Attorney Jamila Taylor Announces Run for State House of Representatives in Washington

FEDERAL WAY — Jamila Taylor, an attorney who advocates for crime victims with an extensive record of volunteer service in the Puget Sound, has announced her campaign for the State House. A Democrat, Taylor will run for the position currently held by outgoing 30th District State Representative Mike Pellicciotti, who is running for State Treasurer.

As a former Statewide Advocacy Counsel for the Northwest Justice Project, Taylor managed a network of legal aid attorneys assisting domestic violence survivors and other crime victims. Taylor has also worked locally and regionally on youth intervention programs.

“I am running because we need new voices and experienced leaders committed to addressing our shared concerns about homelessness and affordable housing, public safety, health care, and equity,” said Taylor in a statement. “Throughout my legal career, I’ve addressed challenges within the public safety continuum — from preventing youth violence to advocating for the safety of DV survivors and seniors at risk of exploitation.”

Health care is another priority for Taylor, who shares her home with her mother and sibling, both of whom live with chronic illness.

“Too many seniors and low-income residents are having to choose between life-saving medication or having somewhere to sleep at night,” said Taylor. “I am fortunate that I am able to help provide for my family, but too many others lack a safety net — only perpetuating cycles of homelessness and other trauma. We have to do better as a state to care for all people.

"It’s not only compassionate, but makes fiscal sense.”

“Representative Pellicciotti is a real leader for government transparency and accountability,” Taylor said, “and I look forward to continuing this work, building on my expertise in nonprofit governance, establishing public-private partnerships and collaborations, and fiscal oversight.”

“I’ve known Jamila as a fighter for the next generation of leaders in Federal Way and beyond,” said 30th District State Senator Claire Wilson. “Jamila is a needed voice not only for smart reforms of our criminal justice system, but for great schools with the support all scholars need and deserve to make the most of their education and careers, and also for the families who live within our communities."