How it all began...
Thanks for visiting my website. It is an honor to represent the people of the 44th legislative district, which includes all or parts of Everett, Mill Creek, Lake Stevens, Snohomish and unincorporated Snohomish County.
This web page will be updated throughout the day to provide you with the latest information on what’s happening at the legislature. You will find press releases, photos and audio and video clips about subjects important to your family like education and health care.
I have been a member of the Washington State Senate since 2006. I serve as vice-chair of the Financial Institutions & Insurance Committee, and sit on the Early Learning & K-12 Education and Ways & Means Committees.
In addition to representing the people of the 44th district, I am a member of the Washington Army National Guard and proudly served in Iraq and Kosovo.
Based on strong input from my constituents, I have adopted an expansive policy agenda which includes promoting clean energy legislation; the development of a four-year university in Snohomish County; and the expansion of skill center programs at the high school level.
I am a proud husband and father. I have been married to my wife Pam since 1995 and together we are raising three boys: Gavin, Truman, and Winston. (Truman and Winston were named after two of my heroes, Winston Churchill and Harry Truman).
Raised by a single mother, I was taught to value education. In 1994 I earned a bachelor’s degree in political science at the University of Washington. I also hold a degree from Everett Community College.
I have been honored by numerous civic and community organizations for my legislative work and military service. My public service honors include:
- 2009 Housing Hero, Snohomish County Camano Association of Realtors
- 2009 Business Champion, Joint Snohomish County Chambers of Commerce
- 2009 Certificate of Appreciation, American Legion 96 Snohomish County
- 2008 Legislator of the Year, Washington Council of Police and Sheriffs
- 2008-2009 Legislator of the Year, Washington Association for Career and Technical Education
- 2007-2008 Business Champion, Joint Snohomish County Chambers of Commerce
- 2007-2008 Legislative Leadership Award, Statewide Poverty Action Network.
My military awards include:
- Meritorious Service Medal
- Joint Services Commendation Medal
- Army Commendation Medal
- Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal
- National Defense Medal
- Kosovo Campaign Medal
- Iraq Campaign Medal
- Army Service Ribbon
- Expert Infantryman's Badge
- Parachutist (Airborne) Badge
During my free time I enjoy listening to music and reading. One of my favorite musicians is Huey Lewis.
Elected Office: Elected to Washington State Senate, 2006. Vice-chair of the Financial Institutions & Insurance Committee and sits on the Early Learning & K-12 Education and Ways & Means Committees.
Family: Married to Pam since 1995. Three sons: Gavin, Truman, and Winston.
Education: 1994 BA Degree in Political Science, University of Washington; 1992 AA Degree, Everett Community College; 1988, Graduated from Lake Stevens High School.
Employment: State Senator 2007-Present; Army National Guard 2005-Present; Facilities Manager, University of Washington 2005-2007; United States Army (Active) 1996-2005; Loss Prevention, Sears 1987-1996; United States Army Reserves 1987-1996.
Civic/Community Organizations: Lake Stevens Rotary, American Legion, Nisei Veterans Chapter of Seattle, Southeast Snohomish YMCA Board Member, Army and Air Force Mutual Aid Association.
Civic Awards: Business Champion of Snohomish County, Chambers of Commerce of Snohomish County; Legislative Leadership Award, Statewide Poverty Action Network.
