Dear friends and neighbors,
Last week, the legislative session kicked off with my official swearing-in. Joined by friends, family, and constituents, it was a wonderful way to begin our work. Since then, I’ve hit the ground running – meeting with constituents and lobbyists, submitting bills, building relationships with my fellow senators and staff, and discussing different topics on my four committees, two of which I vice chair! I am learning more every day and am honored to serve the 26th!
A Few Session Highlights:
- The Senate Early Learning & K-12 Education Committee heard my bill, SB 5186. It would lower the threshold for school bonds from 60% approval to 55% if passed alongside another bill and approved by voters next November. Read here for more detailed information!
- I’m working to officially nickname Washington as “The Evergreen State,” and the bill was sent to the Senate Rules Committee.
- The Early Learning & K-12 Education Committee also held a public hearing on SB 5307 and 5263, similar bills which aim to better fund special education programs statewide. We also heard testimony on SB 5192 and SB 5187 to more fully fund school transportation and materials costs.
Next Week:
- I’m testifying on SB 5245, which would clarify who can administer the oath of office for state lawmakers. I brought this bill forward because after my appointment I was sworn in by our wonderful County Councilmember Robyn Densen, only later to learn the law was not clear on who had authority to administer the oath.
- I introduced SB 5508 (which I just introduced today!) to address concerns with the child welfare housing assistance program.
- On Wednesday, I’m proud to honor the National Guard with SR 8606. You can watch live at 12:30 on TVW.
Meet Me!
If we haven’t met yet, I’m Deb Krishnadasan.
I was appointed to the Washington State Senate in December 2024, filling the vacancy when Senator Emily Randall was elected as our US Representative. I’m honored to serve the people of Gig Harbor, Key Peninsula, Port Orchard, and Bremerton. In the Senate, I’m vice chair of the State Government, Tribal Affairs & Elections and Agriculture & Natural Resources committees and a member of the Early Learning & K-12 Education and Transportation committees.
I am a lifelong Washingtonian committed to improving educational opportunities for our children and young people, advancing public transportation and infrastructure, and creating an economy that works for everyone.
Growing up on a Puyallup farm in a union household, I learned early the importance of hard work and the power of what we can accomplish together.
Upon completing a bachelor’s degree at Western Washington University — the first in my family to do so — I began a career in communications and human resources for nonprofit organizations like the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Washington-based corporations like Visio and Microsoft.
When my husband (Baiya) our three children, and I moved to Gig Harbor, I became a full-time public school volunteer, serving two terms on the Peninsula School Board including two years as board president. I led five successful levy and bond campaigns allowing the district to fund educational programs, build four new elementary schools, and modernize two of the oldest middle schools.
I have received many awards for my public service, including Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 Citizen of the Year, the Hugh McMillan Award, and the Washington Association of School Administrators’ Community Leadership Award.
I am so thrilled to represent you in the Senate and look forward to hearing from you!
Meet the Staff!

Sen. Krishnadasan with guests – Jan. 13, 2025
Zach Cohen (far right) is my legislative assistant. He was born and raised in Kent and attended Western Washington University — go Viks! He has notable experience in navigating Washington politics, having worked on both the campaign and official side over the past six years. A weekend brunch stop at Devoted Kiss Café in Gig Harbor gets him through the long session days.
Jacob Evanger (middle left) is my session aide. Originally from Alaska, he moved to Washington after earning his master’s degree in political science from New York University in 2023. Prior to joining my team, Jacob managed a campaign in the 26th Legislative District during the most recent election cycle, where he enjoyed getting to know the district and its incredible community. He is also a proud alumnus of Gonzaga University, where he developed his love for basketball. When he’s not answering emails or scheduling meetings, you can find him exploring new food spots or catching a game.
Chloe D’cruz (middle right) is my legislative intern for this session. Originally from Dubai, she moved to Washington four years ago and is now a senior at the University of Washington, majoring in politics, philosophy, and economics. Prior to her work in the Legislature, Chloe interned for a non-profit in Kent. During her free time, she loves going to concerts and exploring record stores.
Hannah Waterman (far left) is my communications specialist. Originally from Bellingham, Hannah moved to Seattle for college, where she studied political science and Classics. She has experience in Congress, market research, and political campaigns across the state. In her free time you can find her reluctantly cheering for the Mariners or walking to Kerry Park.
Contact
Please never hesitate to contact my office! We’re here to serve you and all our neighbors in the 26th Legislative District. I look forward to hearing from you in the coming days.
Phone: 360.786.7650
Email: Deborah.Krishnadasan@leg.wa.gov
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram
We have a busy couple of months ahead of us here in Olympia. Thank you for keeping up with the office and pushing for a better 26th Legislative District!
All the best,
Deb