The Seattle Times says, "In an era when infrastructure projects are too-often delayed and over budget, Zahn can bring a rare skill set and a penchant for problem-solving to the Legislature. Voters from the 41st Legislative District, including Mercer Island, south Bellevue, Newcastle and Sammamish, should send her back to Olympia."
Let's Retain Representative Janice Zahn
for State Legislature 41st LD - Democrat
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 28, 2025
State Representative Janice Zahn Announces Campaign to Retain 41st LD Seat
As Former Bellevue City Councilmember and Chief Engineer at the Port of Seattle, Zahn brings deep experience in infrastructure, regional collaboration, and equity to Olympia
BELLEVUE, WA — Today, State Representative Janice Zahn announced her campaign to retain the 41st Legislative District State House seat that she was appointed to earlier this year, following a milestone first session defined by community-centered policymaking and meaningful legislative accomplishments.
“Serving the 41st District in Olympia has been a great honor,” said Zahn. “Every decision I’ve made this session has been rooted in the voices of our neighbors—from advocating for safer transportation and stronger communities, to investing in education, environmental sustainability, and equitable health care. I’m excited to continue this work, bringing the stories and values of our neighbors across the district to the state legislature.”
Appointed earlier this year, Zahn hit the ground running with a bold and thoughtful approach to policymaking. Her first bill, House Bill 1640, was signed into law by the Governor, strengthening accountability and oversight for out-of-state health care providers. She then passed three more bills, one on better data collection to understand homelessness and two on improving project delivery in capital construction. She also strongly supported legislation for universal health care, investments in public education, reforming Washington’s recycling system, and most importantly reaffirming our people to people relationship, economic and cultural ties with Canada.
Over the course of her first session, Zahn held more than 200 community and legislative meetings, including town halls, “Chats with Janice,” and events with parents, educators, and students. These conversations made clear the urgent need for better funding and support in our schools. That’s why Zahn led on critical legislation to address classroom needs and special education gaps. She helped pass SB 5192, which updates the state’s formula to better fund essential classroom materials like textbooks, lab supplies, and even cleaning products. She also supported SB 5263, which increases state funding for special education and helps ensure students with disabilities get the resources they deserve. Her approach reflects the values of the district: equitable access to high-quality education and leadership that listens.
As a former Bellevue City Councilmember and Chief Engineer at the Port of Seattle overseeing the Port’s Major Public Works projects, Zahn also brings important expertise to the State House. “Janice Zahn brings a wealth of experience in transportation and infrastructure to the Washington State House of Representatives,” said State Representative and Transportation Chair Jake Fey. “Her commitment to sustainable and equitable transportation solutions and investments in the safety of our infrastructure will greatly benefit communities across our State.”
Local leaders have also voiced strong support for Zahn’s re-election.
“Janice Zahn's dedication to public service and her collaborative approach make her an invaluable asset to our region,” said Issaquah Mayor Mary Lou Pauly. “Her understanding of local government challenges and her proactive problem-solving skills are exactly what we need in the State House. I fully support her continued service.”
“Janice Zahn has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to education and community engagement,” added Bellevue School Board Member Jane Aras. “Her focus on equity and support for our schools have made a significant impact in Bellevue. I am proud to endorse her as she continues to advocate for our students and families at the state level.”
Zahn has secured a broad coalition of supporters including Governor Bob Ferguson, Insurance Commissioner Patty Kuderer, Lands Commissioner Dave Upthegrove, 41st LD Senator Lisa Wellman and Representative My-Linh Thai, County Councilmember Claudia Balducci, Bellevue Mayor Lynne Robinson, Issaquah Mayor Mary Lou Pauly, Sammamish Mayor Karen Howe, Mercer Island Deputy Mayor David Rosenbaum, and Newcastle Councilmembers Ariana Sherlock, Paul Charboneau and Sun Burford.
Zahn is a civil engineer, community advocate, and proven public sector leader with a deep commitment to inclusive policymaking and sustainable infrastructure. Before her appointment to the Washington State House of Representatives, she served over seven years on the Bellevue City Council, where she championed housing affordability, environmental stewardship, and multimodal transportation. Zahn also spent over two decades in leadership roles at the Port of Seattle, where she advanced equity in contracting, improved airport infrastructure, and promoted regional economic development. A longtime resident of Bellevue, she brings a collaborative, data-driven approach to policymaking and is dedicated to building a more just and resilient Washington for all.
Zahn’s campaign will focus on continuing to champion policy that reflects the shared values of the 41st District: building resilient infrastructure, expanding access to health care, protecting our environment, and ensuring every student has the resources to succeed. Immigrating to the United States at the age of 10, Zahn earned a Masters Degree in Engineering and a Masters Degree in Public Administration. She lives in Bellevue with her husband and is the mother of two former Bellevue Schools students.