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Nov. 20, 2025
Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/CREDIT: Washington State Legislature
Dear friends and neighbors,
As you’ve likely heard, the federal government has now reopened, ending the uncertainty around SNAP benefits (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). During the shutdown, nearly 930,000 Washingtonians were at risk of losing the food assistance they rely on to afford groceries — a disruption that caused significant stress for families across our state.
This was never a partisan issue. It was a people issue.
Read more about SNAP funding resuming
Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/CREDIT: Washington State Legislature
When our region’s grid faces drought, extreme cold, and high demand at the same time, the question isn’t if we’ll feel the strain; it’s how much we can endure. The clock is ticking for our energy infrastructure.
Read more about the looming energy reliability crisis
Remembering former Tri-Cities Sen. Pat Hale and a life centered on service
I was saddened to learn of the passing of former 8th District Senator Patricia S. “Pat” Hale in September. Pat was a woman whose life was truly centered on service to her family, her community, and the people of Washington state.
Pat dedicated herself to making the Tri-Cities stronger, from her leadership as director of the Kennewick Chamber of Commerce to her work at Hanford and her service on numerous local boards and organizations. She brought people together, invested in others’ success, and led with both purpose and compassion.
When Pat was appointed to represent the 8th Legislative District in 1994, she carried that same spirit of service to Olympia. For ten years, she represented our region with thoughtfulness, grace, and an unwavering commitment to the values of the people she served. She was known for her ability to work across party lines while always standing firm for what mattered most to families, small businesses, and our local economy. Her work on behalf of Hanford, economic development, and public safety continues to shape and strengthen our communities today.
Although I didn’t have the privilege of knowing Pat personally, I see the impact of her leadership everywhere in our district. Her tireless dedication to the Tri-Cities and her belief in this region's promise helped lay the foundation we continue to build on today.
On behalf of the people of the 8th District, I offer my heartfelt condolences to her husband, Tom, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. May Pat Hale’s memory continues to inspire all of us to lead with service, integrity, and hope for the future of the Tri-Cities.
Senator Hale's Obituary
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