State Senator Emily Randall has won the race for Washington’s 6th Congressional District, securing the seat previously held by Democratic Rep. Derek Kilmer, who retired after serving for 11 years. Randall, a Democrat from Bremerton, led the race with 57.3% of the vote, defeating Republican State Senator Drew MacEwen, who received 43%.
Randall’s victory in the district, which covers parts of Tacoma and the Olympic and Kitsap Peninsulas, marks a continuation of Democratic control of the seat. The district has been held by Democrats since 1965. During her campaign, Randall focused on expanding healthcare access, protecting abortion rights, making college and career education more affordable, and increasing taxes on big businesses to fund these initiatives.
Randall, who first entered the legislature in 2018, gained significant support from key endorsements, including U.S. Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, Gov. Jay Inslee, and the Seattle Times. Her opponent, Drew MacEwen, who has served in the state senate since 2013, prioritized issues such as border security, immigration reform, and strengthening the U.S. Navy.
The district’s political landscape became more competitive following Rep. Kilmer’s retirement, and although the race was close during the primary, Randall outpaced MacEwen in fundraising, raising $1.7 million compared to his $242,000.
In his concession speech, MacEwen congratulated Randall and wished her success in Congress. As Randall prepares to take office, she will become the new voice for Washington’s 6th Congressional District, advocating for policies aimed at improving healthcare, education, and economic opportunity for residents.
