State Representative Pos. 1 District 23 in Washington State House District 23, Washington

2026 Primary Election

• Daria Ilgen — Candidate for State Representative in WA

  Daria Ilgen is a Democratic candidate for Washington State Representative in the 23rd Legislative District, running in the 2026 primary. A Kitsap dad and second-generation immigrant, he aims to bring practical solutions and business leadership to address affordability and livability for Kitsap families. Ilgen previously built global partnerships for nearly two decades, then stepped back to raise his children and serve his community. He now serves on local nonprofit and economic development boards and holds Democratic Party leadership roles. His campaign emphasizes integrity and a practical, steady approach, rooted in his experiences as a family man and community problem-solver.

• Tarra Simmons — Incumbent State Representative in Olympia, WA

  Tarra Simmons, born 1977, is an American politician, lawyer, and civil rights activist. In 2020, she made history as the first formerly incarcerated person elected to the Washington State Legislature, representing District 23-Position 1. Her public service is informed by personal experiences with violence, poverty, and substance use disorder. After graduating magna cum laude from Seattle University School of Law, she successfully challenged a denial to take the bar exam due to her criminal history. Simmons assumed office in January 2021 and is seeking re-election in 2026. As Deputy Speaker Pro Tempore and Vice Chair of the Community Safety, Justice, & Reentry Committee, she champions criminal justice reform, police accountability, immigrant protections, and tax relief, sponsoring legislation on law enforcement practices and voter rights.