State Rep. Mike Steele seeks another term in 12th Legislative District

CHELAN — State Rep. Mike Steele announced Wednesday, May 6 that he will seek re-election to the Washington House of Representatives, launching a campaign focused on bipartisan collaboration, infrastructure investment and affordability issues facing families across North Central Washington.

Steele, a Republican representing the 12th Legislative District, was first elected in 2016 and has served in Olympia since 2017.

In announcing his campaign, Steele pointed to his work on capital budget negotiations and efforts to secure funding for local infrastructure, schools, housing, public safety and economic development projects throughout the region.

“Public service is about bringing people together to solve problems and strengthen our communities,” Steele said. “Over the years, I’ve worked with Democrats and Republicans alike to deliver real investments and real results for the people of our district.”

Steele currently serves as the ranking minority member on the House Capital Budget Committee, where he has played a lead role in bipartisan budget negotiations tied to construction and infrastructure funding statewide.

A lifelong Chelan Valley resident, Steele previously served on the Chelan City Council and as executive director of the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce before his election to the Legislature. Earlier in his career, he worked on the White House Political Affairs Team in Washington, D.C.

According to the campaign announcement, Steele plans to continue focusing on economic development, education, career and technical training, workforce issues and housing affordability.

“I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together, and I’m excited to continue fighting for affordable communities, strong schools, economic opportunity, and a brighter future for Washington families,” Steele said.

The 12th Legislative District includes Chelan County and portions of King and Snohomish counties. Steele’s re-election campaign comes as candidate filing season begins to take shape ahead of the 2026 election cycle.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media