OLYMPIA — 24th District Senator Kevin Van De Wege made it official today, announcing he will step down from his legislative seat effective Oct. 2. He ends an 18-year career in state politics.
“It was a dream come true and the honor of my life to do this job for 18 years,” Van De Wege said in a statement. “I’m proud of what we accomplished for communities across the peninsula and the state.”
50-year-old Van De Wege revealed that he had already decided in 2022 that this would be his final term. He said he’s leaving with great memories and the belief that he did his best, even if he didn’t win every battle.
“I step aside knowing our communities are in good hands,” he added, expressing gratitude to his colleagues and constituents in Clallam, Jefferson, and Grays Harbor counties.
Van De Wege was first elected to the House in 2006 and has served in the Senate since 2017. He chaired the Senate Agriculture, Water, Natural Resources & Parks Committee and also sat on the Ways & Means and Health & Long Term Care committees.
In addition to his legislative work, Van De Wege has had a long career as a firefighter. He currently serves as a captain for Clallam County Fire District #3. He lives at Lake Sutherland with his wife, Jennifer, and they have two adult children.