PORT TOWNSEND – 24th District State Representative Steve Tharinger says he will not run for reelection, bringing an end to a 16-year career representing the North Olympic Peninsula in Olympia.
The Port Townsend Democrat announced he will not seek a ninth term in the state House after serving eight terms in the 24th Legislative District.
In a statement, Tharinger thanked residents for the opportunity to serve and said he’s proud of the work lawmakers accomplished on job creation, health care, and infrastructure projects across Washington.
Tharinger was first elected in 2010. The district includes Clallam and Jefferson counties and part of Grays Harbor County.
Before joining the Legislature, he spent more than a decade in local government, including service as a Clallam County commissioner.
During his time in Olympia, Tharinger chaired the House Capital Budget Committee, overseeing billions of dollars in spending on schools, housing, parks, and other public facilities.
He has recently been working remotely while recovering from medical issues.