EVERETT — As the race for Everett City Council District 4 intensifies, candidate Niko Battle is distinguishing himself as the leading grassroots contender. Battle’s campaign has raised a total of $8,398.62, combining grassroots donations, institutional support, and minimal self-funding.
This includes the vast majority of contributions from individual donors with just $345.70 in self-funding. Battle has relied overwhelmingly on community support — only 4.12% of the total raised has come from personal funds. By contrast:
- Luis Burbano has self-funded 81.8% of his total ($448.72 of $548.72)
- Alan Rubio has self-funded 71.3% ($8,459.47 of $11,854.26)
“When we remove self-funding, our campaign has raised the most — all without a head start,” said Battle. “This race should be about public service, not private wealth. I’m proud to have earned the trust of working families in Everett and across the region.”
Battle entered the race later than both opponents, but quickly gained momentum, raising nearly $1,000 at a kickoff event hosted last week by State Representative Brandy Donaghy and former Snohomish County Democrats Chair Monica Chilton. All contributions from the event came from within the region.
Additional endorsements continue to build, including:
- Port of Everett Commissioner David Simpson
- Seattle Deputy Mayor & Former State Representative Jessyn Farrell
- State Senator Javier Valdez
- Former Mukilteo School Board Member Mike Simmons
Battle’s campaign is centered on bold, practical solutions: building more affordable housing while preventing displacement, improving public safety through community violence intervention and empowering local law enforcement, and restoring transparency and accountability in city government.
“Money tells a story — and the story of this campaign is clear,” Battle said. “I’m not trying to buy this seat. At the end of the day, I believe people-power will beat the power of the pocketbook.”
Source: Niko Battle, Everett CC candidate
Author: Lynnwood Times Contributor
