State House Democrats today chose Representative Laurie Jinkins of Tacoma as Speaker-elect. She must be elected by the full House in January before the selection is official.

Governor Jay Inslee immediately sent out a statement of congratulations to Jinkins, who stands to become the first woman in state history to serve as Speaker. Jinkins, employed by the Tacoma/Pierce County Health Department, was first elected to the Legislature in 2010.

“I’ve appreciated Laurie’s ongoing partnership in behavioral health and health care, her passionate work on behalf of hard-working families and children, and her commitment to advancing civil rights for all Washingtonians,” Inslee said. “Laurie will be instrumental in shaping the next chapters of Washington’s history.”

Washington Retail as well looks forward to working with Jinkins in helping the retail industry and its employees thrive in the state. The government affairs team met with Jinkins and three other Speaker candidates last week during a House Democrat campaign fundraiser.

Jinkins is set to succeed retired Speaker Frank Chopp of Seattle. Representative John Lovick of Snohomish County has been serving as interim Speaker.