Written by David Mitchell.

In a move that blends pragmatism with political calculation, the Seattle City Council has chosen Mark Solomon, a crime prevention coordinator for the Seattle Police Department, to fill the vacant District 2 seat. This vacancy arose after Tammy Morales, a former councilmember known for her progressive stance, left earlier this year.

Solomon, a familiar name in the District 2 political scene, has long sought a seat on the council. His selection comes after unsuccessful campaigns in 2019 and 2024. Despite these setbacks, his tenacity and focus on public safety appear to have resonated with the council. Following his appointment on Monday, Solomon underscored his intention to focus entirely on his council duties rather than seeking reelection, promising a results-driven approach during his abbreviated term.

“I want to get in, do the work, and not be distracted by trying to campaign at the same time,” Solomon remarked, emphasizing a no-nonsense attitude.

Tackling Public Safety and Growth

Mark Solomon’s experience as a civilian crime prevention coordinator uniquely positions him to address some of Seattle’s pressing concerns. His priorities include streamlining the permitting process, regulating late-night lounges linked to violent incidents, and addressing issues of public safety and human suffering in the Little Saigon neighborhood.

In addition to these immediate priorities, Solomon aims to contribute to the ongoing comprehensive plan update, which serves as a blueprint for Seattle’s development. His focus on equitable growth aligns with Mayor Bruce Harrell’s “One Seattle” vision, emphasizing shared responsibility for density across all neighborhoods. While some areas resist change, Solomon champions a balance between growth and community integrity.

“There’s some neighborhoods who don’t want to change. That’s understandable,” Solomon explained. “But we’re one Seattle, and we need to come together so the burden isn’t always on places like North Rainier in District 2.”

A Law-and-Order Shift

Solomon’s appointment marks a departure from the more progressive leanings of his predecessor, Tammy Morales. This isn’t the first time the council has opted for such a pivot. In 2024, the council appointed Tanya Woo, another moderate candidate, to Morales’ former seat. Woo ultimately lost her reelection bid to Alexis Mercedes Rinck, a candidate closely aligned with Morales’ progressive politics.

This pattern suggests a deliberate recalibration by the council toward candidates with a stronger emphasis on public safety and pragmatism. Solomon’s advocacy for hiring more police officers and skepticism toward upzoning measures that favor developers reflect a cautious, incremental approach to addressing Seattle’s complex challenges.

Bridging Community Divides

Despite his law-and-order credentials, Solomon has made efforts to reach across ideological divides. He highlighted his collaborative relationship with Morales following their 2019 electoral contest, promising to serve all constituents, regardless of political alignment.

“If you don’t agree with me, fine,” he said. “I’m still going to advocate for you. I’m still going to work for you. I’m still going to try to make things better by delivering services for the community.”

As the incoming chair of the land use committee, Solomon’s influence will likely extend to critical debates about density, development, and public safety. His focus on holistic solutions, such as supporting local businesses in addition to advocating for more police presence, signals a nuanced approach to governance.

Our Take

While Mark Solomon’s appointment brings a fresh perspective to the Seattle City Council, it also underscores a growing divide in the city’s political landscape. The council’s recent trend of appointing moderates like Solomon and Woo reveals a shift away from the progressive policies championed by Morales and her allies. This pivot reflects increasing concern over public safety and urban growth, but it risks alienating constituents who prioritize affordable housing and social equity.

From a conservative standpoint, Solomon’s emphasis on public safety and balanced development is a step in the right direction. His pragmatic approach acknowledges the need for law and order while striving for equitable growth across Seattle’s neighborhoods. However, the council’s reluctance to fully embrace progressive reforms may hinder its ability to address systemic issues effectively. The challenge moving forward will be finding common ground between these competing visions for Seattle’s future.