Jennifer Sefzik to challenge Rep. Shewmake

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A small business owner and high school debate coach announced that she is running for state representative Sharon Shewmake’s seat in the Washington State House of Representatives.

In a January 10 press release, Jennifer Sefzik said that she has decided to run against first-term Democrat Sharon Shewmake “after being frustrated by the disconnect between Shewmake and the voters of Whatcom County.”

“I love Whatcom County,” said Sefzik. “But I don’t love the direction our state is headed because of the influence of extremist Seattle politicians.”

Shewmake represents Legislative District 42–Position 2 in the Washington State House of Representatives. She assumed office in January 2019 and her current term ends in January 2021.

Sefzik said that she will oppose tax increases, support local transportation projects and work to ensure that $30 car tabs become a reality. The $30 car-tab initiative, Initiative 976, was approved by state voters in November but is currently tied up in court.

“We don’t need a legislator who represents Seattle,” said Sefzik. “If elected, I’ll represent Whatcom County residents. I will oppose tax increases that affect everyone’s bottom line and prosperity. I will fight against diverting transportation dollars from our local roads and bridges to fund Seattle mass transit. And I will stand solidly with the will of the voters who demanded $30 car tabs.”

According to Sefzik’s release, she has a business degree in marketing from Texas A&M University, and worked in sales and marketing for 20 years before retiring to direct and coach high school speech and debate clubs. She said she has organized and led debate clubs locally and across the state, and has coached hundreds of students in local, state and national competitions.

“It is so inspiring to teach young adults to research, think logically and communicate well,” said Sefzik. “It gives them unique skills in today’s job market. It’s been one of the great joys of my life to watch students’ lives be transformed through this activity.”

Sefzik and her husband Roger have been married for 34 years and have three grown children. According to her release, Sefzik is endorsed by state representative Luanne Van Werven.

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