Steve Hobbs is a Democratic politician and military officer serving as the 16th Secretary of State of Washington since 2021. Born Steven Ryuma Hobbs on February 12, 1970, he is the first Asian American and first person of color in the role, previously representing Washington's 44th Legislative District in the State Senate from 2007 to 2021. A Lieutenant Colonel in the Washington Army National Guard with over four decades of service, including tours in Kosovo and Iraq, Hobbs grew up in Snohomish County, lives there with his wife Pam and three sons , and has earned awards like the Henry M. Jackson Award for his bipartisan work.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Bachelor's degree in political science and Master's degree in public administration from the University of Washington; Associate's degree from Everett Community College.
• Political Experience:
  • Appointed Secretary of State by Governor Jay Inslee in 2021, won a 2022 special election, and secured a full term in 2024 with 59% of the vote—the largest margin for a statewide Democrat that year.
  • State Senator for District 44 , chairing the Transportation Committee; led a bipartisan $16 billion transportation package in 2015, including Sound Transit light rail expansion.
  • As Secretary of State, built bipartisan election security measures, launched the Information Security Grant Program for counties, established voter education and anti-misinformation programs, and served as Western Region Vice President of the National Association of Secretaries of State in 2023.
  • Notable for pro-business stance, occasionally clashing with Democrats on issues like climate policies; prior roles include facilities manager at University of Washington and U.S. Army service.