Claudia Kauffman

Claudia Kauffman is an incumbent Washington State Senator for District 47, a Nez Perce tribal member, and the first Native American woman elected to the state's upper chamber. She began her current term in 2023, having previously served from 2007-2011. A Democratic Party member, she chairs the Senate Business, Trade & Economic Development Committee, is vice chair of the State Government, Tribal Affairs & Elections Committee, and serves as the Senate Democratic Caucus’s Leadership Liaison to Tribal Nations. Kauffman advocates for consumer protections, Tribal sovereignty, and accessible voting, having introduced legislation on mortgage fraud, virtual currency kiosks, and establishing a permanent Office of Indian Affairs. She is running for re-election in 2026 to prioritize affordability, community safety, affordable housing, and continued investment in South King County families.