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2006 Washington state
Progressive Majority
Elected Candidates
The following elected candidates were in very competitive races.
Their races were crucial elements to change the balance of power and bringing progressive values to the decision making bodies at the state and local level.
Derek Kilmer
Elected to State Senate District 26 (Open Seat)
Gig Harbor, Port Orchard, & Bremerton
Three years ago, the people of the 26th District decided they wanted a change and elected Progressive Majority candidate Derek Kilmer to the Washington House of Representatives. In 2006, the conservative Senator in the 26th decided not to run due to health problems, and Derek won his seat for progressives. Derek was born and raised on the Olympic Peninsula. He received a doctoral degree from the University of Oxford in England where he studied economic development policy, and received his bachelors' degree in public policy from Princeton University.
Claudia Kauffman Redmorningstar
Elected to State Senate District 47 (Open Seat)
Kent, Auburn, Covington, & Black Diamond
Claudia Kauffman is a a Nez Perce tribal member and elected State Senator from District 47. She previously worked as the intergovernmental affairs liaison for the Muckleshoot tribe since 2001 the People's Lodge Project and co-founded the grassroots organization Native Action Network. She sits on the board of trustees of The Evergreen State University. A former foster parent, she is married and is raising her two children in Kent.
Eric Oemig
Elected to State Senate District 45 (Open Seat)
Kirkland, Redmond, Woodinville, Duvall, & Carnation
Eric Oemig spent his high-tech career solving problems - a skill that he will bring to the State Senate. Like many in the 45th District, Oemig moved to the area 15 years ago when he joined Microsoft. Eric has also been active on the Eastside - as a member of the Kirkland Library Board, Hopelink Executive Leadership Council, and Toastmasters International.
The incumbent State Senator, a moderate Republican, recently announced that he would not run again - a testament to Oemig's strong campaign. A state house conservative, Toby Nixon, has announced his candidacy, but is showing very weak fundraising numbers. This race is one of our top opportunities to win in 2006.