State Representative Pos. 2 District 31 in Washington State House District 31, Washington

2026 Primary Election

• John Bielka — Public Works Director in WA

  John Bielka, a Democratic candidate for Washington State Representative District 31, Position 2, is a civil engineer and Public Works Director. He brings extensive experience from public works, including roles as Capital Project Manager for the City of Orting, and has owned an excavation company. Bielka highlights his practical, results-driven approach to infrastructure management, financial discipline, and problem-solving. He successfully addressed a long-standing flooding issue in Algona for a fraction of the projected cost and secured significant grants for local governments. Motivated to bring this expertise to Olympia, Bielka aims to tackle critical issues like infrastructure and affordability in the 31st District. He is running as a non-incumbent against Josh Penner.

• Joshua Penner — Incumbent State Representative, District 31, Position 2 in Orting, WA

  Joshua "Josh" Penner is the incumbent Republican State Representative for Washington's 31st District, having assumed office in January 2025. He is a candidate for re-election in the 2026 Primary. A lifelong resident of the district, Penner, born in Bonney Lake, is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served in Iraq. His background includes executive leadership, serving as Mayor of Orting since 2018, and being a small business owner and CEO. Penner's platform centers on improving public safety, strengthening schools, protecting children, restoring trust in state government, and ensuring responsible use of taxpayer dollars. He advocates for policies supporting families, local communities, and greater accountability in Olympia.