Bob Ferguson, Washington’s newly elected governor, has announced the formation of a 53-person team to assist with his transition into office, following his victory in the 2024 gubernatorial race. The team will help implement Ferguson’s priorities for the first 100 days of his administration and work on enhancing government services for Washington residents.
A Diverse Team to Shape the Future of Washington
Ferguson’s transition team is composed of a wide variety of individuals, representing both political parties, local governments, unions, business sectors, tribes, and advocacy groups. The team includes mayors such as Lisa Brown of Spokane, Carl Florea of Leavenworth, and Victoria Woodards of Tacoma. There are also several current and former state lawmakers, including prominent Democrats Monica Stonier, House majority floor leader, and Andy Billig, former Senate majority leader, as well as Republican Rep. Tom Dent from Moses Lake.
Notably, former Democratic state Senator Mark Mullet, who was Ferguson’s primary opponent, is also part of the team, demonstrating Ferguson’s commitment to bipartisanship and collaboration.
Representation from Various Sectors
In addition to political figures, Ferguson’s team includes representatives from the business sector, such as lobbyist Denny Eliason and Dave Mastin from the Association of Washington Business. Labor groups, including April Sims, president of the Washington State Labor Council, and Sterling Harders, president of Service Employees International Union 775, are also well-represented.
The transition team also reflects diverse community interests, with leaders from the Kalispel, Snoqualmie, Puyallup, and Quinault tribes. Environmental organizations, police advocacy groups, and Planned Parenthood of Washington are also part of the team, ensuring a broad and inclusive approach to Ferguson’s governance.
Goals and Priorities for the First 100 Days
Ferguson emphasized that the transition period is a crucial time for Washington, and he expressed gratitude for the team’s dedication. The team’s primary role will be to assist Ferguson in implementing practical, commonsense solutions to the state’s challenges, with a strong focus on practical governance and protecting Washingtonians from potential national policy changes.
One key area of focus for Ferguson’s administration will be preparing to challenge federal policies, particularly those backed by the Trump administration. Ferguson and incoming Attorney General Nick Brown are already preparing their legal teams to safeguard Washington’s interests and ensure state laws are upheld against potentially harmful federal directives.
Preparing for a Major Staff Transition
Governor Jay Inslee’s office has been preparing for the transition for over a year, anticipating a 70% turnover in staff as the three-term governor’s tenure concludes. Inslee’s team has been archiving records, preparing staff buyout packages, and meeting with both gubernatorial candidates to ensure a smooth transition of power.
Ferguson’s transition team will also play a key role in vetting individuals for positions in the new administration’s cabinet, ensuring that the incoming government is ready to move forward as soon as Ferguson takes office.
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