Claire Wilson
State Senator LD 30
Federal Way, Washington
What was the first major issue that got you into public service as a politician?
The first major issue that got me into politics was education. While serving as one of the directors on the School Board, it became clear that decisions were being made in the best interest of the students.
However, if it weren’t for a phone call from a community member the night before the filing deadline
asking me to run for that position, I might never have become as involved as I did.
What is the core of your platform that represents you today?
Putting the most vulnerable members of our communities at the forefront of our work is a core pillar of
my values. I believe that by prioritizing those most in need, we benefit society as a whole. Equitable
access is a rising tide that lifts all boats, and I see this work as a means of providing comprehensive
community support. For example, the pushback we saw around the inclusive curriculum bill highlighted negative rhetoric about using school resources for a small, specific group. LGBTQ+ youth need to see themselves represented in their curriculum because they are a part of the community and
always will be.
What is the thing you are most proud of achieving thus far?
I am most proud of passing the Comprehensive Sexual Health Education Bill. It’s worth noting that, similar to the inflammatory rhetoric surrounding certain gender-affirming policies, there was considerable misinformed pushback against Comprehensive Sexual Health Education. Despite the clear benefits shown by data—such as decreases in sexual violence, teen pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections—the opposition persisted.
What goals do you still have to accomplish?
I have many goals! We have worked hard on improving access to childcare and early education. The
next step is to ensure not just living-wage jobs but thriving-wage jobs for childcare and early education
providers. These professionals shape the hearts and minds of our youngest learners every day and deserve compensation that reflects their importance. I am always learning, listening, and seeking new
ways to prioritize prevention, as supporting early education and childcare is a powerful prevention
strategy. It’s about equipping young people with the skills they need to thrive.
Another area of focus is enhancing support for our Juvenile Rehabilitation (JR) and Department of Corrections (DOC) systems. It’s important that we consider how all spaces and places within our systems—whether in juvenile rehabilitation, DOC, or other statewide systems like education, healthcare, housing, family, and child welfare—can be safe and supportive for everyone.
What is the highest level you want to reach before leaving public office?
I am content where I am! I have found the sweet spot for changemaking and currently feel that I am most suited for this role. I have accomplished what I have because I am in the right place.
Who inspires you to keep fighting even when the battles seem too much?
I am most inspired by community members and advocates who bring me problems—and often solutions. They are the ones doing the true work. I help with legislation or funding, but I am a small part of the bigger picture and could not do my work without their support. I am especially inspired by our young people calling for change, and I make it a personal priority to show up for them in any way I can—providing access, opportunity, ownership, and voice.
Who is your role model from history in public service?
My role model in public service is my mother, Hilde Marianne Frohlich Wilson. She came from Germany to Seattle as a teenager during the war. Kristallnacht was her most vivid childhood memory. She always said her family came to a place free from persecution, for which she was deeply thankful. She believed in the goodness of everyone and everything and that the glass is always half full. I have carried these beliefs throughout my life and work in public service. She also believed that each person has a story worth listening to and that life experiences provide valuable perspectives.
What advice do you have for the community to help make change happen, beyond voting?
My advice for community members who want to effect change is to listen, show up where you can, and
engage. It is powerful to know your neighbors and community. Listening to the needs of those closest
to you gives you the best understanding of what’s going on and what needs to change. Everyone should
engage with legislation related to the issues they care about—testify on bills, call and write your representatives, and even come to Olympia to advocate for the change you want to see. Legislation at
the state level often will not progress if it does not have community support.
