As voters head to the polls amid a contentious mayoral race in Seattle, we’re looking to the past to try to answer a lingering question. 

It’s hard to win reelection as a Seattle mayor. The last time it happened was nearly two decades ago. 

Why has it been so long? 

We're going directly to the source for more: Democrat Greg Nickels was mayor of Seattle for two terms, between January 1, 2002 and December 31, 2009. He served on the King County Council for 14 years prior to his election. 

KUOW's politics editor Cat Smith brings us that conversation. 

Related Links

Outgoing Mayor Greg Nickels leaves stamp on Seattle - The Seattle Times, published in 2009

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