Skyler Rude for State Representative

10/17/2026

https://www.nbcrightnow.com/elections/watch-washington-16th-legislative-district-debate-sarley-versus-rude-klicker-versus-palmer/video_d1d225b9-aaf8-532d-b77b-93dde213f36a.html

NonStop Local held a state house debate featuring Republican Skyler Rude versus Democrat Derek Sarley & Republican Mark Klicker versus Democrat Kyle Palmer each vying for a seat in Washington's

10/07/2026

I’m asking for your help with yard sign locations! My campaign is now about keeping the majority from growing even larger.

As you probably know, I have accepted a new job in state government which does not allow me to serve in the Legislature in the next term (read my full press release at electskylerrude.com).

If I’m elected, a Republican will be appointed to take my place and face voters in a special election next year. If my opponent wins, the Democratic majority takes the seat and grows even larger.

If you would like to help with this effort, just send your address through messenger and we will deliver!

09/30/2026

Big news today.  Below is my full announcement, including reasons why I am joining local Republicans in still asking for your vote.

Rep. Skyler Rude Announces Upcoming Departure from Washington State House

WALLA WALLA — State Representative Skyler Rude announced today that he will step down from the House on October 31 after accepting a position as Legislative Director for the Office of the Washington Secretary of State.

“When I filed for reelection in May, I intended to serve another full two-year term. However, this opportunity arose after ballots arrived for the August primary. The offer became final on September 22, with a start date of November 1.
“While it is not uncommon for legislators to leave for other professional opportunities, the timing is difficult given the proximity to the general election. The politically safer decision would be to announce after the election. However, I’ve concluded that doing so would compromise my values and erode trust at a time when building trust in civic institutions is more important than ever. Over my eight years in the Legislature, I’ve built a reputation for being honest, even when it creates challenges. I have a duty to inform the residents of the 16th Legislative District about this decision. I entered office committed to acting honestly and transparently, and I’m not going to change that commitment now as I complete my elected service.

“The choice on the ballot at this point is straightforward. Voters who want a Republican appointed to replace me should vote for me. If I win, a Republican will be selected to fill the vacancy through the process outlined in the state constitution and statutes. I am committed to assisting in that process to ensure a smooth transition.

“That said, I am still encouraging a vote for me in November, and here’s why: House Republicans are fighting hard to make Washington a more affordable, safer place to live, even while badly outnumbered, 39–59. An imbalance that large diminishes the voices of moderate Democrats and Republicans alike. It gives the most extreme voices outsized influence and reduces the need to build consensus on public policy.

“Serving our district for eight years has been the honor of my life. I’ve valued the relationships I’ve built with colleagues across party lines, the times we’ve found common ground, and the chance to work on policies that make a difference in people’s everyday lives. I will miss that work and the people I’ve had the privilege to serve alongside.

“Leaving is bittersweet, but I’m grateful that my next role brings together two things I care deeply about: Washington’s history and the integrity of our elections. The Secretary of State’s office safeguards our state’s historical records and helps administer the elections on which our democracy depends. I look forward to supporting that work while continuing to serve the people of Washington.”

09/26/2026

Retired public employees face unique challenges with our pension system. Many of our state’s most senior retirees, who entered the pension system prior to 1978, are part of a retirement plan that does not automatically include cost-of-living adjustments. The Legislature has made numerous “one time” adjustments to account for cost-of-living increases, but but those adjustments have been completely inadequate to keep up with actual increase increases in cost-of-living. Many retirees have lost as much as 30% of their buying power since retirement. This has been an important issue for me since I was first elected eight years ago, and one the Legislature needs to do better to address.

08/25/2026

Happy to share that I have received the endorsement of Walla Walla Professional Firefighters. 

Firefighters put their lives on the line in a variety of ways to protect our communities. Not only do they face the immediate threat of fire, but significantly increased risk of occupational diseases, like heart attack, stroke, cancer and PTSD.

I am honored by their support as we work to make the profession safer.

08/20/2026

I am pleased to announce this endorsement! The Washington State School Retirees’ Association represents retired educators in communities across our state.

Many of their members who entered the retirement system before 1977 have seen the purchasing power of their pensions significantly eroded over time. These retirees are in a pension plan that is no longer offered and does not include an automatic cost-of-living adjustment.

For the past eight years, I have valued WSSRA’s advocacy and partnership and supported efforts to protect the retirement security of the educators who spent their careers serving Washington’s students. Many of these retirees were our own teachers growing up, and I’m proud to continue standing with them.

Thank you, WSSRA, for your endorsement and your continued advocacy!

08/20/2026

Unfortunately, I’m not going to be able to attend this Saturday’s parade in the Tricities. But these photos from two years ago popped up on my memories so I wanted to show them!

07/31/2026

Very honored to be endorsed by Public School Employees of Washington! They represent classified staff across our state, supporting teachers and students in learning. 

07/31/2026

No matter how you choose to vote, make sure your ballot is returned on time. Every vote matters. 🇺🇸

07/26/2026

UA Local 598 is proud to endorse Skyler Rude for Washington State House, LD 16.

Skyler has earned UA Local 598’s trust over multiple election cycles by staying accessible, honest, and willing to engage in productive conversations. He has maintained an open line of communication with our organization and taken the time to understand how legislation affects our members and the industry we serve.

UA Local 598 values leaders who listen, ask questions, and continue the conversation even when viewpoints differ. Skyler has consistently demonstrated that respect.

Learn more about UA Local 598’s endorsed candidates and view the full endorsement brochure here: https://bit.ly/3R7dgGV