Jenny Durkan for Mayor | Facebook
Jenny Durkan
Jenny Durkan was last night revealed to be convincingly ahead in the Mayoral race in the US city of Seattle, Washington.
The Seattle Times says the Democrat polled 61% of returns in yesterday’s vote – well ahead of rival Cary Moon’s 39%. Both women are seeking to replace former Mayor Ed Murray.
Murray, who is also gay, resigned in September, following a string of sexual abuse allegations. He has consistently denied the allegations but said he felt moved to step down as the scandal was overshadowing his office.
Legal career
Durkan, 59, is a prosecutor. She served as United States Attorney for the Western District of Washington from 2009-2014, under President Barack Obama. She and partner Dana Garvey have two teenage sons.
Although around half the ballots remain to be counted, commentators say her convincing lead is almost insurmountable.
‘I know there are a lot more votes to be counted,’ she said in a speech to supporters last night, ‘But I have to tell you: We are feeling really, really good about where we are.’
In another part of town, Moon addressed her own set of supporters, saying, ‘We’re up against really tough odds … But Seattle late voters may surprise everyone.’
Durkan’s expected win was welcomed by the Victory Fund, which supports LGBT candidates across the US. Its President, Aisha C. Moodie-Mills said in a statement.
‘We are thrilled Jenny will become the first lesbian mayor of Seattle—and just the second woman elected to the position.
‘While Seattle voters chose Jenny because of her proven track record of leading innovative reforms and fighting for all communities, it is also an undeniably proud moment for the LGBTQ community, which continues to see this strong leader break down barriers.’
The new Mayor will take office 28 November.
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