Washington Governor Appoints Lawyer With Donor Ties to State Supreme Court

Critics question if Theo Angelis was chosen for his political connections rather than judicial experience.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 10:43pm

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Washington Governor Bob Ferguson has appointed Theo Angelis, a lawyer with no prior judicial experience but deep ties to the state's Democratic political establishment, to the Washington Supreme Court. Angelis has donated to a network of prominent Democratic officials, raising concerns that he was selected to align with the governor's agenda rather than for his qualifications.

Why it matters

The appointment of Angelis, who has never served as a judge, to the state's highest court is drawing scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest and the influence of political donations on the judicial selection process. As multiple justices leave the court this year, Ferguson's appointments could shape the direction of the court for years to come.

The details

Angelis, a partner at the law firm Preston Gates & Ellis, previously worked with Governor Ferguson. Campaign finance records show Angelis has donated to a network of prominent Democratic officials in Washington, including the governor himself, the state attorney general, several state legislators, and others. Critics argue this raises questions about whether Angelis was chosen for his political connections rather than his qualifications, especially given his lack of judicial experience.

  • Angelis will replace Justice Barbara Madsen, who is retiring on April 3.
  • Angelis must run in the November general election to complete the remainder of Madsen's term, which expires in January 2029.

The players

Bob Ferguson

The governor of Washington who appointed Theo Angelis to the state Supreme Court.

Theo Angelis

A lawyer with no prior judicial experience who was appointed by Governor Ferguson to the Washington Supreme Court.

Barbara Madsen

The Washington Supreme Court justice who is retiring, allowing Angelis to be appointed to fill the vacancy.

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What they’re saying

“This court is deeply respected around this country and even abroad. I will work hard every day, I pledge, to be worthy of your example and the great reputation this court has.”

— Theo Angelis

“I wonder why bob chose a guy who's never served as a judge to be on the Supreme Court? I'm sure it had nothing to do with the unconstitutional income tax or the campaign donations given to Bob.”

— DOGE WA (Twitter)

What’s next

Angelis must run in the November general election to complete the remainder of Madsen's term, which expires in January 2029.

The takeaway

The appointment of Theo Angelis, a lawyer with no judicial experience but deep ties to the state's Democratic political establishment, raises concerns about the influence of political donations and connections in the judicial selection process. As the composition of Washington's Supreme Court shifts, the public will be watching to see if Angelis' rulings align with the governor's agenda.