History
Since 1790, the United States has taken an official headcount to help ensure a government by and for the people. Article I, Section 2 of the United States Constitution mandates this federal census every 10 years. The Census counts every man, woman and child to guarantee that all people are fairly represented in the political process.
Enter the 23rd Census.
In spring 2011, Washington received its Census 2010 data for redrawing legislative and congressional district boundaries. The new census information indicates that the state’s official 2010 population is just over 6.7 million people — an increase of nearly 1 million residents in 10 years’ time. This official figure and all accompanying redistricting data are being used by the Washington State Redistricting Commission to redraw the boundaries for each of the state’s 49 legislative and now ten congressional districts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Meet your Redistricting Commissioners
Commission Staff
 |
Bonnie Bunning, Executive DirectorJoined the Commission after a 34-year career with the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and in the private sector. Bonnie began her career as an economic geologist, moving to natural resource management and executive leadership in DNR over the years. Bonnie has a BA degree from Smith College and serves on the boards of the Girl Scouts of Western Washington and The Capitol Land Trust. In her spare time, Bonnie enjoys training for sprint triathlons, studying the ancient cultures of the Americas, and observing nature. Bonnie and her husband, Paul, live in Olympia and have two grown daughters. (360) 786-0040 ~ bonnie.bunning@redistricting.wa.gov |
 |
Heather Boe, Outreach Coordinator/Executive AssistantCame to us from the State Board of Health where she served in three different positions over the past 12 years. She spent most of that time as the Board’s communication consultant where she was responsible for web site management, publications and graphic design, and editing and writing. She also served the Board as an administrative assistant and an executive assistant. Heather’s experience includes many years in office administration and management for the private sector. Heather and her husband live in Olympia and have one daughter. (360) 786-0047 ~ heather.boe@redistricting.wa.gov |
 |
Genevieve O’Sullivan, Communications DirectorPreviously served as a communications consultant with the Washington State Auditor’s Office. She continues in her volunteer position as the Governor-appointed Chair of the Interagency Committee of State Employed Women. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Western Washington University, where she also had the opportunity to act as the student legislative liaison. She has a diverse background that includes work in policy, marketing, graphic design, and event planning. Genevieve and her husband have a variety of hobbies such as cheesemaking, photography, and traveling. (360) 786-0044 ~ genevieve.osullivan@redistricting.wa.gov |
 |
Nick Pharris, Project AnalystHas been working on the redistricting project since fall of 2007. An Olympia native, Nick is a graduate of Pacific Lutheran University and holds a Ph.D. in linguistics from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. His job with the Commission involves producing maps and analyzing political data. In his free time, Nick enjoys choral singing, traveling, nature walking, and spending quality time with his new bride, Caryn. (360) 786-0045 ~ nicholas.pharris@redistricting.wa.gov |
 |
Ryan Wilke, Project AnalystComes to the Commission from Microsoft, where he was a GIS Analyst for Firebird Studios, in Redmond. In 2008, Ryan graduated from the University of Washington with a bachelor’s degree in Geography, and specializes in GIS urban planning, programming, and implementation. During his time at UW, Ryan interned for the City of Shoreline as a GIS Analyst and Planner with the Planning and Community Development Department. He has since worked for Microsoft, Expedia and Tetra Tech, providing GIS solutions and developing cartographic products. In his free time, Ryan likes to paint, design, cook and travel. (360) 786-0046 ~ ryan.wilke@redistricting.wa.gov |
 |
Rachel Gay, Office CoordinatorHas been working for the Commission since May as an Administrative Assistant and was recently promoted Office Coordinator. Rachel came to us from the Senate Work Room, where she assisted in the day-to-day business of the Legislature. (360) 786-0770 ~ rachel.gay@redistricting.wa.gov |