Veteran Washington Budget Chair Won't Seek Reelection

Timm Ormsby, a 20-year legislative veteran, steps down from powerful budget role.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 1:43am

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A dimly lit, cinematic interior scene of an empty legislative chamber, with warm sunlight streaming through the windows and deep shadows casting a contemplative mood, conceptually representing the transition of power in the state's budget-writing process.The departure of a long-serving budget chair signals a shift in Washington state's political landscape.Spokane Today

Spokane state Rep. Timm Ormsby, who has served as the lead budget writer for Washington House Democrats for over two decades, has announced he will not seek reelection this year.

Why it matters

Ormsby's departure from the state legislature will create a power vacuum in the budget-writing process, as he has been a central figure in shaping Washington's fiscal priorities for many years.

The details

Ormsby, a Democrat, has chaired the powerful House Appropriations Committee since 2013, overseeing the state's multi-billion dollar budget. His decision not to run again opens up a key leadership position in the legislature.

  • Ormsby has served in the Washington Legislature for more than 20 years.
  • He has chaired the House Appropriations Committee since 2013.

The players

Timm Ormsby

A Democratic state representative from Spokane who has served in the Washington Legislature for over 20 years, including as the chair of the powerful House Appropriations Committee since 2013.

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What’s next

The Washington House Democrats will need to select a new chair of the Appropriations Committee, a position that will be crucial in shaping the state's budget priorities going forward.

The takeaway

Ormsby's retirement marks the end of an era in Washington state politics, as the legislature will need to find new leadership to guide the state's complex budgeting process.