OLYMPIA… Today members of the Senate Republican Caucus met and elected Sen. Jim Honeyford of Sunnyside as deputy floor leader. This is the fifth time Honeyford has been elected to the caucus leadership team.

As deputy floor leader, Honeyford will assist the floor leader in his duties, assist the floor leader and whip in coordinating procedural votes with members, and perform other general leadership responsibilities. He will also participate in leadership discussions and decisions and meet regularly with other members of the caucus leadership on key legislative issues.

“I am honored that my colleagues asked me today to serve again as a member of leadership,” Honeyford said. “The people of our state are entering a very challenging time. The state is facing a 5.1 billion dollar budget shortfall, and there are tough decisions to be made. I look forward to working with my colleagues to address these issues and help the people of our state get back on their feet.” 

Honeyford was elected to the state House of Representatives in 1994 and 1996, and to the Senate in 1998, 2002 and 2006. He has served in past leadership positions of both whip and caucus chair. Over the years he has served his community not only as a legislator, but also as a police officer, city council member, teacher, coach, librarian and farmer.

The 2009 legislative session begins Jan. 12.      

—30—