Olympia Councilmember Jessica Bateman Announces Run for State Legislature
Bateman enters race with endorsements from Congressman Denny Heck, Senator Sam Hunt, Representative Laurie Dolan, and Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal.
Olympia, WA - Olympia City Councilmember, Jessica Bateman, has announced her candidacy for the November 2020 election for the Washington State House of Representatives District 22, which includes Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, South Bay, and Boston Harbor. Bateman is running for the seat being vacated by Representative Beth Doglio who recently announced her campaign for Congress.
Bateman, a Democrat, has served on the Olympia City Council since being elected in 2015. During her time in office, Bateman led the successful Home Fund campaign to create more affordable housing options in Olympia. She also advocated for additional state resources for cities to address housing needs and served on the Association of Washington Cities Legislative Committee, and in 2019, she was elected by her colleagues to serve as Mayor Pro Tem. She was re-elected last November, garnering 66% of the vote.
“As we work to make our communities healthier and more vibrant, the challenges we face at the local level require additional support from the state. Our families are struggling with the increasing costs of housing, stagnant wages, and an overburdened mental health system that has been hit hard by the opioid epidemic,” said Bateman. “We urgently need more housing so people can live in the communities in which they work. We must create a comprehensive mental health system that includes substance use disorder and recovery services. As our state plans for a carbon-free future, we need to build infrastructure and capacity to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect the environment.”
“The 22nd district is a better place to live, work, and play because of Jessica’s leadership. She has my vote and enthusiastic endorsement.”
– Denny Heck, Congressman
“It is vital that we elect a leader who has experience working in legislative and local government. Jessica is the only candidate who meets these criteria. Jessica will be able to step in and get right to work addressing our state’s most pressing issues.
Especially now, it is extremely important that we elect a representative who knows how to attack the state’s toughest problems. Washington faces some of its most historically trying times. Jessica will lead with progressive solutions and will make an excellent member of the 22nd district team!”
– Sam Hunt, Senator 22nd Legislative District
“Jessica is the only candidate who brings experience in the legislature, as Legislative Assistant to Superintendent Chris Reykdal, and as a member of the Olympia City Council, as Mayor Pro-Tem. Through both roles, she has modeled exemplary leadership and has proven that she will be an outstanding representative of the people of the 22nd legislative district.”
– Laurie Dolan, Representative 22nd Legislative District
