Mark Schoesler
Hometown: Ritzville
Party: Republican
District: Legislative District 9, which covers southern Spokane County and much of southeastern Washington, including Pullman, Clarkston, Othello, Ritzville and West Pasco.
Background: Mark Schoesler joins Democrat Lisa Brown and Republican Jim West as recent Senate Majority Leaders from a district that includes Spokane County. He won the top spot in late 2014 after serving several sessions as Republican floor leader when the GOP was the minority caucus. A blunt-speaking social and fiscal conservative, Schoesler gained some attention in January when he “barked” (the verb he later used to describe his actions) at a reporter at a news conference.
Last election: Ran unopposed last year.
Age: 60
Terms: In his fourth term in the Senate. Previously served six terms in the state House.
Committee assignments: Rules, Ways & Means.
Education: Ritzville High School; associate’s degree, Spokane Community College.
Work experience: Wheat farmer active in numerous agriculture groups.
Family: Married. Has two children.
Office phone: (360) 786-7620
Email: mark.schoesler@leg.wa.gov
