Finishing up leadership elections for the year, the House Democratic Caucus elected newly minted State Rep. Joan McBride to the position of Assistant Whip.

“I am honored and excited to be chosen for this important position by my colleagues,” McBride said.

Before a bill is brought to the floor for a vote, responsible leaders know they must be able to estimate how many yes or no votes each piece of legislation will receive. In her new position, McBride will be responsible for rounding up her colleagues and counting their votes. This is a critical step in the legislative process.

“I think my years of experience coordinating stakeholders, city council members and other local leaders have prepared me well for this new job,” McBride said. “I’m looking forward to being such a critical part of the action.”

McBride, who formerly served as mayor and city council member for the city of Kirkland, will also serve on the Local Government, Environment, Transportation and Rules Committees. She was sworn in Monday as the new state representative for the 48th Legislative District.