Representative Dave Paul

Dave Paul is a Democratic member of the Washington House of Representatives representing the 10th Legislative District, which includes Island County and parts of Skagit and Snohomish counties.

David M. Paul was born in 1968 in Enumclaw, Washington. He is an experienced educator with over 25 years of teaching experience in higher education. Most recently, he served at Skagit Valley College for 16 years, where he held the position of Director of Community Relations and previously served as Vice President of Institutional Planning and Effectiveness. His work has focused on helping non-traditional students, veterans, first-generation students, DREAMers, and students with disabilities navigate education and employment opportunities.

Beyond his educational background, Paul has demonstrated strong community leadership. He managed a staff of 80 employees at Skagit Valley College, served 6,500 students, and oversaw budgets totaling $5.5 million. He also served on his local school board in Ohio and on the Island County Economic Development Council.

Education

Paul holds degrees from multiple institutions:

• Bachelor of Arts from Seattle University
• Master of Arts from Miami University
• Doctor of Philosophy from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Political Experience

Paul was first elected to the Washington House of Representatives in 2018, defeating Republican incumbent Dave Hayes. He assumed office on January 14, 2019, and continues to serve the 10th district.

In the legislature, Paul holds several significant positions. He serves as Chair of the Postsecondary Education & Workforce Committee and as a member of the Transportation, Technology, Economic Development & Veterans, and Joint Higher Education committees. His legislative priorities include improving mental health outcomes for young people in rural communities, removing abandoned boats from waterways, securing investments in Washington State Ferries, enhancing public safety through law enforcement training and support, and addressing the state's regressive tax system through sales tax and property tax relief initiatives.