Damon Townsend

This page was current at the end of the individual's last campaign covered by Ballotpedia. Please contact us with any updates.

Damon Townsend

No Labels Party

Elections and appointments

Last election

August 6, 2024

Education

Bachelor's

City University of Seattle, 2012

Graduate

Western Governors University, 2016

Personal

Birthplace

Puyallup, Wash.

Religion

Christian

Profession

Consulting

Contact

Campaign website

Personal Facebook

Personal Instagram

Personal LinkedIn

Damon Townsend (No Labels Party) ran for election for Washington Secretary of State. He lost in the primary on August 6, 2024.

Townsend completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Damon Townsend was born in Puyallup, Washington. He earned a bachelor's degree from the City University of Seattle in 2012 and a graduate degree from Western Governors University in 2016. His career experience includes working in consulting. As of 2024, Townsend was affiliated with the International Order of Odd Fellows and the Fraternal Order of Eagles.

Elections

2024

See also: Washington Secretary of State election, 2024

General election

General election for Washington Secretary of State

Incumbent Steve Hobbs defeated Dale Whitaker in the general election for Washington Secretary of State on November 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Steve Hobbs (D)	59.2	2,234,420
		Dale Whitaker (R)	40.7	1,535,977
		Other/Write-in votes	0.1	3,958

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 3,774,355
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
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Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for Washington Secretary of State

Incumbent Steve Hobbs and Dale Whitaker defeated Marquez Tiggs and Damon Townsend in the primary for Washington Secretary of State on August 6, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Steve Hobbs (D)	48.4	930,533
✔		Dale Whitaker (R)	36.9	709,046
		Marquez Tiggs (D)	9.7	185,628
		Damon Townsend (No Labels Party)	5.0	96,586
		Other/Write-in votes	0.1	1,534

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 1,923,327
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

• Phil Fortunato (R)

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Townsend in this election.

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Damon Townsend completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Townsend's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’m Damon Townsend, and I’m running for Secretary of State in Washington. My career in election administration includes roles as an Election Supervisor in Pierce County, Training Manager for the Secretary of State, and interim Election Manager for Clallam and Cowlitz counties. I've also consulted on election procedures and improved operations across various counties.

With an MBA, a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Business, and studies in History and Political Science, I’m well-equipped to bring positive change. I am also a Washington State Certified Election Administrator. I’m passionate about ensuring our elections are fair, secure, and transparent. Beyond my professional life, I volunteer at the Tacoma Rescue Mission, provide community safety training, and coach volleyball and baseball at Bethel Rec.

I’m running as an independent because I believe our leaders need to listen more to the majority and less to extremists. I’m committed to representing all Washingtonians with integrity and dedication.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

• Nonpartisan Representation: Running under No Labels, I emphasize the need for political leaders to listen to the majority and avoid extreme partisan influences, ensuring fair representation for all Washingtonians.
• Election Integrity and Modernization: My extensive experience in election administration has equipped me to modernize tabulation systems, enhance transparency, and ensure secure, accurate, and efficient elections.
• Community Commitment and Expertise: With a solid educational background and deep community involvement, I advocate for election laws that are fair, efficient, and effective, reflecting the needs and values of the community.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Efficient Government: Advocating for providing the greatest level of service at the lowest public burden, ensuring taxpayer money is used effectively.

Election Law Reform: Updating antiquated election laws to close loopholes, gaps, and redundancies, making the election process more robust and reliable.

Transparency in Elections: Striving to make elections more transparent to improve public trust in the electoral process, ensuring that all citizens have confidence in the integrity and fairness of elections.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the state government and legal system?

The Office of the Secretary of State in Washington is unique and vital due to its multifaceted responsibilities. It administers elections, ensuring their integrity and transparency. It manages state archives and records, preserving important historical documents. Additionally, it oversees the registration and licensing of corporations and charities, promoting a robust and transparent business environment. This office plays a crucial role in maintaining the democratic process, preserving public records, and fostering economic growth through diligent oversight and regulatory practices.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look up to Theodore Roosevelt because he was the most successful third-party presidential candidate and a true man of the people. He had the ability to connect with everyone, from cowboys in the Dakotas to Yale grad students. Roosevelt was a lifelong learner, applying his knowledge practically in both his public and private life. I admire anyone who steps into the arena, embodying the spirit of Roosevelt's famous "Man in the Arena" speech, which emphasizes courage, effort, and resilience in the face of challenges.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

The Bible, Theodore Roosevelt, An Autobiography, The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress, Stranger in a Strange Land, The Wealth of Nations, The Five Thousand Year Leap,

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity: Ensuring transparency and honesty in all actions to build public trust.

Efficiency: Providing the greatest level of service at the lowest public burden, optimizing resource use.
Nonpartisanship: Representing all constituents fairly and avoiding extreme partisan influences.
Expertise in Public Policy: Having a deep understanding of election laws and processes to effectively update and improve them.
Community Commitment: Actively engaging and supporting the community through volunteerism and public service.

These principles ensure effective governance, fair representation, and public trust.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I believe my qualities would make me a successful officeholder due to my dedication to being a lifelong learner and my commitment to continuous process improvement. My strong educational background in accounting and recordkeeping equips me with the skills needed for meticulous financial management and transparency. As a great coach and leader of diverse teams, I can effectively bring together people with varying perspectives and skills to achieve common goals. Additionally, my commitment to being an avid listener to the public ensures that I stay attuned to the needs and concerns of the community, making informed decisions that reflect the interests of all constituents.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Ensuring Election Integrity: Overseeing secure, transparent, and efficient election processes to build public trust.

Modernizing Election Systems: Updating antiquated laws and closing loopholes to improve accuracy and accountability.
Providing Nonpartisan Leadership: Representing all citizens fairly, avoiding partisan biases.

Enhancing Government Efficiency: Delivering the highest level of service with the lowest public burden, ensuring effective use of taxpayer resources.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to leave a legacy of integrity, transparency, and innovation in public service. I aim to be remembered as a dedicated public servant who modernized and improved our election systems, making them more secure, efficient, and accessible. My commitment to nonpartisanship, community engagement, and continuous learning would set a standard for future leaders. Ultimately, I hope to inspire others to step into the arena, take on challenges with courage, and prioritize the public good above all else.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

I remember many historical events, but the earliest one that still sticks in my mind is the Challenger disaster. I was a huge fan of the space program, and my entire class was watching the disaster unfold on live TV. I was in elementary school at the time, and the impact of that tragic event has stayed with me ever since. It was a moment that underscored the risks and the bravery associated with space exploration.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My very first job was working around the neighborhood mowing lawns and helping others, a practice I continue to this day to assist those in need. My first paycheck jobs were in the food industry, where I worked my way through high school and college. These early experiences taught me the value of hard work, community service, and dedication—values that I carry with me in my professional and personal life.

What is your favorite book? Why?

My favorite book is "The Moon is a Harsh Mistress" by Robert A. Heinlein. This novel retells the story of the American Revolution, emphasizing the preciousness of freedom and the lengths to which people will go to achieve it. It also explores the idea that humanity must expand its presence in the universe because Earth is too fragile a basket for humanity to keep all its eggs in. The themes of liberty, rebellion, and the pioneering spirit resonate deeply with me.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

If I could be any fictional character, I would want to be the Postman from the Kevin Costner movie "The Postman." Although the movie was panned, the character's journey is incredibly inspiring. He steps up to make things right again, initially out of a selfish desire for food, but ultimately inspires an entire region to rebuild and hope for something greater. The story of a person who brings hope and unity in a post-apocalyptic world resonates deeply with me.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Baby Shark

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

One significant struggle in my life has been balancing the demands of my professional career with my commitment to community service and personal responsibilities. Managing various roles, such as election supervisor, consultant, and operations manager, while actively volunteering and coaching in the community, requires careful time management and prioritization. Despite these challenges, I have strived to maintain a strong work ethic and dedication to continuous improvement, ensuring that I fulfill my professional duties effectively while still making meaningful contributions to my community.

What responsibilities of this office do you personally consider the most important?

As a candidate for Secretary of State, I believe that being a nonpartisan chief election administrator is the most important role of this office. The integrity and fairness of our elections must be above partisan politics to ensure that every voter has confidence in the process. My commitment to nonpartisanship means focusing solely on improving election security, transparency, and efficiency without political bias. This approach helps build public trust and ensures that our electoral system truly serves all the people of Washington, not just one party.

Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?

It's little known that the Secretary of State is third in line to the Governor’s office in Washington. This underscores the importance of the role beyond its primary responsibilities of overseeing elections, managing state archives, and regulating businesses and charities. In the event that both the Governor and Lieutenant Governor are unable to serve, the Secretary of State steps in to ensure continuity in leadership. This critical responsibility highlights the need for a nonpartisan and highly competent individual in this office.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics?

I do not believe it is essential for holders of this office to have previous experience as a partisan officeholder in government or politics. Instead, what is more important is having professional experience in the details of election administration and operations. This ensures that the individual has the technical knowledge and skills necessary to oversee fair, transparent, and efficient elections, manage state archives and records, and regulate corporations and charities effectively. The focus should be on expertise and competency in the specific functions of the Secretary of State's office.

What kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess?

Election Administration: My experience in overseeing and modernizing election processes in multiple counties ensures accuracy, transparency, and security.

Technical Expertise: I have contributed to developing the VoteWA registration system and have trained nearly every election administrator in the state.
Recognition and Innovation: My work in ballot tracking, accountability, and chain of custody has earned national awards.
Operations and Data Systems: My background as a data systems technician and operations manager in telecommunications equips me with strong technical and operational skills.
Financial Acumen: With an MBA, a Bachelor's degree in Accounting, and experience in audits and recordkeeping, I bring a solid foundation in financial management and accountability.

These skills collectively ensure that I am well-prepared to manage the multifaceted responsibilities of the Secretary of State's office effectively.

Tell us your favorite joke.

A pirate walks into a bar with a peg leg, a hook for a hand, and an eye patch. The bartender asks, "What happened to your leg?" The pirate replies, "A cannonball took it off." The bartender then asks, "What about your hand?" The pirate says, "Lost it in a sword fight, got this hook as a replacement." Finally, the bartender asks, "How about your eye?" The pirate responds, "A seagull dropping fell into it." Confused, the bartender says, "You lost your eye because of a seagull dropping?" The pirate replies, "It was my first day with the hook."

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Not seeking partisan endorsements.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I am a firm advocate for financial transparency and accountability in government operations. It is vital to ensure that taxpayer funds are utilized efficiently, providing the highest level of service at the lowest cost. Transparency builds public trust and allows citizens to see how resources are being allocated and spent. As an example, I support publishing ballot images so that individuals can conduct their own recounts, enhancing the transparency and integrity of our election process. By promoting clear and open financial practices, we can hold government entities accountable and ensure they act in the public's best interest.

Do you support or oppose changes to the current state ballot initiative process? If so, what kind of changes would you consider?

I love that we have direct democracy in our state, and I am a huge fan of the initiative and referendum process. I support modernizing it to make it easier for citizens to exercise this right using modern technology. Additionally, I want to implement a system that provides easy to provide feedback to the legislature during the lawmaking session. This will enhance citizen engagement and ensure that the voices of the people are heard and considered in the legislative process.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Campaign website

Townsend’s campaign website stated the following:

“	Rebuild Election Confidence First, I will clean up contradictory and irrelevant parts of the Washington Administrative Code. We have rules in place for logic and accuracy tests that were written for mechanical lever action voting machines, and not the modern digital scan systems. We need to use testing methods that provide confidence to the observers and users that their systems are performing correctly. I will evaluate current audit procedures for tabulation, as well as the methodologies used to clean up our voter registration roles. We have added many new laws to allow more convenient registration procedures for voters, while leaving in older laws and regulations that were in place when we had more restrictive registration rules. This has created a large number of ‘zombie’ registrants that add cost to elections (mailing ballots to registrants that don’t exist), erode election confidence (where are those ballots going?), and drives down voter turnout by falsely reporting real turnout (low turnout begets low turnout) Emergency Preparedness Second, I will work to improve our emergency preparedness for election administration. We currently have three counties in the State that do not have the legally required number of certified election administrators, and many others that have the bare minimum. Also most counties do not have the resources to have contingency planning for emergencies that might crop up during an election cycle. I served as such a safety valve in my consulting career, acting as an interim manager for two counites that lost theirs right before a big election (2020 Presidential Primary, 2020 General), and assisted two others in training recently hired managers in time for elections. There also is no backup for the physical equipment used to process elections in most counties. I plan to implement an equipment backup program at the SOS where vendors seeking certification of new equipment would be required to provide, at no cost, a backup of that equipment that will be retained by the SOS office as an emergency backup for any county that purchases that system. Improve Voter Privacy Third, I will eliminate or change the current Presidential Primary system used in our state. We have always been an independent minded people here in Washington State, and we do not want to have to swear an oath of loyalty to a private organization in order to vote. Not only that, but we do not want to pay for a polling process for a private organization with taxpayer money. The parties argued in court that they were private organizations, with the right of free association. So we should hold them to their decision, and if they want us to conduct their elections, they should at least pay for them. We do not conduct elections for homeowners associations or co-op power companies. Increase Transparency Fourth, I will work to increase the transparency of our elections. In Colorado all ballot images are published and available for review after elections are certified. If any citizen wants to do their own manual recount, they can do so. Increased transparency like this will help remove many of the concerns about elections accuracy and tabulation errors. A voter could even make a unique watermark or identifier on their own ballot and see that it was processed to increase their peace of mind. I have worked with election systems vendors to implement a similar system, as voters want to know that their ballot made it not only into the election center, but was counted as they intended.	”
—Damon Townsend’s campaign website (2024)

Campaign finance summary

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Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.

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Damon Townsend campaign contribution history

Year	Office	Status	Contributions	Expenditures
2024*	Washington Secretary of State	Lost primary	$17,905	$14,123
Grand total			$17,905	$14,123
Sources: OpenSecrets,  Federal Elections Commission ***This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete

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