KING COUNTY, Wash. King County Executive Dow Constantine announced Tuesday that he will not run for re-election in 2025.

Appointed to the King County Council in 2002, Constantine was elected to the King County executive position in 2009.

“I took office as administrator 15 years ago this month, and it continues to be an honor every day to serve the people of King County,” Constantine wrote in a statement released Tuesday.

The current King County executive is a graduate of West Seattle High School and also a graduate of the University of Washington, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in political science, a master’s degree in urban planning and a Juris Doctor.

Constantine’s career ranges from practicing law and serving as Chairman of the 34th District Democrats to winning the 1996 election to the Washington House of Representatives. Their work covers everything from transportation and public transport solutions to environmental protection and climate action. He also contributed to improving public health and safety efforts across the country.

“I am running for governor because I care deeply about this district where I grew up and the people who live and work here,” Constantine wrote. “My priority, then and remains today, was that every person should be able to thrive, be economically secure, and contribute to the life of our community.”

Constantine’s statement said he is grateful for the progress he and his colleagues have made as they aim to strive for better government and a more just and equitable society. He also noted that he and his colleagues have gained greater access to opportunities while taking action to protect the environment and human health.

The statement also noted that although his job is “consistently challenging and often daunting,” being given the opportunity to help others is rewarding.

“It has been the honor of my life to serve in this role, but it is now time to let a new leader take the reins and build on the work we do, so I will not seek re-election,” Constantine wrote.

King County Councilman Rod Dembowski, District 1, released a statement following Constantine’s announcement:

“Executive Constantine transformed King County government into a powerful force for good; It focused on lifting up those who are often left behind and left out: children, immigrants, refugees, the economically disadvantaged, and all of us who will suffer. Effects of climate change. Ultimately, King County stands as a beacon of hope for all of America and a model of what is possible. “I thank him for his principled leadership of our government and look forward to his continued leadership in the civic life of our region.”

King County Councilmember Girmay Zahilay also commented on the announcement of Constantine’s future departure in a statement that can be read below:

“Executive Constantine has dedicated his career to serving the people of King County, beginning with his election to the Washington State Legislature in 1997, then serving on the King County Council and currently serving as County Executive for the past 15 years,” Zahilay said. in question. “He left his mark on our region in a way that will benefit our communities for generations to come. “I look forward to working closely with him for the remainder of his term and beyond to ensure every resident of King County has what they need to thrive.”

Zahilay also announced that he is strongly considering running for the King County executive position in 2025.

In his announcement, Constantine wrote that his tenure as King County executive will end next year, but his commitment remains as strong as ever.

“King County must continue on the path of progress this year, next year and beyond, moving toward a future worthy of everyone here today and everyone who will follow,” Constantine wrote. “I look forward to continuing to focus on our critical work like transportation and transportation, climate action, behavioral health, affordable housing, arts and culture, and everything we do to create a community where everyone can thrive. Together, we will continue to build on the progress we have made.”