House Democrats elect Rep. Larry Springer of Kirkland to Deputy Majority Leader

House Democratic lawmakers elected three leadership positions, including Rep. Larry Springer from Kirkland as Deputy Majority Leader on Friday. His duties will focus on business outreach and engagement.

Springer has owned a small business in Kirkland, The Grape Choice for more than 25 years.

“I am honored to be elected to this position and excited to continue working to create jobs and promote economic growth for all Washingtonians,” Springer said.

During the last few sessions, Springer has hosted a weekly, open-door business meeting in Olympia, inviting lawmakers and businesses. The meeting is a smart, efficient, common-sense way for business advocates to bring their concerns to a large group of lawmakers.

“The frank, open discussion Springer facilitates is just one of the many ways he is an effective businesses liaison for the House Democrats,” House Democrats said in a release.

Springer is a former board member of the Seattle/King County Economic Development Council, former president of the Kirkland Downtown Association and mayor of Kirkland. He currently serves as a member of three chambers of commerce working on business development and promotion.

“Together, I am confident, we can continue to get more Washingtonians back to work and build a healthy economic future for our state,” Springer said.

Springer was first elected to the legislature in 2004, and in addition to his leadership position currently serves on the Appropriations, Finance, and Local Government committees.