Doug Ericksen (0042)

Doug Ericksen was a Republican politician who represented Washington's 42nd Legislative District, including Whatcom County and his hometown of Bellingham, for 22 years in the state legislature—first as a State Representative from 1999 to 2011 and then as a State Senator from 2011 to 2021. Born on January 28, 1969, in Bellingham, he served as ranking member of the Senate Energy, Environment, and Telecommunications Committee, where he opposed environmental policies seen as harmful to jobs and energy costs. A gifted orator and advocate for free-market capitalism and individual liberties, Ericksen also held leadership roles such as Republican Floor Leader and Deputy Minority Leader in the House, and Minority Whip in the Senate. He passed away on December 17, 2021, at age 52.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: BA in Government from Cornell University ; MA in Political Science/Environmental Policy from Western Washington University .
• Early Career: Intern for State Senator Ann Anderson; Policy Analyst for Senate Republican Caucus ; Legislative Affairs Coordinator, Department of Fish and Wildlife ; Campaign Manager for Ann Anderson's Lieutenant Governor bid .
• Political Experience:
  • Washington State House of Representatives, District 42 : Served in leadership as Republican Floor Leader, Deputy Minority Leader, and Minority Floor Leader.
  • Washington State Senate, District 42 : Ranking Republican on Energy, Environment, and Telecommunications Committee; former Chair of the committee; Minority Whip ; served on committees including Financial Institutions and Insurance, Economic Development, Trade and Innovation, and Transportation.