State Senator Sharon Shewmake has announced she will not seek re-election in 2026, ending her service after three terms as a member of Washington’s legislature.

The 45-year-old Democrat, who represents the 42nd District — a region covering much of Whatcom County — said her decision stems from a desire to prioritise time with her two sons instead of pursuing another term in Olympia.

First elected to the Washington House of Representatives in 2018, Shewmake won two terms before defeating the appointed incumbent in a narrow 2022 race to join the State Senate.

Her victory marked the first time in two decades that a Democrat held the 42nd District seat — a testament to shifting local political dynamics.

During her tenure she has chaired the Senate’s Environment, Energy & Technology Committee and served on key panels including Transportation, Housing, Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Her legislative work emphasized housing affordability, environmental regulation, clean-energy policy, and rural and community development.

Shewmake said that she will continue fulfilling her duties through the end of her term in January 2027. In remarks accompanying her announcement she noted that while her sons’ high-school graduations may seem far off, she does not want to miss “the best parts” of their lives because of demanding legislative work.

Already potential contenders are emerging.

State Representative Alicia Rule, who currently serves alongside Shewmake in the 42nd District delegation, indicated she is “seriously considering a run” for the soon-to-open Senate seat.

On the Republican side, county-level figures such as Council member Ben Elenbaas have also signalled interest in a possible challenge — though none have formally filed as of yet.

Shewmake’s departure underscores ongoing political shifts in Whatcom County and adds momentum to a potentially competitive 2026 Senate race.

For now, the district and the legislature await the formal filing period — and the next chapter in this evolving political landscape.