YAKIMA — Members of the state Senate Republican Caucus have tapped 9th District Senator Mark Schoesler, R-Ritzville, as their leader for the 2019 legislative session.

The selection of Schoesler is a repeat of years past, as the longtime lawmaker was elected Senate majority leader in 2015 and 2017. Also elected into leadership positions by the caucus are: 2nd District Sen. Randi Becker, R-Eatonville, as caucus chair, 7th District Sen. Shelly Short, R-Addy, as floor leader, 18th District Sen. Ann Rivers, R-La Center, as whip, 8th District Sen. Sharon Brown, R-Kennewick, as deputy leader, 13th District Sen. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, as caucus vice-chair, 12th District Sen. Brad Hawkins, R-East Wenatchee, as deputy floor leader, and 10th District Sen. Barbara Bailey, R-Oak Harbor, as deputy whip.

“When I look at our new leadership team I see senators who have led the way on our established priorities – like providing more support for our public schools, and for mental health care, and promoting sensible tax policies that make Washington a good place to do business,” Schoesler said. “And I also see senators who are stepping forward to address issues like affordable housing and homelessness, where a dose of new thinking is needed.”

Senate Republicans will have their work cut out for them in getting their agenda through, however, as the state Senate is controlled by Democrats.

“Even though our side is a year removed from having the majority in the Senate, I think people will see that we’re still leading on the issues that matter the most in our state, especially to the hard-working families and employers who keep our economy going,” Schoesler predicted.

Richard Byrd can be reached via email at rbyrd@columbiabasinherald.com.