T'wina T. Nobles is a Democratic member of the Washington State Senate representing District 28, which includes Fircrest, University Place, Lakewood, Steilacoom, DuPont, Elk Plain, Camp Murray, and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Elected in 2020 after defeating incumbent Republican Steve O'Ban, she assumed office in January 2021 as the first Black state senator in over a decade and currently serves as Democratic Majority Whip. A mother of four, community leader, and non-profit executive, Nobles overcame personal challenges including abuse, homelessness, and foster care before becoming an educator and advocate for equity, inclusion, and education access. Notable achievements include passing SB 5321 to expand College Bound Scholarships for low-income students, SB 5293 for mental health sentencing alternatives, and supporting bills like HB 1589 for clean energy and SB 6346 for an income tax on high earners. She serves as chair of the Higher Education & Workforce Development Committee, vice chair of the Early Learning & K-12 Education Committee, and sits on the Transportation Committee.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Attended Tacoma Community College, then earned a bachelor's degree and Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Puget Sound; taught at Stadium High School and Lincoln High School in Tacoma.
• Political Experience: University Place School Board member since 2016; president and CEO of Tacoma Urban League and inaugural CEO of Black Future Co-op Fund; founder of Ladies First program for young women; elected to Washington State Senate in 2020.