Rep. Skyler Rude giving a speech on the House floor. (Photo by Jacquelyn Jimenez Romero/Washington State Standard)
State Representative Skyler Rude of Walla Walla (R-16th) announced Sept. 29 that he will resign from the Washington House of Representatives three days before the Nov. 3 general election to take a position with Democratic Secretary of State Steve Hobbs.
Rude plans to step down Oct. 31 and begin work Nov. 1 as Hobbs’ legislative director. His resignation means his name will remain on the November ballot for the 16th Legislative District, despite his planned departure from office. Rude has represented the district, which includes portions of Walla Walla, Franklin, Benton, and Grant counties, since 2018.
Rude said the job opportunity became final only recently, after ballots for the August primary had already been distributed. He said he chose to announce his plans before the election rather than wait until afterward.
The timing could result in two vacancies if Rude wins the election. One would cover the remainder of his current term, while another would begin in January with the new two-year legislative term. Under state law, local party officials would select a replacement to fill a vacancy, depending on the election outcome.
Democratic challenger Derek Sarley said he was surprised by the announcement and raised concerns about voters having a role in the replacement process if Rude wins. Rude has encouraged voters who want a Republican to represent the district to continue supporting his candidacy.
Rude serves as assistant floor leader for House Republicans and is the ranking Republican on the House Education Committee. He also serves on the Appropriations and Postsecondary Education and Workforce committees.
In addition to leaving the Legislature, Rude plans to close his stagecoach tour business in the Walla Walla Valley. He said his new role will allow him to continue working on issues involving Washington’s history and election administration.
