Michelle L. Downey Caldier Valdez is an American dentist, professor, business owner, and Republican politician who represented Washington's 26th Legislative District in the state House of Representatives from 2015 until announcing she would not seek reelection. The district spans cities including Bremerton, Gig Harbor, and Port Orchard. She was elected in 2014 by defeating incumbent Democrat Larry Seaquist with 50.61% of the vote, marking the first Republican win in that seat since 2004 and contributing to Republican House pickups that year. Notable positions include service on the Healthcare & Wellness, Innovation, Community & Economic Development & Veterans, and Regulated Substances & Gaming committees during the 2024 session.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Washington, followed by a Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Washington School of Dentistry.
• Political Experience: Practiced dentistry and taught as a professor before entering politics; served multiple terms in the Washington House starting in 2015, focusing on healthcare, economic development, and veterans' issues.