South King News

Rep. Adam Smith, who currently serves in the U.S. Congress representing Washington’s 9th district, recently took to social media to discuss interactions with local city officials and changes within Seattle's governance and law enforcement climate. His remarks, shared on April 9, 2025, provide insights into civic engagements and improvements in public safety metrics.

On April 9, Smith thanked the City of Tukwila for their visit to Washington, D.C., emphasizing collaborative efforts to enhance the city. He stated: "Thanks to @CityofTukwila for making the trip to D.C. to speak with me about how we can keep improving their city."

In another statement posted later the same day, Smith mentioned the changes in Seattle's local government over the past four years. He credited a new city council, mayor, and city attorney with positive outcomes in crime management, although challenges remain in King County. Smith remarked: "New city council, new mayor, new city attorney in Seattle in the last four years and it has made a difference with crime. Still have challenges, especially more broadly throughout King County, but progress is being made."

Discussing recent improvements in public safety statistics, Smith highlighted reductions in shootings, car thefts, and violent crimes, and noted an improvement in police response times. He tied these gains to efforts made since the COVID pandemic, saying: "Shots fired incidents, car thefts and violent crimes are down and homicides are at a five-year low. Police response times have also improved, as officers arrive on the scene 10% faster, making it the first improvement in response times since the COVID pandemic."