Following a vote by their peers Monday afternoon, 35th District Reps. Dan Griffey and Drew MacEwen were elected to leadership roles for the Washington House Republican Caucus.

Griffey will serve as the caucus’ Whip, a role in which he will count votes and help maintain decorum during floor action and caucus meetings. Griffey previously held an Assistant Whip position.

“I am humbled by the vote of confidence from my fellow caucus members to serve as their Whip for the upcoming legislative session” said Griffey, R-Allyn. “Serving as Whip is similar to being a fire lieutenant. In both roles, it’s imperative you support and motivate your team in order to advance common goals. I am confident our new leadership will do just that as we prepare for the 2019 session.”

MacEwen, R-Union, who was first elected assistant floor leader in March, was re-elected to the post.

As assistant floor leader, MacEwen will help manage legislation and debate on the House floor, as well as provide input in House Republican leadership meetings. He will also represent the caucus in negotiations with majority party floor leaders.

“I am honored by the trust my colleagues have placed in me to once again serve our caucus in a leadership role,” said MacEwen. “We have a strong leadership team and a dedicated caucus of individuals eager to continue fighting for lower taxes, better educational outcomes, and budgets that are both balanced and sustainable. We are committed to serving all Washingtonians, and you will see that reflected through our policy proposals and our actions when the 2019 session gets underway in just seven short weeks.”

The 2019 legislative session will begin Monday, Jan. 14.