Walsh to Seek State Senate Seat

WAITSBURG - Representative Maureen Walsh (R-College Place), has announced she will run for the State Senate seat currently held by Mike Hewitt, who is retiring. Hewitt has been in the Senate for 16 years.

Walsh was first elected to one of the two House seats representing the 16th legislative district, in 2004. "I've been so fortunate to work in the House on behalf of the people in our district for the last 12 years. My seatmates in the Legislature include former Rep. Bill Grant, who passed away in 2009, Representative Terry Nealey and Senator Mike Hewitt. It has been my honor to work will all of these incredible public servants," said Walsh.

Filing for races in the upcoming November election will begin May 16. Walsh plans a campaign kickoff event at the Pioneer Park Garden Center in Walla Walla on May 14.

In the House, Walsh is ranking chair of the Early Learning and Human Services Committee and co-sponsored the bill to establish the state's Department of Early Learning. She also currently serves on the House Capital Budget Committee.

"My passion for early learning is to help empower parents to be their kids' first and best teachers in life," she said. "Growing up with a brother with a developmental disability has inspired me to work hard on behalf of our folks with disabilities to achieve the best quality of life possible."

In a separate announcement, State Representative Terry Nealey (R-Dayton) said he will seek reelection to his 16th District seat in the House. Nealey has held that position since 2010.

"There is a strong possibility the Republicans could take control of the House in the coming election," Nealey said. "I believe my relationship with members on both sides of the aisle, as well as my experience and knowledge as ranking member on the Finance Committee, will be important in addressing the challenges ahead of us in the upcoming year."

Besides his Finance Committee position, Nealey also serves on the Economic Revenue and Forecast Council, and the House Technology, Economic Development Committee.

More information about Walsh and Nealey's candidacies can be found on their campaign websites at walshforsenate.com and terrynealey.com.