Sharon Shewmake is a Democratic state senator representing Washington's 42nd Legislative District, which includes Whatcom County. She was sworn into office on December 9, 2022, becoming the first Democrat to represent the district in two decades. Born on May 19, 1980, she is a professor of environmental economics, urban economics, and energy policy at Western Washington University in Bellingham, a children's book author, spouse, and mother of two young boys. Her priorities include housing and energy affordability, job creation, infrastructure development, and safe communities.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Bachelor's degrees in Environmental Science and Policy and Economics from Duke University; Ph.D. in Agricultural and Resource Economics from the University of California, Davis. Previously taught environmental economics and labor economics at Vanderbilt University Law School.
• Political Experience: Serves as Chair of the Senate Environment, Energy & Technology Committee; Vice Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee; and member of the Senate Housing Committee, Agriculture, Water, Natural Resources & Parks Committee, and Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee. She holds town halls to discuss legislative issues affecting local communities.