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Washington Governor

The chief executive of the state

Full office description

  • The governor ensures efficient administration of the state and the enforcement of laws.
  • The governor also serves as commander-in-chief of the state's military and can mobilize forces to maintain order.
  • The governor appoints heads of departments, agencies, and institutions. The governor is also responsible for presenting the state budget.
  • The governor advocates for their legislative agenda and can veto bills passed by the legislature, which a supermajority vote by legislators can override.
  • The governor has the authority to grant reprieves, commutations, and pardons.
  • Requirements to be a governor include being a US citizen, a qualified voter in Washington, at least 18 years old, and a resident of Washington.
  • They are paid an annual salary of $204,205.

How this impacts you

  • Public SafetyIn 2024, the governor issued an executive order to reduce criminal repeat offenders. This order addresses housing, employment, health care, substance use treatment, and mental health services for released individuals.

  • EnvironmentIn 2024, the governor of Washington approved a budget of $25 million for the development of 12 modular nuclear reactors. He also signed the Climate Commitment Act, a policy that works to cap and reduce pollution while creating revenue for climate investments.

Candidates (2)

A profile picture of Bob Ferguson.

Bob Ferguson

(D)

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A profile picture of Dave Reichert.

Dave Reichert

(R)

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