It’s election season.

So today, we’re bringing you the first in a series of candidate debates hosted by KUOW.

This week, we’re looking at the candidates running for King County Executive

Whoever wins this race will lead one of the largest regional governments in the United States.

And, for the first time in 16 years, there isn’t an incumbent on the ballot.

Two county leaders are vying for the job. Soundside’s Libby Denkmann hosted the two candidates — Claudia Balducci and Girmay Zahilay — for a debate at the KUOW studios.

We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed.

Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marinakis on 50k capacity, Brian Clough remembered and Ola Aina on eggs