Diogo Magelhaes and Russell Joe are running for position 5 on Issaquah City Council in the November 2025 general election. The two candidates answered a series of questions in the fall 2025 issue of Community Connect magazine.
Ballots will be sent in the mail Oct. 17. Be sure to vote by Tuesday, Nov. 4, at 8 p.m.
-
Introduce yourself.
Diogo – From Macau to Portugal to the United States, my journey as a first-generation immigrant has shaped my deep belief that America’s greatest strength lies in its diversity and shared purpose. With over 20 years’ experience in community engagement, legal education, and corporate and nonprofit leadership, I bring a global perspective and a commitment to building bridges across cultures—guided by compassion and sustainability as the core values of our community.
Russell – I am a 30-year resident, a father of two teenagers, and a dedicated advocate for Issaquah. I believe making Issaquah a “Special Place Where People Care” is a worthy civic goal. Therefore, you might see me leading a committee meeting, MCing the Salmon Days Parade, or singing in the community choir. It has been an honor to serve on the Issaquah City Council, and it would be my privilege to continue to serve you.
-
What inspired you to run for Issaquah City Council and what’s your top priority if elected?
Diogo – I believe local government offers our best chance to foster respectful politics and inclusive governance. As neighbors equally invested in our community’s success, we can move beyond partisan divides to focus on what matters most: our families, our homes, and our shared future. My top priority is ensuring Issaquah grows sustainably and compassionately, creating a community where every resident feels supported, valued, and engaged.
Russell – My initial decision to run for City Council was driven by a desire to ensure that local government operated efficiently and delivered essential services effectively. Through regional collaboration on parks, police, drinking water, and fire services, we have managed to keep costs down while maintaining a high-quality level of service. If re-elected, my top priority will be to continue advancing policies that keep Issaquah affordable and safe for all that choose to live here.
-
What leadership qualities do you bring that make you the right choice for this position?
Diogo – While my background includes launching a nonprofit in corporate governance, working for a Fortune 5 subsidiary, and teaching law for over a decade in Europe and the U.S., I believe leadership is about more than credentials. What I bring are the qualities that matter most: cultural elasticity, deep empathy and compassion, a willingness to listen and adapt, and a genuine commitment to building alliances so that we can grow and thrive together as a community.
Russell – I believe in leading by listening. I approach each conversation with a foundational understanding but prioritize hearing the perspectives and concerns of others. This enables me to lead with authenticity, thoughtfully synthesize information, and adapt my views when warranted by new insights. While consensus is not always possible, I am committed to making my reasoning transparent, so that residents not only understand my position, but also the rationale behind my decisions.
-
In your view, what’s the most important step the city should take to build resilience against emergencies and keep our community safe?
Diogo – The most important step is strengthening our shared sense of community. Emergencies—whether natural, or rooted in broader challenges like gun violence, mental health, or economic inequality—are best faced together. Resilience is built when neighbors see themselves as an extended family, supporting and protecting one another. By fostering stronger neighborhood connections and investing in inclusive safety measures and training, Issaquah can ensure every resident feels prepared, supported, and secure when challenges inevitably arise.
Russell – Investing in emergency energy infrastructure—such as the development of a microgrid—is a crucial step toward resilience. The bomb cyclone served as a reminder that weather-related challenges will continue to impact our community. Ensuring that resilience centers and other critical locations have reliable power, allows residents to remain safe, connected, and supported during emergencies. I fully support the City’s ongoing efforts to study the feasibility of microgrids and to secure additional emergency generators.
-
How will you keep residents engaged in city decisions and ensure their voices are heard?
Diogo – Effective governance demands transparency and genuine engagement. Voters deserve to know where their representatives stand on key issues and to be heard in shaping those decisions. I’m committed to regular town halls and accessible feedback portals while being present throughout our community soliciting input —you’ll find me approachable and always willing to engage constructively. I welcome your perspectives as opportunities to deepen my understanding on the issues. My campaign website continuously shares updated policy positions.
Russell – Meaningful engagement begins with visibility and accessibility. I prioritize attending community events, visiting neighbors, and connecting with residents in our parks and public spaces. These interactions create opportunities for open, honest dialogue and help me stay attuned to a broad range of perspectives. I believe that by being present, actively listening, and fostering two-way communication, we can ensure residents remain informed and their opinions are genuinely considered in city decisions.
-
What was the first thing that made you fall in love with Issaquah?
Diogo – What first made me fall in love with Issaquah was the stunning Issaquah Alps and natural beauty surrounding us, then discovering an old historical town with a young, innovative, and diverse identity nestled amid it all. Here, neighbors still smile at each other, creating genuine community. Most importantly, there’s so much hope for future generations—a shared belief that we can build something meaningful together for those who will call Issaquah home.
Russell – After moving to Issaquah, I paused one morning to take in the mist gliding through the forested hills. It was a quiet moment that revealed Issaquah’s natural beauty. I learned that in 1993, the City Council had identified this very phenomenon, “Clouds, mists that float and rise through Issaquah Alps,” as one of the city’s official treasures. That moment captured the essence of Issaquah for me and has remained a lasting symbol of its beauty.
-
Salmon or Sasquatch?
Diogo – Sasquatch
Russell – Salmon
Candidate statements not edited by Highlands Council.
- Meet the candidates running for Issaquah Mayor
- Meet the candidates running for Issaquah City Council, Position 1
- Meet the candidates running for Issaquah City Council, Position 6
- Meet the candidates running for Issaquah School Board, Director District 2
- Meet the candidates running for Issaquah School Board, Director District 4
- Meet the candidates running for Washington State Senate, District 5
As published in fall 2025 issue of Community Connect magazine >>>
