More than a week after the mid-term elections, we are still awaiting final results in some races here in our state and around the country. Voter turnout was the big news this year, with higher than typical voter turnout this mid-term. Election results in Washington will be certified November 28 for most races, but there could be a few that go to recounts.
The elections had a direct impact on our state legislature with the Democrats widening their majority in both houses. Currently the House is made up of 50 Democrats and 48 Republicans and the Senate is made up of 25 Democrats and 24 Republicans. In January, the House will have 56 Democrats and 40 Republicans (with 2 races still too close to call) and the Senate will have 27 Democrats and 20 Republicans (with 2 races still too close to call).
One of the exciting trends this election was the addition of at least five city officials who were elected to the legislature (one of the too close to call races also includes a city council member so the number could go up). It is always good news for the city family when we add legislators who have city experience, especially this year since some of our city legislative champions are retiring.