Elizabeth Popoff, Legislative Assistant

Elizabeth was hired two years ago as my Legislative Assistant, previously working as my Legislative Session Aide. As my Legislative Assistant, she works closely with me on all matters in the office, with constituents, and on legislative priorities. She and the other staff will assist with meeting requests, constituent appointments, email responses, and other activities. Elizabeth is a native of the Wenatchee Valley and was a member of the 2019 Apple Blossom Festival Royal Court. She graduated from the University of Washington with a communications degree and from the University of Idaho with a Master of Public Administration degree. Her work experience includes RH2 Engineering, Cashmere Valley Bank, Fabulous Feet Dance Studio, and Lake Life Chelan.

Emily Galde, Legislative Session Aide

Emily is returning to my office this year as my Legislative Session Aide, having worked in the same position last session. She graduated from Washington State University, completing her Political Science and Pre-Law Program studies. Emily will be based in our Olympia office and assist with incoming correspondence, constituent visits, and capitol tours, among many other things. Emily is very passionate about state government and the judiciary branch. Her past work includes working for Lake Life Chelan in restaurant service and as a legal intern.

Eric LaFontaine, Public Information Officer

Eric is a communications staff member assigned to me through the Senate Republican Caucus. He will work closely with me on all aspects of my communication efforts, including managing my website, editing my email newsletters, reviewing my guest opinion submittals, distributing news releases, coordinating local radio interviews, and responding to media requests. Eric graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in political science, earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Regis University, and served in the Navy Reserves. He worked in communications for the Washington Department of Children, Youth, and Families. Before that, he founded and published various media organizations, magazines, and community newspapers.

Ethan Jud, Legislative Intern

Ethan Jud is serving as my Legislative Intern this session. He spends a portion of each week completing a rigorous program with other interns from in-state universities. In addition to his intern program duties, Ethan will work daily for my office, tracking legislative priorities, meeting with constituents, responding to phone calls, and coordinating correspondence. Ethan is from Camas, Washington, and attends Saint Martin’s University. He is a student-athlete at the university, studying Criminal Justice and playing on the soccer team.