The Washington House Republicans named Representative Bruce Chandler as the next person to lead the caucus in budget discussions. Chandler replaces Representative Gary Alexander who served as the ranking member on the House Appropriations Committee for eight years.

Chandler is a 13-year veteran of the Legislature who has served on the House Appropriations Committee seven years. He represents the 15th Legislative District which includes eastern Yakima County.

Alexander announced earlier this year that he will resign from is House seat later this year. He is currently running for the position of Thurston County auditor.