VOTE
Rafe Sher
Fixing the system. Ignoring the noise. Zero corporate cash.
Rafe Sher
Data Engineer & Neighbor with a Plan
A NEIGHBOR,
NOT A POLITICIAN.
I am not a career politician. I am a Data & Analytics Engineer. My professional life is dedicated to a single goal: identifying what is broken, finding the root cause, and building a solution that works. I’m running because I believe our state government should function with that same level of precision.
I’ve lived in Port Orchard for 7 years, serving as an HOA President and Treasurer - roles that taught me leadership is about the steady, objective stewardship of the assets we all share. My time volunteering with the Red Cross, Department of Emergency Management, CERT, and Habitat for Humanity has reinforced my belief that we are at our best when we engineer systems that proactively support people before a crisis hits.
I value honesty, fairness, and a society where every neighbor has a solid foundation to build upon. I am focused on fiscal fair play - ensuring our tax code is balanced so we can invest in our community's future. This means cutting medical red tape to ensure healthcare is a reliable constant in our lives, and building a foundation for innovation that provides the economic stability every citizen needs to pursue their true passions and contribute to our district.
WHAT IS FUNCTIONAL POPULISM?
It’s a simple idea: Government should focus on the 80% of issues we all agree on, rather than the 20% that divide us.
While others fight for cable news soundbites, I am fighting for reliable ferries, infrastructure built for the future, and streets that are safe for all of Kitsap.
The 80% Agenda
ACCOUNTABLE GROWTH
Fairness in Funding- 01
Developer Impact Fees
Reform state law to create a tiered system. Large private-equity developments must fund the growth they create.
- 02
1-Mile Maintenance Surcharge
Developers must pay for road repairs and utility upgrades within a one-mile radius of major projects.
- 03
Narrows Toll Relief
Advocate for state-funded toll subsidies for low-income commuters, students, and essential workers.
- 04
External Audits
Implement independent, external reviews for state programs. Taxpayers deserve to know which programs are working and which need reform.
RESILIENT SYSTEMS
Building for Reality- 01
"Dig Once" Mandate
Road repairs must include installation of fiber-optic and electrical conduits to stop wasteful repeat projects.
- 02
Reliable Utilities
Hold utility monopolies accountable for infrastructure failures. Our power, internet, and roads must be hardened against storms and neglect.
- 03
Water Security
Strict protections for Kitsap aquifers to ensure safe, long-term water access for residents, not just industry.
- 04
Rural Broadband
Classify high-speed internet as a utility to ensure the Key Peninsula and rural areas aren't left behind.
SAFETY & TRANSIT
Moving & Protecting- 01
Fix the Ferries
Secure backup vessels and expanded schedules. Reliability is not a luxury; it's a highway.
- 02
Co-Responder Model
Fund mental health pros to pair with police. The right expert for the right crisis keeps everyone safer.
- 03
CERT & Prep
Expand state funding for Community Emergency Response Team training to build neighborhood resilience.
- 04
Solve the Gorst Bottleneck
Champion a permanent solution for the Gorst chokepoint, including potential bypass routes, to ensure emergency access.
Loyalty to the People
I answer to the people of Kitsap and District 26, not a donor list. Here is my contract with you.
0 Corporate Donors
I do not take checks from lobbyists or PACs. My vote cannot be bought, leveraged, or influenced.
The Working-Class Tax Shield
I will vote against any legislation that raises sales or property taxes on working-class or fixed-income individuals. We must fund our state by closing loopholes at the top, not by squeezing neighbors who are just trying to get by.
The 72-Hour Rule
I pledge not to vote on any bill I haven't had at least 72 hours to read. No more "pass it to find out what's in it."
The "Silent Campaign" Pledge
Modern life is loud. My campaign will never knock on your door, cold-call your phone, or spam your text inbox.
Join the "Silent" Campaign
We don't knock on doors. We rely on you.
Step 1: Copy & Edit
Draft Your Letter
Copy this draft, then paste and edit it in the submission forms to the right.
Step 2: Send it
Get a Yard Sign
Show your neighbors you stand for common sense.
Host an Event
Gather neighbors for coffee or a BBQ. I'll show up to listen, and discuss the important issues.
Join the Campaign
Help us build the strategy. No door-knocking.
Contact Me
Have a question? Want to chat about something? Let me know.