Spokane Legislator Timm Ormsby Announces Retirement

Veteran Democratic budget writer will not run for re-election this fall.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:48pm

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Timm Ormsby, the longest-serving legislator from Spokane and the top Democratic budget writer in the Washington State House of Representatives, announced on Wednesday that he will not seek re-election this fall after over two decades in office.

Why it matters

Ormsby's retirement will mark the end of an era in Spokane politics and create an open seat that could shift the balance of power in the state legislature. As a veteran budget negotiator, his departure will also leave a significant void in the Democratic caucus.

The details

Ormsby, 66, has represented Spokane in the state legislature since 2003. He currently serves as the chair of the powerful House Appropriations Committee, where he has played a key role in crafting the state's biennial budget. In his announcement, Ormsby said he plans to step away from elected office to spend more time with his family.

  • Ormsby announced his retirement on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
  • Ormsby's current term expires at the end of 2026.

The players

Timm Ormsby

A 66-year-old Democratic legislator who has represented Spokane in the Washington State House of Representatives since 2003, serving as the chair of the powerful House Appropriations Committee.

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What they’re saying

“I don't plan on seeking re-election.”

— Timm Ormsby, State Representative

The takeaway

Ormsby's retirement will create a rare open seat in the Spokane legislative delegation, setting up a potentially competitive race that could impact the balance of power in Olympia. His departure also leaves a significant void in the Democratic caucus, as he has been a key budget negotiator and influential voice on fiscal policy issues.