Community Government
Rep. Hutchins not pursuing re-election in 26th District
Spencer Hutchins won’t seek a second term in the Washington State House of Representatives. The Gig Harbor Republican announced Tuesday evening, Feb. 6, that the position has affected his livelihood and ability to provide for his family.
“It is with regret that I share my decision not to seek a second term,” he said in a news release. “Over time, it has become clear that stepping away is the right thing to do for my family.
Spencer Hutchins spoke at the legislative sendoff in January. Photo by Ed Friedrich
“… I would love to stay longer. There is so much left to do and more I feel I can contribute. But the hard reality is this has taken a heavy toll on my livelihood and my ability to provide for my family. While we are a part-time legislature, the demands of this role are more realistically full-time and year-round.
Faith and family foremost
“The highest priorities in my life are my faith and family. As passionate as I am about our community — and about bringing goodwill, balance and bipartisanship to the polarized politics of today — my family’s well-being must come first.”
State representatives earn $57,876 per year, plus a per diem when they are in session.
Hutchins, 38, co-owns a real estate company with offices in Port Orchard, Gig Harbor and Silverdale. He and his wife, Christie, live in Gig Harbor with their three children — Rory, Sabrina, and Merrick.
Rep. Spencer Hutchins speaks with a constituent Wednesday during the legislative sendoff. Photo by Ed Friedrich
After graduating from Gig Harbor High School, Hutchins earned a bachelor’s degree from Gonzaga University and a law degree from the University of Washington.
Hutchins defeated Adison Richards 50.5% to 49.5% in the November 2022 general election for his seat representing the 26th Legislative District. The two-year term ends after this year.
Hutchins serves on the Health Care & Wellness, Transportation and Housing committees. He worked vigorously on the big issues facing the community and the state, including public safety and the drug crisis, increasing housing supply and affordability, improving access to quality health care, and fixing the state ferry system.
Grateful for chance to serve
“I am truly grateful that my friends and neighbors in the 26th District chose me to represent them in Olympia,” he said. “I will continue to work hard for them until my last day in office. … Representing my neighbors in the state House has been one of the most profound honors of my life.”
The 26th District might also be without Sen. Emily Randall, D-Bremerton, who is running for Derek Kilmer’s 6th District post in Congress. Kilmer, D-Gig Harbor, announced in November he will not seek election, also for family reasons.