Rep. Chris Gildon will begin his first term in the state Senate as the Deputy Floor Leader for the Republican caucus, as his peers in the Senate unanimously elected him to fill this important role.

As Deputy Floor Leader, Gildon’s duties will include organizing and managing debate in the Senate Chamber, assisting caucus leadership in the development of legislative strategy and policy, and representing Republicans in negotiations with majority party floor leaders.

“It is truly an honor to be selected Deputy Floor Leader by my peers, especially as a new member,” said Gildon, R-Puyallup.

Gildon, who is currently completing his term in the House of Representatives, was recently elected to the Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Hans Zeiger.

Gildon was also appointed to several committees that cover a wide variety of topics, including two of the same committees Zeiger served on. The four committees Gildon will cover include:

• Human Services, Reentry and Rehabilitation, as the Ranking Republican.
• Housing and Local Government, as the Assistant Ranking Republican.
• Ways and Means
• Rules

Serving on both the Ways and Means Committee as well as the Rules Committee is rare for a new legislator. However, Gildon said he is up to the task and plans to continue Zeiger’s legacy of being a calm voice of reason in the Legislature.

“I look forward to advocating for sensible, budget-sensitive, and fair policy that is in the best interest of all those I serve,” said Gildon.

The 2021 legislative session is scheduled to begin Jan. 11 and last 105 days.