On Monday, The King County and Pierce County councils appointed Federal Way City Councilmember Jesse Johnson to serve as the new State Representative for the 30th Legislative District. With the appointment, Johnson fills the seat vacated by former Rep. Kristine Reeves, who resigned in December.
The councils selected Johnson from a slate of three candidates chosen by Democratic precinct committee officers in the district and approved by the State Democratic Party. The other nominees were Jamila Taylor and Sam Rise. The state constitution required joint action by the councils, as the 30th Legislative District includes areas in both King and Pierce counties.
“I have worked with Jesse Johnson during his time on the Federal Way City Council and I am looking forward to continuing to work with him at the state level on behalf of South King County,” said King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer. “The issues we face are regional in nature and I want to work in collaboration with all members of the South King County delegation to help solve these issues.”
King County Council Chair Claudia Balducci applauded Johnson’s appointment.
“Thanks to the 30thLegislative District Democrats for their commitment to the process and for submitting a strong slate of candidates for consideration by the King and Pierce county councils,” Balducci said. “Congratulations to Representative Jesse Johnson, who has proven himself to be a community leader. I know he will listen and represent his district and we will be fortunate to have him working for King County in Olympia.”
Known as a tireless, passionate, and dedicated youth and family advocate in the field of education, Johnson has served on the Federal Way City Council since 2018. He received his Bachelors in Political Science and Masters in Education from the University of Washington. Prior to his current role, Johnson served in different capacities within the field of education including College and Career Readiness and Family Engagement at the high school and district office level. i
Johnson moved to Federal Way with his family in 1996. He attended Nautilus Elementary, Sacajawea Middle School and Federal Way High School where he graduated with Honors.
The legislative session officially began earlier Monday in Olympia.
