Washington Senate confirms four nominees to State Women’s Commission

The Washington State Senate on March 6 confirmed four gubernatorial nominees to the Washington State Women’s Commission in separate roll-call votes.

Allison F. Holub (appointment 9143) was recommended by Senator Bateman, who cited Holub’s academic background and professional experience; the roll call returned 49 ayes, 0 nays and the clerk announced Holub was confirmed. Senator Bateman said Holub had earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Gonzaga University and a master’s in public administration, and described her private-sector and policy experience.

Yolanda King Lowe (appointment 9144) was nominated and supported by Senator Nobles; after a roll call the tally was 30 ayes and 19 nays and the clerk announced King Lowe confirmed. The transcript records some recorded no votes during the roll call; the clerk announced the required majority had been received.

Malia Mullen (appointment 9145) was moved for confirmation by Senator Wellman, who summarized Mullen’s nonprofit leadership and community involvement; the roll call returned 30 ayes, 19 nays and Mullen was confirmed.

Christina Kobdish (appointment 9163), a reappointment, was moved by Senator Shumate; the roll call returned 49 ayes, 0 nays and Kobdish was confirmed. Senators offering remarks highlighted her many years working on health care and community services for low-income and marginalized residents.

Vote tallies and movers:
- Allison F. Holub (9143): mover Senator Bateman; roll-call result announced as 49 ayes, 0 nays; confirmed.
- Yolanda King Lowe (9144): mover Senator Nobles; roll-call result 30 ayes, 19 nays; confirmed.
- Malia Mullen (9145): mover Senator Wellman; roll-call result 30 ayes, 19 nays; confirmed.
- Christina Kobdish (9163): mover Senator Shumate; roll-call result 49 ayes, 0 nays; confirmed.

Why it matters: Confirmations populate a state advisory body (Washington State Women’s Commission) that informs policy and outreach on women's issues. The vote splits on two nominations indicate some level of dissent for those nominees, while two confirmations were unanimous.

What happens next: The confirmed appointees will serve on the Washington State Women’s Commission according to statutory terms and any reporting requirements attached to that commission.