Jessica Bateman, Washington State Representative and former Olympia Councilmember, today announced her campaign for the State Senate. Bateman, a Democrat, is running for the 22nd LD open seat following Senator Sam Hunt’s retirement, which includes Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, South Bay, and Boston Harbor.

“Senator Hunt has been a dedicated public servant and effective advocate for the 22nd District and beyond,” said Bateman. “The investments he fought for to build safe and healthy communities, and contributions to our Democracy, will have a lasting impact across our state. He is a model for me as I work to serve in the State Senate.”

“As an Olympia Councilmember, 22nd district Representative and community leader, Jessica has demonstrated a keen awareness of the needs of our communities and been effective at getting results that move us all forward. She has my full support to represent the district as our next State Senator.” – Senator Sam Hunt

“From day one, Jessica Bateman became a leader to address our housing crisis. She has worked tirelessly for healthy communities, and I know she will continue to advocate for great public schools, family wage jobs, healthcare access including reproductive care, and investments in infrastructure and small businesses.” – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland

“In the Legislature, Rep. Bateman has spent years making real progress on housing affordability, urgent action on climate, and opportunity for every Washingtonian. Her leadership and policy expertise will be an asset in the State Senate for the 22nd district and neighbors across our state.” – Lt. Gov. Denny Heck

First elected to the State House in 2020, Bateman has proven herself a champion on housing, healthcare, and supporting our seniors. In the Legislature, she led passage of HB 1110 to increase our middle housing supply across Washington State, worked to ease barriers on constructing tiny homes, and provide stability for renters. Bateman also helped secure over $1.2 billion dollars to address our housing & homelessness crisis by increasing the supply of affordable housing.

An emerging leader on health access and affordability, Bateman reduced barriers to maternal health and preserved access to mifepristone – both essential elements of comprehensive reproductive care.

“I want to bring the same focus and dedication to the Senate to ensure no one is left out or left behind,” said Bateman. “My priorities are tackling our affordable housing crisis, increasing access to equitable healthcare, including behavioral health, protecting our climate and environment and increasing support for our seniors. I would be honored to earn your support!”

Prior to her election to the State House, Bateman served on the Olympia City Council where she led the successful Home Fund campaign to create more affordable housing options in Olympia. The Home Fund later grew to become a regional program, leveraging even more resources for affordable housing.

Bateman grew up in the Puget Sound and is a proud graduate of Green River Community College and Evergreen State College where she earned a graduate degree in public administration and undergraduate in environmental studies.