Vote Barajas

Barajas Builds Bridges.

Real Change. Real Accountability. Real Action.

Polished Platform

 My name is Blanche Barajas. I was elected to serve in the Pasco city council in 2018, becoming the first Latina elected to the council in Pasco’s history. In 2020, my peers elected me as the Mayor Pro tem and then as mayor in 2022. I work at the Washington Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs and serve on the Sexual Offenders Policy Board, amongst other groups of social justice and youth health awareness. I am a strong community and social justice advocate. I have a BS in Business Administration and an AAS in Criminal Justice. 

I am a second-generation daughter of immigrant parents. I was born and raised in California, and as a Mexican American, my diverse experiences include helping my parents work in the fields to ensure that I and my siblings understood the value of a strong work ethic, no matter the difficulty. I have also served as a mentor to underprivileged youth and am now serving as an Executive Director at a Nonprofit. I am the mother of two young men: one in the US Army National Guard and both students at WSU.

Policy Support

I have made it my life’s ambition not to be a statistic among statistics. In this, I work hard to set the bar high, not just for myself but for those around me as well. I strongly believe in grassroots outreach and have learned that face-to-face outreach gains trust and support. I worked for three years to gain support for HB 6157; I spoke with Police Chiefs, County Sheriffs, Highway Patrol Officers, and stakeholders like the Washington State Police and Chiefs Association, Washington Association of Cities, and Washington Association of Counties. Then, I worked my way to speak to House representatives, legislators, and senators to gain support for the initiative and get it passed. It gained support to make it on the Legislative Priority list of several organizations and cities. It took three years because there were many questions, uncertainties, and non-supporters; however, enough people believed that DACA recipients should have an opportunity to serve as public safety servants since many have already served in our military system. The power of knowledge and education can garner like-minded people to side with the facts.  

Housing

Like many Pasco residents, I’m tired of seeing broad disparities and an overall lack of services for specific populations and areas of town. I’m discouraged by the misrepresentation many of these communities are receiving, and it’s time to fix that. Living in a city that has grown from 137,000 population to 182,000 population in just over five years, we have seen firsthand the need for accessible housing; affordability is a concept adopted by developers that, in reality, does not help the families that work 10-12 hours a day at minimum wage and still struggle to make ends meet. Economic development often puts our local cities in competition with one another when seeking businesses to site within city limits and surrounding areas to realize revenue, jobs, stature, etc. I have been part of changing policies that have helped create better housing opportunities for low-income. I have advocated for change in PMCs that will allow ADUs to help mitigate housing needs and continue to work on developing policies that will foster a comprehensive change to gain support from the governor and other stakeholders to attract more funding to allow for low-income, actually affordable and accessible housing.

Public Safety

Public safety and the well-being of communities lie with an open mind and willingness to have conversations with community leaders and police departments. Public safety is an essential element of a healthy and secure society. Many cities have held themselves to higher standards to ensure they work with the community and are involved in community policing initiatives. The city of Pasco police, for example, train their officers for up to three times as many hours as other cities; they hold dual certifications and CALEA in service standards. 

A genuine desire to improve the quality of life of its residents and have a cohesive relationship with the officers who are sometimes our neighbors is a path forward to prevention. Creating and collaborating in programs like Business Watch, Block Watch, or Coffee with a Cop are ways to develop outreach efforts for a better society. Often, our cultures teach us not to report a crime or that police are all scary or corrupt, stemming from the experiences of others or actions caused by others.  A clear and conscious effort must be made to hire and retain officers who are willing to go to mandatory routine testing and additional training and willingness to be in situations that require socializing with diverse communities and cultures. Accountability for these actions helps build resilient communities and stronger partnerships and bonds with those committed to protecting our livelihood.

Democracy and Voting

I have made it my life’s ambition not to be a statistic among statistics. I checked every disparity box, every stigma, and every statistic. I work hard to set the bar high, not just for myself but for those around me as well. I believe that direct action has the power to effect real, measurable change and be the voice that the people of Franklin County need. I am a direct beneficiary of a voting rights lawsuit. This action took the At-Large system to district-based voting, allowing a higher voter turnout ( 3% to 17%) in my new district, allowing me to be the first elected Latina in Pasco’s 136-year history. Most recently, I have continued to testify at the legislature and have been an outspoken advocate for voter rights. The most recent re-districting has caused conflict where the voice of Latinos continues to be washed out for the very rural counties and cities. A stronger voice and vigorous advocacy efforts must demonstrate the need and desire to maintain a united stand for ourselves. Partnerships with organizations that have the power to support these efforts are essential, campaigning, canvassing, and organizations like the ACLU to help our efforts for a more uniform, equitable reform.

Environment

At a local level, again, forging strong partnerships with developers, engineers, and policymakers involved in the sustainability of the present needs of growing communities without compromising the future by adequately managing resources. Water rights, for example, are a huge topic as cities expand and resource rights are being sold or purchased by conglomerates only to sell them to cities at higher prices. Corporate purchase of water rights makes it harder for cities to provide basic needs at a manageable cost. 

Realizing that the global damage has already had an enormous impact, we need to work together to pass stricter policies that protect natural resources and create programs that regulate ecosystems by instilling fines and penalties or incentives where applicable.

Education

I support the expansion and growth of programs in our community that will help the youth be prepared for a brighter future. I support creating an infrastructure that will help bring opportunities to communities such as Franklin County by creating venues to promote a more robust science, technological, and artistic-oriented community. I also support forming a solid partnership with the school districts for a more cohesive work plan and combining efforts to help the next generation of students have the right tools to prepare for the careers and jobs they choose.

Labor

Before being involved in politics, I represented my co-workers as a shop steward for a couple of years and took part in contract negotiations. My job was eventually eliminated, and I started working full-time with OPEIU Local 8 as a project organizer for the same group of employees where I was a shop steward. The contract negotiations were stellar matches of compromises as I knew the tricks the employers were using already. While these negotiations were happening, I also helped AFT in organizing conversations on starting a union for rural Head Start staff. We trained the future shop stewards and taught GED to those who needed to keep their jobs by providing basic education certification. I also joined picket lines for UFW workers against Darigold; we organized large groups of workers and showed up to sites in support of staff actively being threatened with job loss and even deportation. I participated in conversations that involved bringing senators and congresspeople from different states in Mexico, where most workers were from. As a migrant kid growing up in an immigrant home, we moved every year following the harvest, we made new friends in many places, and we lived through living with little to no worldly possessions as we now have. So, protecting something as basic as the will to work and the right to provide better for their families, I have always been involved in protecting people’s right to work. As retired UFW strawberry and broccoli workers in California, my parents taught me the value of a dignified work environment no matter the job.

Mentoring

• I mentor ALAS — Ambassadors of Lakeview Achieving Success — for underprivileged and disenfranchised youth.

• I am a lunch buddy with the school district- placed in a tier 1 school.

• I am a Safe Kids Coalition board member, which focuses on ACES from birth to six years. 

• I am a board member of a foundation that works with programs focused on helping expand community services.

• I am a board member for a youth foundation that focuses on children from ages nine to 17 who live in single-parent households.

• I mentor at our local juvenile center.

• I participate in routine food distribution to homeless people on the streets and participate in the annual homeless count.

• I have recently joined the African American Chamber of Commerce

• I work with diverse and talented people in the very diverse community that I live in.

Also

I have surrounded myself with people with different perspectives and different experiences in life. Connection with a wide variety of people is the true meaning of living in a welcoming society.

My campaign’s website has yet to be finished as the individual working on it is in the military, and by social standards, he is young and a minority who is starting his micro business. Volunteers solely run my campaign, and those wanting to learn politics and have a desire to be involved in policy making and, most of all, changing the way politics are represented in the future and how we, as different thinkers, represent our communities.

Short Form Platform

My vision for Franklin County is one where we embrace innovation, promote sustainable growth, and build a future that honors our past while looking forward with optimism and determination.

Our community is a tapestry of diverse cultures, rich history, and boundless potential. As your next County Commissioner, I am committed to nurturing this potential, ensuring that every resident has the opportunity to thrive.

Born to immigrant parents in California, I learned the value of hard work and community service early on. Throughout my leadership and community engagement career, I have witnessed our county’s challenges and opportunities firsthand. I understand the importance of creating policies that foster economic development while preserving our natural resources.

I am a dedicated advocate for infrastructure improvements, educational advancements, and accessible healthcare for all. My approach will be grounded in transparency, inclusivity, and collaboration. I will make sure that your voice is heard and every concern is addressed.

Together, we can create a resilient and prosperous Franklin County. I believe in the power of community and the strength that comes from working together towards common goals.

As your County Commissioner, I will bring a fresh perspective, unwavering dedication, and a heartfelt commitment to serving our community. Let’s build a brighter future for Franklin County, where every resident can flourish.

Elevator Pitch

My vision for Franklin County is to embrace innovation, promote sustainable growth, and honor our past. I am committed to ensuring every resident thrives in our diverse community.

Born to immigrant parents, I value hard work and community service. My career has shown me the need for economic development while preserving natural resources.

I advocate for better infrastructure, education, healthcare, and positive police-community interactions. My approach is transparent, inclusive, and collaborative, ensuring your voice is heard. Together, we can build a resilient and prosperous Franklin County where everyone flourishes.

Key Positions

Affordable Housing

Affordable housing in Pasco will be a top priority through collaboration with developers, policymakers, and community organizations. I will advocate for funding, support initiatives like Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), and streamline zoning processes to increase housing availability. My goal is to address housing disparities and ensure that all residents have access to safe, affordable homes.

Improved Education

To improve education, I will advocate for increased school funding, support essential programs, and promote partnerships for career training. Enhancing STEM and arts education will prepare our youth for future jobs. I will ensure all children have access to quality education and the resources they need to thrive, building a brighter future for Franklin County.

Strong and Accountable Law Enforcement

Public safety and positive police-community interactions are essential. I will support community policing initiatives that encourage collaboration between law enforcement and residents, such as programs like Business Watch, Block Watch, and Coffee with a Cop. Promoting transparency, accountability, and additional training for officers will build trust and ensure that our police force effectively serves our diverse community. My goal is to create a safe and cohesive environment where everyone feels protected and respected.

Sustainable Environmental Policy

Protecting our environment and promoting sustainable practices are critical. I will advocate for the conservation of natural resources, support initiatives that reduce pollution, and ensure responsible development. Water rights are a critical issue, and I will work to secure fair and sustainable water management policies. Collaborating with local stakeholders can create a healthier, more sustainable Franklin County for future generations.

Fair Wages and Safe Working Conditions

With extensive experience advocating for workers’ rights, I bring a strong commitment to labor issues. As a former shop steward and project organizer, I’ve negotiated contracts and supported union efforts. Ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and job security is paramount. I will champion policies that create a dignified and equitable work environment for all workers in Franklin County.

Inclusive Democracy

Strengthening democracy and ensuring fair voting practices are crucial. I believe in the power of every vote and will protect and expand voting rights. Advocating for policies that increase voter participation, ensure transparent elections, and prevent voter suppression will help build a more inclusive and representative democracy for our community.

Short Form Key Positions

Affordable Housing

I will prioritize affordable housing in Pasco by collaborating with developers, policymakers, and community organizations. I will advocate for funding, support initiatives like Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), and streamline zoning to increase housing availability, ensuring all residents have access to safe, affordable homes.

Improved Education

I will advocate for increased school funding, support essential programs, and promote partnerships for career training. Enhancing STEM and arts education will prepare our youth for future jobs and ensure all children have access to quality education and resources.

Strong and Accountable Law Enforcement

Public safety and positive police-community interactions are essential. I will support community policing initiatives, promote transparency and accountability, and provide additional training for officers to build trust and effectively serve our diverse community.

Sustainable Environmental Policy

I will advocate for the conservation of natural resources, support pollution-reducing initiatives, and ensure responsible development. Addressing water rights and collaborating with local stakeholders will create a healthier, more sustainable Franklin County.

Fair Wages and Safe Working Conditions

With extensive experience in labor rights, I am committed to ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and job security. I will champion policies that create a dignified and equitable work environment for all workers in Franklin County.

Inclusive Democracy

I believe in the power of every vote and will protect and expand voting rights. Advocating for policies that increase voter participation, ensure transparent elections, and prevent voter suppression will build a more inclusive and representative democracy for our community.