Heather Koellen leads race for District 12 State Representative Position 1

CHELAN COUNTY—North Bend City Council Member Heather Koellen (d) leads the race for District 12 Washington State Representative Position 1, breaking ahead of her opponents Brian Barnett (r) and Jennifer Bumpus (r) with a 5.99% overall lead in votes across district 12 as of 8:41 p.m.

Koellen hopes to support Washington communities by expanding access to affordable healthcare for all Washington residents, lowering prescription drug costs, and improving funding for community health clinics.

Koellen also seeks to increase the overall quality of education for every child in Washington, raising funding for public schools and supporting the further development of vocational training programs for students. 

Koellen’s economic concerns revolve around stimulating small businesses through tax incentives, grants, and simplified regulations. She also plans to advocate for the development of local workforces, equipping Washington residents with crucial work experience.

While the race remains close for State Representative Position 1, Koellen has begun to take a notable lead over her opponents, Burnett (r) and Jennifer Bumpus (r). Koellen leads both King and Snohomish Counties with 58.55% of the King County votes over Burnett’s 27.37% and Bumpus’ 13.99%. In Snohomish, Koellen holds 45.68% of the votes, while Burnett holds 33.32% and Bumpus holds 20.93%. The only county Koellen is losing remains Chelan County, with Burnett leading at 49.98% of the vote and Koellen taking 40.27% and Bumpus with 9.68% as of 8:41 pm.

Will Nilles: (509) 731-3211 or will@ward.media