Janice Zahn and John Whitney will face off in the Nov. 4 general election for the Legislative District 41 state representative Position No. 1 seat. They advanced to the general election after taking the top two spots in the Aug. 5 primary.
King County Elections will mail out ballots to registered voters on Oct. 15.
The Reporter sent out Q and A’s to each candidate and here are their responses:
Janice Zahn (Prefers Democratic Party)
What do you feel are three of the most critical issues in the district and how do you hope to address them?
Our district is defined by vibrant communities that value education, sustainability, and connection — yet we also face shared challenges.
First, housing affordability remains one of our most pressing issues. Families, workers, and seniors are being priced out of our communities and our adult children can’t afford to live where they grew up. I’m focused on advancing solutions that increase housing options — particularly near transit and job centers — that reflect our unique neighborhoods and the environment.
Second, transportation choices and roadway safety continue to impact quality of life. As a civil engineer, I’m working to secure investments in safer streets, addressing aging infrastructure, and expanding public transit to keep people and goods moving efficiently.
Third, protecting our environment and addressing climate change must remain a top priority. I’m committed to strengthening clean energy policies, investing in resilient infrastructure, and safeguarding Puget Sound and our green spaces for future generations.
What’s your life philosophy and how can you apply that to district matters?
My approach to service is grounded in integrity, innovation, and inclusion. Integrity means being transparent, evidence-based and accountable to the people I serve and making government work better for everyone. Innovation means bringing creative, data-driven solutions to complex challenges rather than relying on the status quo. And inclusion means engaging with the many communities I serve, listening to understand and valuing their perspectives. My background as an engineer, bridge builder, and community volunteer taught me to build strong foundations, plan for the long term, and never lose sight of people’s everyday experiences. In Olympia, that means asking tough questions, working collaboratively, and crafting policies that deliver real, measurable benefits for families and communities.
What will you do in your role as a representative to support and strengthen the district?
My top priority is to be a responsive, accessible, and effective representative who delivers meaningful results. That means working closely with local governments, schools, and community organizations to ensure state policies and funding reflect our district’s needs — from protecting our schools and small local businesses to addressing mental health, childcare and public safety. I’ll continue to champion collaborative, bipartisan solutions that strengthen our infrastructure, preserve our environment, and create opportunities for everyone to thrive.
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John Whitney (Prefers Republican Party)
What do you feel are three of the most critical issues in the district and how do you hope to address them?
Runaway taxes. With the highest gas tax in the country, and a multitude of other taxes, we are driving businesses and people out of Washington. We are hurting the people and businesses we serve. I will address this issue by keeping taxes in line with revenues, not spending more money than we have. Allocating money to the projects that benefit the most people and cutting projects that benefit the least amount of people. Using my business mindset to cut waste, duplication, and do more with less.
Crime. I will keep our cities safe, by supporting law enforcement. I will stop incentivizing crime, and champion punishment or public service for those who break the law.
Quality education for our kids. I will prioritize academic achievement. Allow parents to raise their children as they see fit by championing parental rights.
What’s your life philosophy and how can you apply that to district matters?
My life’s philosophy is to glorify God in all I do. This will serve my district by doing what is best for the majority of people, without influence from special interest groups, or personal gain.
What will you do in your role as a representative to support and strengthen the district?
I will cut waste, do more with less so our tax dollars go farther. I will champion a business environment where business thrive by reducing taxes and regulations. I will prioritize getting traffic flowing. I will be an advocate for our next generation, so they are educated in a classical manor to be able to achieve their dreams. And all our citizens able to thrive in safe neighborhoods.
