Why I’m running for
Whatcom County Council

I love living in Whatcom County, a beautiful community framed by the peaks of the North Cascades and the waters of the Salish Sea. I don’t love how hard it’s becoming for my friends and neighbors to afford to stay here. With more than 20 years of global and local public policy experience, I am running for Whatcom County Council to be your advocate. I’ll advocate for:

  • access to affordable childcare, healthcare, and housing

  • clean air & water

  • job creation

  • oversight, reform, and transparency in local government

  • safe neighborhoods

  • reducing poverty & inequality

  • upholding tribal treaty rights

Having grown up in a tight-knit family of military veterans, educators, and healthcare workers, Jon’s commitment to community and public service is deeply ingrained. 

Jon served at the U.S. State Department, at humanitarian aid organizations, and as a human rights advocate. He has negotiated with countries across the Pacific Rim, won an award for supporting Liberia’s post-war recovery, helped create legislation to provide more transparency for taxpayers, and has supported countless farmers, communities, and Indigenous leaders who stand up for their rights.

Jon demonstrates his deep commitment to our community by serving on local boards at the environmental nonprofit RE Sources and the City of Bellingham’s affordable housing-focused Community Development Advisory Board. Jon is an avid cyclist, completing the Ski to Sea road bike leg, Mt. Baker Hill Climb, and Tour de Whatcom, while getting off road with friends at Galbraith and in the foothills.

Jon and his wife Jennifer, a local obstetrician, live in Bellingham with their two dogs - Rhone and Carl - who love to join in on outdoor adventures across Whatcom County.

About Jon

Excerpt: CDN endorses Jon Scanlon for Whatcom County Council at-large

“Long public service record provides clear edge over challenger Ordos”

10/10/23 — “Jon Scanlon’s public-policy experience, attention to detail and enthusiasm for the challenge of public office make him the superior choice...

He has worked for the U.S. State Department, served as an international human- and Indigenous-rights advocate, and is a member of public committees on environmental and affordable housing concerns....

For the broadest number of voters in a politically diverse county, Scanlon is the clear choice."

Click here to read the full article!

Support Jon’s Campaign

Carl & Rhone don’t know what a campaign is,
but they’re glad you stopped by!