As the 2010 special session was winding down in the early morning hours of April 13th, the good lady from the 24th District rose for a point of personal privilege. People gathered in the House wings to listen, having been informed that there would be a “special announcement” on the floor.
Still, her announcement took many by surprise. After 18 years in the House, including 12 as Majority Leader, Rep. Lynn Kessler is retiring. Many were shocked to find out that our House Majority Leader is approaching 70 years of age, which she admitted to in her farewell speech. Most of us would have never guessed it.
You could hear the emotion in her voice as she reflected on her Legislative career and recalled special memories from those 18 years. On both sides of the aisle, eyes welled up with tears. And as both Democrats and Republicans rose to speak in honor of her, it was clear that Rep. Kessler has always been viewed as a true stateswoman.
All of us in the House Democratic Caucus are going to miss the example of class and dignity that she set. Her final floor speech will be available soon on her website.
Thank you, Rep. Kessler, for 18 distinguished years of service for the people of Washington.
