Washington State House Republicans select Rep. Dan Kristiansen as leader
Rep. Dan Kristiansen has been re-elected by his legislative colleagues as leader of the Washington State House Republicans. Kristiansen was chosen for his leadership post during the group's reorganizational meeting today.
“It's an honor to once again be elected House Republican Leader. Our caucus is comprised of a dedicated group of legislators representing diverse, engaged communities around the state,” said Kristiansen, R-Snohomish. “Our agenda and the solutions we put forward will focus on the constituents we serve back home. We want to provide students with a world-class education, protect taxpayers and hold state agencies accountable, empower families and strengthen communities. With Republicans and Democrats both in positions of leadership within the Legislature, we'll once again need bipartisan cooperation and input to meet the challenges and opportunities of governing and adjourn within the scheduled 105 days.”
Kristiansen has represented the 39th Legislative District since 2003. He is a former small business manager and owner. Kristiansen and his wife, Janis, have three children and live in Snohomish.
The Washington State House Republicans picked up two new seats in the 2016 general election earlier this month by winning elections in the 19th and 31st Legislative Districts. However, overall caucus membership remains at 48 members as both seats in the 30th Legislative District went to Democratic candidates.
The Washington State House Republicans also elected the rest of their leadership team:
Rep. Joel Kretz, 7th Legislative District (Wauconda) | Deputy Leader
Rep. Shelly Short, 7th Legislative District (Addy) | Caucus Chair
Rep. J.T. Wilcox, 2nd Legislative District (Yelm) | Floor Leader
Rep. Matt Shea, 4th Legislative District (Spokane Valley) | Assistant Floor Leader
Rep. Matt Manweller, 13th Legislative District (Ellensburg) | Assistant Floor Leader
Rep. Dave Hayes, 10th Legislative District (Camano Island) | Whip
Additional leadership positions will be appointed in the upcoming weeks.
The legislative session will begin Jan. 9 and is scheduled to run 105 days.
For more information on Washington State House Republicans, visit:
