FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 2, 2021

The Senate Democratic Caucus today welcomed Yasmin Trudeau as the next senator of the 27th Legislative District following the retirement of Sen. Jeannie Darneille (D-Tacoma). The Pierce County Council voted to appoint her on a 7-0 vote, and she was sworn in by Washington Chief Justice Steven González.

“Yasmin will have an immediate and positive impact on the Senate and the state as a whole,” said Senate Majority Leader Andy Billig (D-Spokane). “She will hit the ground as one of the most prepared new senators this body has ever seen. Her advocacy, empathy and passion for people and public service will be an asset and an inspiration for her fellow legislators and for the people of the 27th Legislative District.

“She brings a much-needed perspective and strong voice on many, many important issues. I’m so pleased to be able to welcome her to the Senate.”

“It’s the grit of this community that has shaped me,” Trudeau said during the Nov. 2 Pierce County Council meeting. “And it inspires me to represent the people of the 27th, the people of this city and the people of Pierce County in the legislature.

“I don’t believe that anybody just deserves to be an elected official. To me, leadership is representing the interests of your constituents and earning and constantly re-earning the opportunity to represent your community.”

Trudeau previously served as the legislative director for the Washington State Attorney General’s Office. Before that, she was a policy analyst for the Washington State Senate Democratic Caucus, where she staffed the Senate Agriculture, Water, Trade & Economic Development committee and the Senate Ways & Means Committee on capital budget. She joined the caucus team after having run the office of then-state Sen. Pramila Jayapal as her legislative aide.

Trudeau brings extensive legal experience to her new role as state senator. Since graduating from Seattle University School of Law, she has held multiple externships – including one for Justice Mary Yu – in the state of Washington. And as a Bengali-American, Trudeau is the first woman of color to serve as senator for the 27th Legislative District.

“It’s been my honor to serve this district in the legislature for 21 years, and I’m proud to pass the baton to someone as committed to our neighbors as Yasmin,” said Darneille. “Her deep roots in the community include graduating from Foss High School. Her devotion to the district, her vision for the people that live and work here, and her experience in the legislature will be powerful assets.”

Trudeau’s appointment takes effect immediately. Her first session as state senator begins Jan. 10. A special election will be held in 2022 to fill the remainder of the term.