Ryan McIrvin

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

Ryan McIrvin

Nonpartisan

Elections and appointments

Last election

August 5, 2025

Education

High school

Decatur High School

Bachelor's

Western Washington University, 2006

Personal

Birthplace

Redmond, Wash.

Religion

Unaffiliated

Profession

Government relations

Contact

Campaign website

Campaign Facebook

Campaign Instagram

Personal LinkedIn

Ryan McIrvin ran for election to the King County Council to represent District 5 in Washington. He lost in the primary on August 5, 2025.

McIrvin completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Ryan McIrvin was born in Redmond, Washington. He earned a high school diploma from Decatur High School and a bachelor's degree from Western Washington University in 2006. His career experience includes working in government relations for the University of Washington Bothell and the Snohomish County-Camano Association of REALTORS.

As of 2025, McIrvin was affiliated with the following organizations:

• Issaquah Alps Trails Club, Board Member
• Renton parkrun, Volunteer
• Girls on the Run Puget Sound, Coach
• Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Team in Training, Coach, Captain, and Mentor
• Renton Human Services Advisory Committee, Member
• Birthday Dreams, Volunteer

Elections

2025

See also: Municipal elections in King County, Washington (2025)

General election

The candidate list in this election may not be complete.

General election for King County Council District 5

Steffanie Fain and Peter Kwon are running in the general election for King County Council District 5 on November 4, 2025.

		Candidate
		Steffanie Fain (Nonpartisan)
	Submit photo	Peter Kwon (Nonpartisan)

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	There are no incumbents in this race.
= 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 King County Council District 5

The following candidates ran in the primary for King County Council District 5 on August 5, 2025.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Submit photo	Peter Kwon (Nonpartisan)	27.9	9,093
✔		Steffanie Fain (Nonpartisan)	24.2	7,896
		Kim-Khanh Van (Nonpartisan)	23.4	7,654
		Ryan McIrvin (Nonpartisan)	11.6	3,792
	Submit photo	Angela Henderson (Nonpartisan)	6.9	2,254
	Submit photo	Ahmad Corner (Nonpartisan)	6.0	1,958

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	There were no incumbents in this race. Source	Total votes: 32,647
= 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.

Endorsements

To view McIrvin's endorsements as published by their campaign, click here. To send us an endorsement, click here.

Campaign themes

2025

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Ryan McIrvin completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by McIrvin's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’m Ryan McIrvin, a Renton City Councilmember, father of two daughters, ultramarathon runner, and dedicated advocate for sustainable growth, affordable housing, and strong public safety. I’m running for King County Council because I believe our communities deserve pragmatic, values-driven leadership that focuses on creating opportunity, improving quality of life, and preserving our environment.

In my time on Renton City Council, I have worked to increase the supply of affordable housing by supporting zoning reforms and development projects near transit. I have advocated for expanded transit service to reduce congestion and improve access to jobs and services. I also prioritize investments in public safety programs that provide support to people experiencing homelessness and mental health challenges.

Beyond elected office, I have a background in policy and advocacy with experience in economic development and local government. I serve on the board of the Issaquah Alps Trails Club, where I help preserve and maintain trail access for outdoor recreation. Running ultramarathons has taught me the value of persistence, teamwork, and incremental progress, which I bring to my public service.

I am proud to call this region home and honored to serve the community where I am raising my family. I look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with residents, businesses, and partners to build a stronger, more affordable, and safer King County for everyone.

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?

• 1. Building Affordable, Sustainable Communities Affordable housing is one of the biggest challenges facing King County. I am committed to expanding housing options by supporting smart growth strategies that focus on building near transit hubs and existing infrastructure. This includes advocating for zoning reforms that allow diverse housing types like accessory dwelling units and middle housing. At the same time, I believe we must protect our open spaces and natural resources to maintain the region’s quality of life. By balancing development with conservation, we can create communities that are both affordable and sustainable for current and future generations.
• 2. Prioritizing Community Safety and Support Community safety goes beyond policing—it requires a holistic approach that includes mental health services, substance use treatment, and stable housing options for those experiencing homelessness. I support investments in public safety programs that provide coordinated responses tailored to individual needs. This means improving emergency services, increasing outreach and case management, and building partnerships that address root causes of crime. I am dedicated to fostering safe, inclusive neighborhoods where everyone has the support and security they need to thrive.
• 3. Driving Results Through Collaboration and Accountability Effective leadership means bringing people together to find practical solutions and delivering measurable results. I prioritize transparency, fiscal responsibility, and data-driven decision-making to ensure taxpayer dollars are used efficiently. Eliminating waste and redundancies in government programs is critical to maximizing impact. I listen closely to diverse voices across the community and work to build consensus around policies that move King County forward. My campaign is about steady progress, collaboration, and accountable governance that puts people first.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am passionate about sustainable growth that balances the need for more housing and economic opportunity with protecting our environment and open spaces. Thoughtful development near transit helps reduce sprawl and preserves the natural areas that make our region special and unique. As an avid trail runner, I deeply value parks and trails because they provide critical access to outdoor recreation, promote physical and mental health, and foster connections within our communities. Supporting the maintenance, expansion, and equitable access to our regional trails system is a top priority for me. Together, sustainable growth and vibrant parks and trails help build resilient, healthy communities that enhance quality of life for all residents.

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

I look up to my dad, whose example has deeply shaped who I am both personally and professionally. Growing up, I witnessed his dedication, integrity, and unwavering commitment to doing what is right, even when it was difficult. He taught me the value of hard work, honesty, and treating others with respect and kindness.

My dad was active in the Lions Club and served as an adult leader in my scout troop. Through his involvement, he demonstrated the importance of community service and giving back. He took me hiking and backpacking, instilling in me a love for the outdoors and an appreciation for nature’s challenges and rewards.

He also ran marathons and inspired me to take up running as a way to push my limits and develop discipline. His example showed me how perseverance and setting long-term goals can lead to meaningful achievement.

What I admire most about my dad is his resilience and ability to remain calm and thoughtful in challenging situations. Whether facing personal or professional obstacles, he demonstrated patience and problem-solving skills that often led to positive outcomes. His example motivates me to approach public service with a similar mindset focused on listening, collaborating, and finding practical solutions.

His commitment to fairness, respect, and perseverance is the foundation of my political philosophy. I am grateful for the lessons he has taught me and aspire to reflect his character in my leadership.

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

For anyone wanting to understand my political philosophy, I recommend A Theory of Justice by John Rawls. This foundational work in political philosophy emphasizes fairness, equality, and the importance of designing social institutions that protect the most vulnerable members of society.

Rawls introduces the idea of the “original position” and the “veil of ignorance,” a thought experiment where individuals choose principles of justice without knowing their own place in society. This encourages rules that are fair and just for everyone, especially those with the least advantage. His concept of “justice as fairness” deeply influences my approach to policymaking.

My philosophy is grounded in the belief that government should create equitable opportunities for all residents and protect those who face systemic barriers. This means supporting policies that address affordable housing, access to quality education, and economic opportunity, while also balancing individual rights and community well-being.

Rawls’s emphasis on fairness and moral reasoning inspires my commitment to pragmatic, inclusive leadership that listens to diverse voices and strives for consensus. I believe that public policies must be evaluated not only by their outcomes but by how just and equitable their processes are.

Reading A Theory of Justice provides valuable insight into the ethical foundations of democratic governance and the responsibilities elected officials have to promote a just society.

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

I believe the most important characteristics for an elected official are integrity, accountability, collaboration, pragmatism, and a deep commitment to serving the community.

Integrity means being honest, transparent, and consistent in word and deed. Voters must trust that their representatives will act ethically, put the public interest above personal or political gain, and communicate openly even when decisions are difficult.

Accountability is essential. Officials must be answerable to their constituents, willing to listen, accept feedback, and adapt policies when needed. They should use data and measurable outcomes to evaluate the effectiveness of programs and be willing to eliminate waste or duplication to maximize impact with public resources.

Collaboration is critical in today’s diverse communities. Effective leaders bring people together across differences, build consensus, and seek win-win solutions. This means listening to a wide range of perspectives and working respectfully with colleagues, stakeholders, and community members.

Pragmatism guides good decision-making. While values and vision are important, solutions must be practical, achievable, and informed by evidence. I believe in relentless incremental progress, like training for a marathon. Success requires steady effort and realistic steps, not just grand promises.

Finally, elected officials must have a commitment to community. They should have a genuine desire to improve people’s lives. This includes focusing on equity, ensuring that policies serve all residents fairly, especially historically underserved groups, and fostering a sense of shared purpose and belonging.

Together, these principles form the foundation of effective, trustworthy leadership that can navigate complex challenges and deliver meaningful results for the community.

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

I believe several qualities I possess will make me a successful officeholder. First and foremost, I bring a strong commitment to integrity and ethical leadership. I understand that public trust is earned through honesty, transparency, and putting the community’s interests above all else. I hold myself accountable to the highest standards and work hard to maintain that trust every day.

I am a pragmatic problem-solver who focuses on results. I believe in listening carefully to diverse perspectives and using data and evidence to inform decisions. This approach allows me to find common ground and craft policies that deliver real, measurable benefits. I am comfortable navigating complex challenges with patience and persistence, knowing that meaningful progress often comes incrementally.

Collaboration is a core strength of mine. I have experience bringing people together across differences to build consensus and shared solutions. I value respectful dialogue and believe that diverse voices make policy stronger. I work well with community members, stakeholders, and fellow officials to move initiatives forward.

In addition, I am deeply connected to this community and understand the unique needs and opportunities we face. As a lifelong resident and public servant, I am committed to serving all residents with fairness and empathy.

My background as a trail runner and outdoor enthusiast has also shaped my character. Running ultramarathons has taught me discipline, resilience, and the importance of steady effort toward long-term goals. These qualities translate directly into my approach to public service.

Lastly, I am dedicated to transparent and accountable governance. I believe government should be accessible and responsive, with clear communication and openness to input.

Together, these qualities equip me to be a thoughtful, effective, and trustworthy leader who can deliver results for our community.

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

The core responsibilities of a King County Councilmember are to represent the diverse interests of constituents, develop and enact policies that improve quality of life, oversee county budgets and services, and ensure government accountability and transparency.

First and foremost, a councilmember must listen to the people they represent. This means engaging with communities across the district, urban, suburban, and rural, to understand their needs, concerns, and aspirations. Effective representation requires balancing diverse perspectives and advocating for policies that promote equity, inclusion, and opportunity for all residents.

A key responsibility is policy-making. Councilmembers set priorities on issues such as affordable housing, transportation, public safety, environmental protection, and economic development. They must analyze complex challenges, work collaboratively to develop solutions, and pass legislation that advances the well-being of the county.

Fiscal stewardship is another critical duty. Councilmembers approve the county budget, which funds a wide range of services including public health, parks, roads, transit, and social programs. They must ensure tax dollars are spent efficiently, reduce waste, and prioritize investments that provide measurable benefits. Transparency and accountability in budgeting build public trust.

Oversight and accountability extend to county departments and agencies. Councilmembers hold hearings, review performance data, and work with the executive branch to improve service delivery. They must be vigilant in ensuring government programs are effective and responsive.

Finally, councilmembers serve as community leaders and conveners. They bring together stakeholders, residents, businesses, nonprofits, and other governments to foster partnerships that address shared challenges. By building consensus and facilitating dialogue, they help create a more connected, resilient county.

In all these roles, a councilmember must be

What legacy would you like to leave?

The legacy I hope to leave is one of meaningful, lasting progress that improves the quality of life for all residents of King County. I want to be remembered as a leader who listened deeply to the community, built bridges across differences, and worked tirelessly to create equitable opportunities for everyone.

I hope my efforts will have helped expand affordable housing options while protecting our environment and open spaces, ensuring that future generations can thrive in vibrant, sustainable communities. I want to leave a legacy of safer neighborhoods where public safety is paired with compassionate support for those facing behavioral health and homelessness challenges.

Additionally, I want to be known for bringing transparency and accountability to government, making it more responsive and trustworthy. I aspire to inspire others to engage in public service and believe that steady, pragmatic leadership rooted in collaboration and persistence can move communities forward.

Above all, I want my work to reflect a deep commitment to fairness, inclusion, and the common good. A legacy that encourages future leaders to keep pushing forward, one step at a time.

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

The first historical event I clearly remember from my lifetime is the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. I was just shy of seven years old at the time, having been born in September 1982. Even as a young child, I recall the images and stories of this momentous event being broadcast on television and discussed by adults around me.

The fall of the Berlin Wall symbolized the end of the Cold War and the beginning of a new era of hope, freedom, and the possibility of bridging deep divisions. It was a powerful reminder that even long-standing barriers, whether physical or ideological, can come down when people demand change and work toward unity.

Although I was young, this event left a lasting impression on me about the importance of courage, perseverance, and the pursuit of justice. It highlighted how collective action and resilience can overcome oppression and bring about meaningful transformation.

As I have grown and taken on roles in public service, that memory has inspired my belief in building bridges within communities, fostering collaboration, and working relentlessly for progress. The fall of the Berlin Wall serves as a reminder that no challenge is insurmountable when people come together with shared purpose.

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

My very first job was as a summer camp counselor at Camp Hahobas, a Boy Scouts of America camp, where I worked for six consecutive summers in various roles. I began as a lifeguard and aquatics instructor, responsible for ensuring camper safety during swimming activities and teaching swimming skills. This role taught me the importance of vigilance, responsibility, and clear communication.

Over time, I took on greater leadership responsibilities, serving as an area director for basic scout skills. In this role, I oversaw instruction in essential outdoor skills and helped develop youth’s confidence and competence in nature. Additionally, I helped lead a high adventure program that included mountain biking, rock climbing, and backpacking, providing challenging and rewarding experiences for campers.

These experiences were foundational in shaping my leadership style and values. I learned how to foster teamwork, encourage personal growth, and lead by example. Working in these roles required patience, adaptability, problem-solving, and a deep commitment to service.

Those six summers ignited a lifelong passion for the outdoors and public service. The lessons I learned about responsibility, collaboration, and mentorship continue to guide me today in my work advocating for parks, trails, and sustainable community development as an elected official.

What is your favorite book? Why?

One of my favorite books is Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins. His story of transforming pain into purpose resonated with me deeply. Goggins doesn't sugarcoat struggle. He leans into it, using it as fuel to grow stronger. That mindset has shaped how I approach both running and public service. Whether I'm pushing through mile 80 of a 100-mile race or working to find consensus on tough policy issues, I draw on the same belief: growth comes from embracing discomfort and staying consistent. Goggins’ emphasis on discipline, accountability, and mental toughness has stayed with me and continues to push me to be better in every aspect of my life.

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

If I could be any fictional character, I would choose Spider-Man. What stands out to me about Peter Parker is how he balances great responsibility with everyday life. He’s relatable, humble, and always strives to do the right thing, even when it’s hard or inconvenient. That sense of duty, combined with his resilience and humor, really resonates with me. Like Spider-Man, I believe leadership means serving your community, showing up consistently, and facing challenges head-on while staying grounded. Plus, his story reminds me that anyone can make a difference, no matter where they start.

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

"Carry On Wayward Son" by Kansas has been stuck in my head recently. It’s a song that brings to mind the idea of perseverance through uncertainty and self-doubt. As someone who has taken on big challenges, whether training for ultramarathons, navigating the demands of public service, or balancing work and family, I've often found myself in that space between feeling overwhelmed and pushing through anyway. The song reminds me that progress doesn’t always feel easy or linear, but it’s worth it. That mindset of carrying on, even when the path is unclear, is something I bring into my work and my life every day.

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

One significant struggle in my life has been balancing the demands of public service and family life. Serving the community requires a great deal of time, energy, and attention, and at times it has been challenging to find the right balance between my responsibilities as an elected official and being present for my family.

This struggle has taught me important lessons about time management, prioritization, and the value of support networks. It has strengthened my commitment to effective planning and making deliberate choices that honor both my professional duties and my role as a father.

Through this challenge, I have also gained a deeper understanding of the everyday pressures many families face in our community, from juggling work and caregiving to finding affordable housing and reliable transportation. These experiences have made me more empathetic and motivated to advocate for policies that support families and promote work-life balance.

Ultimately, facing this struggle has helped me grow personally and professionally, reinforcing the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and maintaining a clear sense of purpose.

Tell us your favorite joke.

I would tell you a construction joke, but I’m still working on it.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Organizational Endorsements:

King County Democrats
King County Young Democrats
AFT Washington (American Federation of Teachers)
Teamsters Local 117
The Urbanist
FairVote Washington
Fuse WA – Progressive Voters Guide

Elected Officials Supporting Ryan McIrvin:
Steve Hobbs, Secretary of State
Steve Bergquist, 11th Legislative District State Representative
My-Linh Thai, 41st Legislative District State Representative
Armondo Pavone, Mayor of Renton
Iris Guzmán, Deputy Mayor of SeaTac
Ruth Pérez, Renton City Council President Pro-Tempore
Ed Prince, Renton City Councilmember
Marli Larimer, Kent City Councilmember
Verna Seal, Tukwila City Councilmember

Hannah Hedrick, Tukwila City Councilmember

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I believe financial transparency and government accountability are foundational to a healthy democracy and effective public service. When government operations and spending are open and accessible to the public, it builds trust, encourages civic engagement, and ensures taxpayer dollars are used responsibly.

Transparency means clear, timely reporting of budgets, expenditures, contracts, and program outcomes. Residents should be able to easily find and understand how their money is allocated and what impact it is having. This openness not only deters waste, fraud, and abuse but also empowers the community to provide informed feedback and hold leaders accountable.

Accountability goes hand in hand with transparency. Elected officials and government agencies must be answerable to the public for their decisions and performance. This includes regular audits, performance evaluations, and mechanisms for residents to report concerns or request information. It also means being willing to make tough decisions, such as cutting programs that do not deliver results, and continuously improving service delivery.

I advocate for the use of data-driven decision-making to measure the effectiveness and efficiency of government programs. By tracking measurable outcomes, we can identify what works, allocate resources wisely, and demonstrate progress to the community. Transparency and accountability are not just ethical imperatives but practical tools that lead to better governance.

In King County, where the needs are diverse and complex, these principles are critical for ensuring equity and fairness in resource allocation. They foster a culture of trust that enables collaboration across government, community organizations, and residents. I am committed to championing policies and technologies that increase transparency, promote open communication, and hold government accountable to the people it serves.

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.

Other survey responses

Ballotpedia identified the following surveys, interviews, and questionnaires McIrvin completed for other organizations. If you are aware of a link that should be added, email us.

• VoteWA Profile

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