 9th District with greater opportunities to build fulfilling lives, a vision he terms the "Opportunity Revolution." Basler believes government should protect freedom, reward work, eliminate unnecessary barriers, maintain community safety, and enable people to build a good life. His philosophy can be summarized as: Dream. Work. Save. Own. Prosper.
Basler affirmed his willingness to address difficult issues directly. He indicated he would collaborate with President Trump when he agrees with his policies and would voice disagreement when he believes Trump is wrong, stressing his primary responsibility to represent the people of the 9th District. Basler also clarified his stance on abortion, stating he is pro-life and hopes individuals choose life, but does not support a federal abortion ban. He strongly supports IVF and contraception and believes more should be done to aid children and families, especially those at risk.
Basler also urged voters to approve three statewide initiatives: IL26-001 for parents’ rights, IL26-638 to protect girls’ sports and safe spaces, and IP26-645 to repeal Washington’s new income tax. On government programs, Basler argued that before implementing new programs to make services affordable, the focus should first be on identifying and addressing the policies that contributed to the high costs. He advocated for "attacking the cost" rather than merely subsidizing the price. This approach, he explained, involves making housing more accessible by reducing construction barriers, encouraging business growth to create high-paying jobs, and rewarding work, saving, and investment. Basler also highlighted the importance of supporting reliable and affordable energy and ensuring community safety.
