Vancouver City Councilor Kim Harless announced Tuesday her candidacy for the Washington State House of Representatives, seeking the Position 1 seat in the 49th Legislative District. A Democrat, Harless was first elected to the Vancouver City Council in 2021 and has held a visible role in local civic initiatives, including environmental planning and public engagement efforts.

The 49th Legislative District covers much of central and west Vancouver and has historically leaned Democratic. The district is currently represented by two Democrats in the state House, and the upcoming election cycle may draw a competitive field as incumbents and challengers declare intentions ahead of filing week this spring.

Though Harless’s council term continues, city councilors in Washington may run for state office without resigning their municipal posts. If elected, Harless would need to balance legislative duties in Olympia with local responsibilities—a dynamic familiar to several Southwest Washington officials who have served at both levels.

Further details about her campaign platform were not included in the initial announcement, but Harless has previously emphasized environmental sustainability, affordable housing, and community health in her council role. Her bid introduces an early new factor into a 2026 election season already signaling multiple open races in the region.

Initial coverage of Harless’s announcement appeared in The Columbian.