U.S. Democratic Rep. Derek Kilmer announced Thursday he won’t run next year for reelection, setting off what could be a scramble as a rare Washington congressional seat opens up.
Since 2012, Kilmer has been elected to Washington’s 6th Congressional District, which includes the Olympic Peninsula and runs across Puget Sound into parts of Tacoma. Born in Port Angeles, Kilmer spent several years in the Washington Legislature before his election to Congress. He sits on the House Appropriations Committee.
In a statement shared on Twitter, Kilmer said that it was time to start a new chapter in life. He recounted writing letters to his children from Washington over the years.
And, “In a letter I recently shared with my kids, I told them what I am now telling the folks I represent: I will not seek re-election next year,” he wrote.
“I never intended for this chapter to be something I’d do for the rest of my life, and – as I shared with my kids – I’m excited to start a new chapter when my term is complete,” he added later.
Known as a moderate Democrat, Kilmer’s work has included sponsoring legislation to get better access to funding for Native American tribes for relocation and amid climate change and rising sea levels. His statement touted efforts to get a new veterans clinic built and protect Puget Sound, among other things.
An email seeking comment to Kilmer’s campaign wasn’t immediately returned.
Within hours of Kilmer's Thursday afternoon announcement, two state senators said they were considering jumping in.
State Rep. Emily Randall, D-Bremerton, said she is “seriously considering” running for the seat.
“It is an opportunity that I cannot help but consider,” said Randall, adding that “It wasn’t in my plan.”
Kilmer called her about an hour before making his announcement, said Randall. She praised Kilmer’s work, particularly his efforts at constituent services, and she touted her own work at the Legislature to expand healthcare programs
“We’ve done good stuff here in Washington, and the opportunity to have an impact on a broader scale is definitely interesting,” she said.
Meanwhile, Sen. Drew MacEwen, a Republican from the town of Union in Mason County, said he is also seriously considering a bid.
"I am giving serious consideration to running for the 6th congressional district," MacEwen said in a message on social media. "Will be discussing with family and supporters and making a decision very soon."