Washington State Redistricting Commission Map

information released by Rep. Mike Steele

Dear Friends and Neighbors: Before I begin this update, I’d like to mention that the U.S. Marine Corps will observe its 246th birthday in just a few short days. On Nov. 10, 2021, posts and stations throughout the Corps will celebrate with cake ceremonies, pageants, and even formal balls. Since America’s inception, the Marine Corps has defended our nation in nearly every U.S. conflict.

Just one day later, our nation will celebrate Veterans Day. This federal holiday began in 1919 as a way to remember those who died in our nation’s service during World War I. Veterans Day takes place on Nov. 11 each year because it was on the “eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month” that an armistice was signed between the Allies and Germany — signaling the end of the war. Even now, it’s common for the people of Great Britain and other European nations to observe two minutes of silence at 11 a.m. every Nov. 11.

In the United States, Veterans Day commemorates all people who have worn a U.S. military uniform. It’s an opportunity to pay homage to those who’ve worked so hard to ensure our freedom and take the time to reflect on their heroism so future generations never forget their sacrifice on our behalf. In the words of former president Harry S. Truman, “Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.”

If you or your family are looking for a way to honor a veteran, Military.com offers a few suggestions, including flying a flag, taking part in a parade, writing a letter to a serviceman or woman, or simply taking a moment to ask someone about their service.

Redistricting

As many of you already know, the redistricting process for Washington state has been underway for several months. Every ten years after the federal government publishes an updated census, Washington state redraws the boundaries of its congressional and state legislative districts to ensure that each district represents an equal number of residents.

The Redistricting Commission is comprised of four voting members — two Democrats and two Republicans — picked by the leaders of the Democratic and Republican caucuses in the state House and Senate. The voting members select a fifth nonvoting chairperson. Per state law, the commission must draw the district lines in conformity with strict, nonpartisan rules designed to create districts of relatively equal population that provide fair, competitive representation for all Washingtonians.

For the past several months, the commission members have been debating and deciding on ways to redraw all 10 congressional and 49 legislative districts. The results of their discussions will decide the political future of our state for the next 10 years.

I urge 12th District residents to get involved and make comments on the various proposals of the commission members. Although the maps must be finalized by Nov. 15 — or the process will be referred to the Washington State Supreme Court — there is still time to submit your suggestions to the commission:

Working for you!

The past couple of years have come with several unforeseen challenges for individuals and families, businesses, and communities. Countless constituents have reached out to my office to share their concerns and ask questions about what’s being done to address those issues.

That’s why I’d like to take a moment to share a list of resources that provide a look at the work being done behind the scenes on your behalf, along with resources and links to information that can help.

Take a look:

Public policy issues:

Other resources:

Being a citizen advocate

Together, we can make a difference. With the upcoming 2022 legislative session just around the corner, it’s more important than ever for people to get involved. If you’d like information on how you can be a well-equipped citizen advocate, here are some resources to get you started:

  • Learn about the process online at the Legislative Overview page;
  • Read about How a Bill Becomes a Law, and How to Read a Bill;
  • Use the member rosters to get legislative contact information to send emails, or write letters;
  • Call the toll-free Legislative Hotline at 1-800-562-6000 to leave a message on any issue;
  • Make your views known by testifying before a committee on an issue or bill;
  • Watch and listen to committee hearings live on TVW;
  • Need more information on how the Legislature works? Call the Legislative Information Center at (360) 786-7573.

Other resources:

Stay in touch!

If you have any questions or concerns about state government-related matters, please contact my office. I appreciate your feedback, questions, and concerns. My contact information is below.

Thank you for the honor of allowing me to serve and represent you and the great 12th Legislative District.

Sincerely,

Mike Steele

 

State Representative Mike Steele
12th Legislative District
RepresentativeMikeSteele.com
122F Legislative Building | P.O. Box 40600 | Olympia, WA 98504-0600
mike.steele@leg.wa.gov
360-786-7832 | Toll-free: (800) 562-6000