As Washington’s 16th Secretary of State, Steve Hobbs works to ensure every eligible Washingtonian’s voice is heard in secure, accessible elections.

Since 2021, Steve Hobbs has safeguarded the integrity of Washington elections by investing in cybersecurity, security improvement grants to counties that conduct elections, and fighting election misinformation.

“We will be successful if we can rebuild trust that has been eroded the past seven years. That trust must be built on respect, transparency and humility, and repeated demonstrations of success,” Hobbs said.

In bipartisan fashion, the Legislature funded Hobbs’ request for a new division focused on strengthening cybersecurity and fighting election misinformation. These professionals defend election systems and collaborate with county election administrators on security and communication.

“Threats to our election infrastructure are real and evolving,” Hobbs said. The Office of the Secretary of State now provides resources in election security grants that aid counties in the purchase or upgrade of security software and hardware, hiring of information technology security personnel, structural security improvements, and more.

Hobbs increased investments in voter outreach, including eligible voters who are young, in tribal and underserved communities, have disabilities, are non-English-speakers, and new state residents. “I am committed to protecting the rights of every eligible voter, and engaging new voters where they are,” Hobbs said. The office continues to develop new outreach programs to state prisoners through the Community Engagement Team and Institutional Library Services program. “For those leaving prison, access to civic participation and a card to their local library are keys to starting again,” he said.

Starting in the 2023 primary election, Hobbs instituted text messaging that notifies voters when their ballot has been received and accepted by their county election director. This also serves to notify voters when there is a problem with their ballot, such as a signature mismatch or a voter forgot to sign their ballot. “A text message when your ballot is processed adds transparency and trust in our system,” Hobbs said.

During his long tenure in the Washington State Senate, Hobbs chaired the Transportation Committee. In that key role, Hobbs developed a reputation as a champion of bipartisanship, and led the statewide implementation of investments at the core of our transportation strategy.

Well-equipped to lead election administrators through security challenges and the current global climate, Hobbs studied and analyzed cyberattacks and information warfare at the Defense Information School (DINFOS) and the Command and General Staff College. He brings real-world experience working with the National Security Agency while on active duty.

Secretary Hobbs is the proud son of an Asian immigrant who raised him to work hard, value education, and serve others. He has worn the uniform for more than 30 years. Currently a Lieutenant Colonel in the Washington Army National Guard, Hobbs completed tours in Kosovo and Iraq, and he recently commanded more than 750 members in Task Force Olympic, a Western Washington response mission to the COVID-19 pandemic.