On the latest episode of sound politics, the vast majority of Americans say that money in politics is a threat to democracy.

Seattle came up with a novel solution.

Give everyone money to donate to candidates.

Now, is that working?

We'll talk about it ahead of the August 5th primary when voters will decide if the democracy voucher program

should stick around. That's on the latest sound politics, wherever you get your podcasts.

Hey, good morning. I'm Patricia Murphy. It's Friday. This is Seattle now. This week, Seattle's known for being a magical place this time of year, but boy, have we upped the ante. It's hot rat summer. The notorious mosaic at Cal Anderson Park is sparking heated debates about art, graffiti, and rats. Plus, new statistics show Seattleites love to ride lime, e-bikes, and scooters,

but we aren't great at wearing helmets. We'll dig into all of it, the science journalist

Jane C. Who and Seattle Met Food and Drink Editor Naomi Tomke. But first, let's get you caught up.

If you have questions for the candidates running to fill the now vacant District 5 Seattle City Council seat, keep them handy. On Monday, Youth Arts Organization Unified Outreach

will host a candidate community forum, go in-person at North Seattle Community College, or watch it online.

The fun starts at 5.30. It's open to the public, and you don't even need to pre-register.

Just show up. This weekend is packed with fun things to do in the city if you're willing to

work around the nightmare I-5 closure-induced traffic. Capital Hill block party starts Saturday and runs through Sunday.

Don't forget, this year it's 21 plus.

In Soto, the Seattle Art Fair is taking over Lumen Field and Events Center.

And in Discovery Park, check out the Seafair Indian Days Pow Wow in its 36th year.

And hey, we don't talk about it too often, but listener's support is what

keeps this podcast going. Congress officially approved a rescission request yesterday that takes

back previously approved funds for public media. It's a serious threat to stations like

KUOW and podcasts like Seattle Now.

If you want to support us, now is the time.

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