Seattle Mayor Files Appeal to Prevent Her Removal From Office

As protests swarmed the city of Seattle following the death of George Floyd on May 25, the city’s mayor Jenny Durkan has been heavily criticized for her handling of the situation and is now at risk of losing her post. It all began after the Seattle Police Department used tear gas as a crowd dispersal tool against protesters, which was later banned by Seattle Police Chief Carmen Best. 

Durkan to be Removed from Office?

Despite the ban, police officers continued to use tear gas against the demonstrators. This use of force led to criticism against Durkan, who said that she is not responsible for the actions of Seattle PD. The entire debacle reached a climax when Democrats from the 35th district signed a resolution, claiming that Durkan “has shown no ability or desire to rein in the [Seattle Police Department] or protect peaceful protesters,” adding that the City Council will go forward with impeaching her if she refuses to resign.

Durkan could be removed from her post sooner rather than later, as King County Superior Court Judge Mary Roberts allowed the recall petition against Durkan to move forward, denying the mayor’s July request to reconsider. Judge Roberts noted in the ruling that Durkan had endangered the community’s peace and safety, as well as “violated her duties,” after failing to institute new police policies.

Durkan's last hope is to make her case at the state's highest court. To that end, an appeal has been filled on Durkan's behalf asking Washington's Supreme Court to review Judge Roberts’ decision.