OLYMPIA – Rep. Melanie Morgan (D-Parkland) was elected by her colleagues today to serve as deputy majority floor leader.
A first-term legislator who belongs to the most diverse cohort of incoming freshmen in state history, Rep. Morgan will serve alongside Majority Floor Leader Monica Stonier (D-Vancouver) in coordinating House floor debate and passage of bills. The position involves working with colleagues across the aisle in the House Republican Caucus in order to ensure bipartisan cooperation and fairness in the floor debate process.
“It’s an honor to be elected to this position, and I thank my colleagues for their trust and support,” Rep. Morgan said. “Deputy floor leader is not just a title; it’s a place on the leadership team and a voice in the legislative process. Today’s election of a freshman to this role is an important shift signifying our caucus’ commitment to including members with a wide array of seniority and experience.”
In addition to her new caucus leadership role, Rep. Morgan also serves on the Capital Budget Committee, the Commerce & Gaming Committee, and is vice chair of the Housing, Community Development & Veterans Committee. She also chairs the Black Members Caucus and serves on the governor’s Office of Equity Task Force.
“I came to the legislature ready to continue my track record of applying an equity lens to my work. As deputy majority floor leader, I will use that lens to help bring people together and elevate all voices,” Rep. Morgan said.
Rep. Morgan replaces fellow Pierce County lawmaker Rep. Christine Kilduff (D-University Place), who was recently chosen to chair the House Civil Rights & Judiciary Committee.
Today’s caucus election took place during Committee Assembly Days, when House and Senate committees meet in Olympia outside of the legislative session to discuss issues and priorities likely to be considered when the Legislature convenes in January.