Senator Karen Keiser (D-33)
A retirement announcement and election wins bring changes and new faces into the legislature, while a few key appointments remain pending. Here’s what you need to know:
- Senator Karen Keiser (D-33) Retires: After serving in the legislature for over 30 years, Senator Keiser announced her decision to retire before the start of the 2025 legislative session. Her seatmate, Rep. Tina Orwall (D-33) has been appointed to fill the vacant Senate seat.
- Senator Emily Randall (D-26) Wins Congressional Election: Senator Randall’s move to Congress has opened her Senate seat. Deb Krishnadasan, who previously served six years on the Peninsula School Board District and has a background in education, has been appointed to succeed her.
- Senator Patty Kuderer (D-48) Elected State Insurance Commissioner: With Senator Kuderer transitioning to her new role, her Senate seat remains unfilled. Both of her House seatmates, Reps. Amy Walen and Vandana Slatter, have expressed interest in the appointment. A decision on Kuderer’s replacement is expected soon.
A decision is still pending on who will fill the vacant house seats. All legislators appointed will run in a special election in 2025.
