Secretary Hobbs statement on the passing of former Washington State Rep. and State Sen. John McCoy

OLYMPIA — Secretary of State Steve Hobbs issued the following statement on the passing of John McCoy, who for 17 years represented Washington’s 38th Legislative District in the State House of Representatives and State Senate.

“John McCoy’s passion for service to his district and issues that affect all Washingtonians inspired and educated me during our time in the Senate together. It was a privilege to represent a district next to his, and to learn up-close from his dedication and graciousness. As one of Washington’s longest-serving Native American legislators, John was a powerful advocate for causes that needed the full state’s attention. His work to pass the Native American Voting Rights Act to expand voting rights and access in tribal communities enabled Washington to make valuable, and long-overdue, progress toward equity and inclusion.

"On behalf of the Office of the Secretary of State, I wish to express my heartfelt condolences to John’s family, friends, and everyone whose life he had touched.”