State Rep. Michelle Caldier announces campaign for Emily Randall’s seat in WA state Senate
After a decade in the state House, Washington state Rep. Michelle Caldier is vying for a spot in the upper chamber.
The Gig Harbor Republican has announced her 2025 campaign for state Senate in the 26th Legislative District. A special election will occur next November for the seat vacated by Democratic state Sen. Emily Randall, who is heading to the U.S. Congress.
Randall was slated to resign Sunday, Dec. 8 to transition into her new position. The process to appoint an immediate successor has begun, with a decision expected to be announced Wednesday, Dec. 11.
If elected in November 2025, Caldier would take over for the appointee and finish out the rest of Randall’s state Senate term.
Caldier’s reason for running? Restoring balance to the Evergreen State’s legislature.
“Bringing balance to Washington government means making sure all voices are heard. That isn’t happening in Olympia right now,” Caldier said in the release. “I will work every day in the Senate to hold the majority accountable to all the people. I will continue to reach across the aisle for commonsense solutions that will improve everyone’s quality of life.”
Caldier’s priorities include better equipping law enforcement, reducing crime, improving schools and learning outcomes, and widening access to affordable, quality health care.
State Rep. Spencer Hutchins, a fellow Gig Harbor Republican, has endorsed Caldier, the news release says.
Hutchins, whose term will end in January after he opted against running for reelection, described Caldier’s passion and fighting spirit, saying she “stands up for what she believes is right.”
In 2014, voters first elected Caldier to the 26th District, which includes Gig Harbor, Bremerton, Key Peninsula and Port Orchard. She serves on three House committees: Innovation, Community and Economic Development, and Veterans; Health Care and Wellness; and Regulated Substances and Gaming.
This story was originally published December 9, 2024 at 1:30 PM.
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