Rep. Frank Chopp’s legacy of service will live on, to WA’s benefit

Whether it was the tiny pieces of paper he used to scribble notes, or hours spent corralling diverse members of his caucus to pass legislation, state Rep. Frank Chopp used his influence to help form Washington’s political landscape. 

Chopp, a powerful figure in Washington politics, died suddenly Saturday at 71.

First elected to the House in 1994 to represent the 43rd Legislative District, Chopp served as Speaker of the House from 1999 to 2019, making him the state’s longest serving speaker.

During his tenure, Chopp drew from his Bremerton roots as the son of a union electrician and a school cafeteria worker and later from his years as a Seattle community organizer. He championed legislation on education and anti-poverty issues, such as paid family leave, housing affordability and Apple Health and Homes.

As speaker he grew the state’s Democratic Party in prominence and power. He mentored many Washingtonians who shared similar political views, some of whom sought political office.

“Because of Frank Chopp we have a statewide approach to justice,” said Rep. Monica Stonier, D-Vancouver, who lost her first legislative bid yet credits Chopp for her eventual win and current role as Majority Floor Leader.

“With housing he made sure certain funding was designated outside of the Puget Sound. It’s because he knew everything we did in social justice had to touch all corners of the state,” Stonier said.

The Times editorial board endorsed Chopp for reelection many times over the years, despite many disagreements. His commitment to serving the whole state over ideologies was the reason why.

Although Chopp had a reputation of pulling political levers behind the scenes, he was a staunch supporter of open government. He was among seven current and former lawmakers who signed a pledge last year not to invoke legislative privilege. In recent years, many lawmakers have cited that to shield their emails from public disclosure. That practice is in litigation and will likely be decided eventually by the state Supreme Court. On March 14, he was honored for that commitment.

 “You have to fight back and win on this issue because the people are with you,” Chopp said as he received the Ballard-Thompson Award from the Washington Coalition for Open Government at its Sunshine Breakfast in Bellevue.

Chopp remained a major force in the House until he opted not to run for reelection last year.

In reaction to his decision, then-Gov. Jay Inslee summed up Chopp’s decades of service.

“There are few people who work harder and with more heart,” Inslee said. “He has dedicated his career to lifting people out of poverty and strengthening economic security and opportunity for all Washingtonians.” 

Those with political aspirations or desire to serve the public in other capacities can learn from Chopp’s style, heart and dedication to all the people of Washington.