Jonathan Bingle

Jonathan Bingle lives in Spokane, Washington. Bingle attended Rogers High School and Spokane Falls Community College. His career experience includes working as a business owner.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’m Jonathan Bingle, a Spokane City Councilman, small business owner, former pastor, and father of three. I was born and raised in Spokane and have dedicated my life to serving this city. As a Rogers graduate, I've lived in northeast Spokane my whole life. Before joining the Council, I helped plant and pastor a church on the Northside, built a successful events business with my wife, and worked in youth and community development.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Clean and Safe, First and Always

First and foremost, Spokane MUST be clean and safe. We can’t talk about growth, investment, or revitalization until we get the basics right. Spokane must be a city where families feel safe, businesses can operate without fear, and public spaces are clean, secure, and welcoming.More Housing, Without Destroying Neighborhood Character

Spokane needs more housing but we need to build it in a way that respects the fabric of our neighborhoods. I’ve spent my entire four years on the City Council working to increase the housing supply citywide, with a specific focus on creating first-time homebuying opportunities. That means removing unnecessary barriers to development, supporting infill where it makes sense, and making it easier for working families to own a home without drastically changing the neighborhoods they want to be part of.Good Jobs, Lower Taxes, and Affordable Living

I want Spokane to be a place where businesses can grow, families can thrive, and people can afford to stay. That means supporting job creation, cutting unnecessary taxes and fees, and stopping the policies that are driving up the cost of goods and services for everyday people.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I’m deeply passionate about making sure the voices of District 1 are heard. As a born-and-raised, lifelong resident of Northeast Spokane, I’ve seen firsthand how often this part of the city is overlooked when it comes to investment, services, and representation. That’s personal to me. I know what it’s like to feel forgotten by City Hall, and no one will fight harder to lift up the voices of District 1 than I will. Ensuring our neighborhoods get the attention, resources, and respect they deserve has been, and will continue to be, my driving focus.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the state government and legal system?

City council might not be the flashiest office in government, but it is one of the most important because it is close to the people. We are not debating things in theory or passing laws for some distant group. We are making decisions that affect your streets, your neighborhood, your parks, your safety, and your utility bill.

What makes this role unique is that you do not need to go through layers of government to get to me. People stop me at a store, at community events, and in church lobbies to talk about what matters to them. That is how it should work.

We are also the first line of defense when it comes to holding local government accountable. If something is not working, we hear about it quickly and we are in a position to take action. The decisions we make might not always make the news, but they shape the daily lives of everyone in the city. That is why this office matters.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look up to men who led with conviction, courage, and a deep sense of purpose. That starts with Jesus, the model of servant leadership and truth in the face of opposition. I also admire King David and the great prophets who spoke boldly and stood firm, even when it cost them everything.

In American history, I look up to George Washington for his humility and restraint, and for willingly stepping away from power when he could have kept it. I admire John Adams for his intellect and moral clarity, and Abraham Lincoln for leading with both strength and compassion during one of the most divided times in our nation's history.

I respect modern leaders who understand discipline and excellence, like Tom Brady and Bill Belichick. They show what it means to pursue greatness with focus and consistency over time. I also look to thinkers like C S Lewis, Winston Churchill, and Theodore Roosevelt, men who understood the weight of responsibility, the importance of character, and the value of perseverance.

I try to learn from men who were not perfect, but who stood for something greater than themselves and who held the line when it mattered most. That is the kind of example I want to follow.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

For anyone who wants to understand my political philosophy, there's a LOT to read. But, here's a few key works I’d recommend that have shaped how I view government, leadership, and the responsibilities of public office:

The Federalist Papers – Particularly the writings of James Madison. These essays offer deep insight into the structure and intent behind our Constitution, emphasizing limited government, checks and balances, and the dangers of consolidated power.

“Democracy in America” by Alexis de Tocqueville – A brilliant outside perspective on the strengths and vulnerabilities of American self-governance, especially the role of virtue, faith, and civil society in sustaining liberty.

“The Law” by Frédéric Bastiat – A concise and powerful defense of the idea that the proper role of government is to protect life, liberty, and property, not to overstep and attempt to engineer society.

Each of these works reflects core themes I believe in: limited government, individual responsibility, moral clarity, and service grounded in principle rather than ambition.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

An elected official should first and foremost understand the purpose and limits of government. The American system was built not to centralize power, but to restrain it, recognizing that liberty, not control, is the natural state of a free people. Elected officials are not rulers—they are stewards. Their duty is to defend the Constitution, protect individual rights, and uphold the rule of law, not to use government as a tool for social experimentation or personal ambition.

I believe the most essential traits in a public servant are:

Integrity: The courage to speak truth and act justly, even when it costs politically.

Humility: A recognition that power is held in trust, not owned.

Restraint: The wisdom to say "no" to government overreach, even when it’s popular.

Conviction: A moral foundation rooted in natural law, not shifting cultural trends.

Accountability: A willingness to answer to the people, not hide behind bureaucracy.

The Founders designed a system dependent on the character of those in office. As John Adams warned, “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.” Without virtue, even the best systems will decay.

Our politics today is overrun with performance and ambition. What we need instead is depth and leaders who understand history, respect the law as written, and are grounded enough to serve the people rather than manipulate them.

In my view, the best elected officials are those who preserve what’s proven, challenge what’s broken, and never forget who they work for.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibilities of a city councilmember are simple, but critical: protect the rights of the people, ensure the safety and order of the city, steward taxpayer dollars responsibly, and be a voice for the residents you represent.

Local government is not meant to be ideological, it’s meant to be effective. That means focusing on the basics: public safety, infrastructure, housing, economic development, and responsive service. It means listening more than lecturing, and acting with restraint and recognizing that every new regulation, mandate, or tax impacts real people trying to build a life here.

For me, it also means fiercely representing District 1, an area that has historically been underserved. The job is not to build a personal brand or vie for higher office, it’s to show up, do the work, and make sure the people who elected you are seen, heard, and respected.

At its best, this office is about protecting freedom, enforcing fairness, and preserving the kind of city where families, businesses, and communities can thrive.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The most impactful would've been 9/11. I remember being in my Freshman high school social studies class and my teacher just had it on the TV. He said, "We're watching history right now."

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I started working at Jiffy Lube as a sophomore in high school for my old baseball coach. I worked there for 3 and a half years.

What is your favorite book? Why?

My favorite book is the Bible. It is the foundation of truth, wisdom, and purpose. Everything in it still speaks to the challenges we face today. It points us to the source of life, gives clarity in times of confusion, and reminds us who we are and what really matters.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Something my wife and I have struggled with is having children. There was no medical explanation, but for about six years we were unable to get pregnant. It was a season filled with hope, disappointment, prayer, and a lot of waiting.

It is something that affects more people than most realize, and it often happens quietly. I can still feel that heartbreak when I meet others who are walking through the same thing. It has made me more compassionate, more patient, and more aware of the battles people are fighting that you cannot always see.

Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?

One thing most people do not realize is just how much influence city council has over the daily feel of the city. We are not just voting on major issues. We are approving zoning decisions, land use rules, public safety policies, and spending priorities that shape what gets built, where businesses can open, and how tax dollars are used.

Another important but often overlooked responsibility is our role in budgeting. The mayor can propose a budget, but it is the council that decides what actually gets funded. So if you are frustrated about how money is being spent or not spent, we are the ones to talk to.

We also serve as the de facto water board for the city. That means we make key decisions about utility rates, water infrastructure, and long-term planning for one of our most essential resources. It impacts every household and every business, yet many people do not realize that this falls under our authority.

On top of that, we appoint people to boards and commissions that influence everything from housing to parks to utilities. These roles shape city policy in quiet but powerful ways for years to come.

The bottom line is this job comes with a lot of responsibility that is easy to miss. And that is exactly why it matters who is sitting in these seats.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics?

I believe it is more important to have good people in office than people with political experience. Before I was elected, I had never held office or worked in politics, and honestly, I think that helped me. It kept me grounded in real world perspective rather than political games.

Experience can be helpful, but it can also be a problem. It can lead to tunnel vision, group thinking, or a sense of entitlement. Just because someone has been in the system for a long time does not mean they are making it better.

What matters most is character, common sense, and a willingness to listen, to learn, and to lead with integrity. That is what I bring to the job, and what I believe voters truly want.

What kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess?

I think the most helpful things for someone in this office are listening, good judgment, thick skin, and a short memory. You need to be able to hear people out, make thoughtful decisions, take criticism without falling apart, and move on quickly when things get tough, because they will.

It also helps to have some experience with budgeting or policy making, since a lot of the job involves working with money, setting priorities, and understanding how decisions play out in the real world. But in the end, character and common sense matter more than credentials. If you can listen, stay grounded, and stay focused on what is best for the people you represent, you will do just fine.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the local government?

This office is unique because it is the most direct link between the people and their local government. City councilmembers are the ones closest to the ground. We hear from residents daily about what is working and what is not. Whether it is public safety, road repairs, or how tax dollars are being spent, we are involved in the decisions that impact everyday life.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I think financial transparency and government accountability are just basic expectations. If you’re spending the public’s money, the public has every right to know where it’s going, why it’s being spent, and whether it’s actually working.

Too often, government acts like it’s playing with Monopoly money. Budgets get bloated, programs get funded just because they always have been, and no one seems to ask, “Is this actually helping anyone?” That’s not just wasteful, it’s disrespectful to the people who are paying the bill.

I believe in putting everything on the table. If we can’t explain it clearly and justify it, we shouldn’t be spending it. And when government gets something wrong, which happens, we need to own it, fix it, and move forward. No spin, no excuses.

At the end of the day, it’s your money, not ours. The least we can do is be honest and responsible with it.

Other survey responses

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VoteWA Profile

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I'm born and raised in Spokane, WA. I have a beautiful family of 5 with my wife Christina. Together, we own a business, Bent Events. I'm a current city councilman in the city of Spokane.

As a city councilman, I was censured my first month in office for refusing to wear a mask in city hall and opposing the COVID authoritarianism.

As the son of missionaries, I've been helping spread the gospel my entire life. As a pastor of 17 years, I've been helping lead others in righteousness in my local community.

As a full-time business owner of 15 years, we have built a great life for ourselves and weathered many storms including COVID. COVID was my awakening to the problems in this country and the impetus for my current involvement in politics.

As a community leader, I volunteer for many organizations including being on the boards of the Girl Scouts of Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho, and Junior Achievement of Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho.

I enjoy boating with my family, recreational sports including golf and softball, and reading.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Secure the Border

Less than a month after I launched my campaign, I visited the southern border to learn from the local sheriff, local elected officials, and border patrol about the most critical issue facing the country. I learned what you can only learn from seeing it with your own eyes: It's worse than you can imagine in almost every conceivable way.

To correct the failed Biden policies, we must:

1. Fix the asylum process by limiting the amount of individuals who can claim asylum in our country and making them prove they're in grave danger if they were to return to their own country.

2. Codify President Trump's "Remain in Mexico" policy.

3. FINISH THE WALL

3.

2.Slash the federal budget

Federal spending is out of control and will drive this country into bankruptcy. If we want to correct inflation, if we want the dollar to matter on the world stage, if we don't want our children to be taxed at 90+%, we must correct our wild spending habits at the federal level. I have an economic plan that will correct this:

1. Cut the corporate tax rate to 15%.

This will make the United States far more competitive on the world stage, will allow for a rise in wages, and will spur investment in our economy.

2. Eliminate or leave a skeleton crew for five departments of the federal government: Energy, HUD, Commerce, Interior, and Education.

3. Increase defense/police spending by a net $150 billion over 10 years.Restore Parental Rights

We are in an age where the government believes they know how to better raise your children than you do. They don't know their name, they don't know their favorite color, they don't know their different cries, etc. You and I as parents should have the ultimate say in the education and rearing of our children. One way we'll achieve this goal is by eliminating the department of education.

For too long our children have been forced to learn about ideologies that hate basic biology, common sense, and the United States of America. I would actively pursue federal policies that allow for the tax you pay to follow your child allowing you to choose the school of your choice for your children.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I'm interested in:

1. Restoring America's energy independence

2. Restoring the American dollar to its rightful place as the world's currency

3. Restoring the Christian ethic and morality

4. Restoring America's reputation as the world's lone hegemon

5. Restoring the greatness of the American military

6. Restoring order and safety to American cities

7. Removing subsidies throughout the American economy

8. Requiring drug tests for benefits such as food stamps

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

The Heritage Foundation is a good place to start

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity.

I've been truly disappointed by the amount of double speak by both Democrats and Republicans. Speak the truth, say what you mean and let God sort it out.

Courage

Too many in the public square act in their own self interest and preservation rather than standing for what they believe or anything really. Without an anchor for your soul, you will be swayed by the tides of public opinion and unworthy of your position. Let God be our guide. Let his laws be ever present on our hearts and lips.

Perseverance

To see the changes we need to see in America, it will require a steadfastness on behalf of our leaders to withstand the barrage of attacks from those that hate our beliefs both foreign an domestic. We must continue toward righteousness until the job is done.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Educate and Represent.

There are a lot of issues where there will be a disconnect of knowledge between the representative and the electorate. My job as an elected official is to take that knowledge back to my people and present it as fairly and accurately as possible. There will be questions on the information so I must have a good grasp of the knowledge to be able to adequately and responsibly answer them. Once that work is done, my job is to represent.

To the best of my ability, I have always represented what my people asked for. The lone caveat here is that I will never contradict my own personal faith no matter how badly people may want me to.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

There are many but the most life-changing historical event would be 9/11. I remember I was in social studies, Mr. Simmons was the teacher, and I remember him saying, "We're not learning history today. We're watching it unfold." I was 14 at the time.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first job was at Jiffy Lube! I truly loved that job and working on cars. I worked there all through high school.

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

It's the lawmaking and budget making authority. The greatest power in the country should rest in the body most closely tied to the people.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

Yes and no. Experience helps you understand how to navigate government. It can also come with strings or allegiances that compromise the office.

What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

America is in the midst of an identity crisis. Who we are moving forward will be determined by the next generation of great American leaders. Will we continue to be a nation that adheres to Western philosophy or will we transition into a post-Christian era like Europe? That won't happen on my watch.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

Yes. The framer's of the constitution are much smarter than I am and by divine providence shaped the greatest government the world has ever known.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

BIG FAN! I think Congress should be limited to 12 years in either chamber. 12 Years for the House, 12 years for the Senate.

Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Ron DeSantis

Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

Too many to count. The most impactful to me personally were the ones dealing with COVID and how their children, employment, businesses, etc. were affected.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

In many ways, YES! To create lasting policies, there must be widespread support for that policy otherwise we will continue to be yanked around every four years.

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

We don't have an income problem in American government, we have a spending problem. We don't need to increase taxes on the American people, we need to reduce spending.

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

Wisely

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Pastor's Picks, Stevens County Republican Party

What committees interest you?

Energy and Commerce (if they exist), Education (if it exists), Judicial

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

As a pastor, we have an open book policy. Any congregant at any time can come take a look at our books for however long they'd like and we'll answer any questions they may have. Since churches are driven by the financial contributions of the congregation, they have every right to both review and help determine how the money is spent.

Government is no different. Since government doesn't create anything (it only takes), we must practice radical transparency on every aspect of our governance.

Campaign website

Bingle’s campaign website stated the following:

Eastern Washington

Has been blessed with an abundance of natural resources. Not the least of which is our People. From all walks of life, from the Canadian border to Oregon, the People of Washington State’s most eastern congressional district deserve a champion who will protect and preserve our way of life.

In no particular order, the following are among my priorities and positions which I will stand by. Please check back often.

At our borders, in our skies, and on our streets …

I do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.

From human trafficking to new waves of illicit drugs, cyber threats and aggressive panhandling, it is time to refocus policies that spend billions understanding the problems and start solving the problems.

Border Security. The Biden border policy has allowed more than six million illegal crossings. I will support those who stand and serve on our southern border as well as those at the northernmost communities of Washington State. The Wall is not isolationism. It is a necessary tool to help protect the process of legal immigration. Some of my dearest friends are recent immigrants. Their pride in America runs deep. And they are here legally.

Fairchild AFB. Thousands of active duty and civilians are employed through our base, which is one of our region’s most critical economic engines. Members of all branches of our armed forces fight for our freedom and complete humanitarian missions across the globe. Ensuring that Fairchild is strong has and must continue to be a top priority of our WA 5th district congressional member.

Veterans. Those who have sacrificed so much can never be fully paid for their service. I am dedicated to working to ensure that services to veterans includes the best healthcare available, including mental health. Our Veterans Administration (VA) must be held accountable. My family, as so many families in the Pacific Northwest and across our nation, includes those who have served in times of crisis and calm. I believe that it is critical increase services to help veterans as they transition to civilian life. Initiatives like “Helmets to Hardhats” are helping our heroes navigate their way every day.

Local Law Enforcement. I have tremendous respect for our police and sheriff’s departments. Recent actions by activist courts and Democrat lawmakers have handcuffed those who answer the call to protect and serve. This is wrong-minded.

In service through Spokane’s City Council I have successfully helped pass new drug laws to reduce the use and possession of drugs in public, and reinstate penalties for trespassing in parks at night.

In previous campaigns, I have been endorsed by the Spokane Police Guild, Sheriff’s and Police Chiefs.

Energy History, Choice, Innovation & Independence

Eastern Washington was fo