As the Washington State Legislature began its 105-day session on Monday, Jan. 13, Gloria Mendoza, R-Grandview, raised her right hand and took the oath of office, becoming the new state representative serving the 14th Legislative District for Position #1.
“It is one of the greatest honors of my life to be chosen by the citizens of the Fourteenth District to serve as their state representative. I’m dedicated to working for a better future for our families and our children,” said Mendoza.
“I’m going to Olympia as someone who deeply cares about our communities to address issues that matter to all of us, such as reducing the high cost of living, working for tax relief, supporting economic development and jobs, securing a quality education for our children, and protecting individual and constitutional rights,” she added.
A Mexican immigrant and former farmworker, Mendoza grew up in Grandview and has lived in Yakima County for more than 45 years. She is active in her local community, having served as Grandview’s mayor and on the Grandview City Council for a total of eight years. She has also owned and operated various small businesses for 25 years, including founding and serving as CEO of a private vocational and technical school, and operating a business that provides services to children and families.
Also on Monday, it was announced by legislative Republican leaders that Mendoza has been selected to deliver the state Republican perspective directly following Gov. Bob Ferguson’s inaugural address during the noon hour, Wednesday, Jan. 15. Mendoza’s address will be aired on TVW’s cable channel and its website, TVW.org.
“I am told it is rare that a newly sworn-in freshman member of the Legislature is chosen for this honor. I am humbled and very appreciative of this unique opportunity to deliver the Republican perspective to the people of Washington,” said Mendoza. “It will be a message of hope outlining how we plan to work together to fix Washington and make our state a better place to live, work and raise a family.”
Mendoza was recently appointed as assistant ranking member of the House Transportation Committee. She will also serve on the House Environment and Energy Committee and the House Postsecondary Education and Workforce Committee.
“These committees provide a real opportunity to make immediate impacts on policies to benefit our district,” Mendoza noted.
“As a new lawmaker, I plan to listen to the needs of our entire district, and use my experience in local government, as a small business owner, in family services, and as a former farmworker to advocate for meaningful solutions for my neighbors and our communities,” said Mendoza.
The 2025 legislative session is scheduled to continue through April 27.
PHOTO: Washington State Supreme Court Chief Justice Steven González (back toward camera) administers the oath of office to legislators in the state House of Representatives, including new 14th District Rep. Gloria Mendoza, R-Grandview (right front row).
# # #