by Jesse Hagopian

Aaron Dixon, a community activist for over 40 years and former head of the Seattle Black Panther Party, has announced his plan to run for the U.S. Senate from Washington.

Dozens of supporters and news media packed the conference room at the Cannon House Assisted Living Residence in the Central District of Seattle to see Dixon launch his campaign. Running as the Green Party's candidate, he will be challenging incumbent Maria Cantwell, a Democrat elected by a razor-thin margin six years ago.