The Ritzville Adams County Journal - Eastern Adams County's Only Independent Voice Since 1887

OLYMPIA – The state Republican Party has a new chairman.

Rep. Jim Walsh, 59, of Aberdeen, has replaced Caleb Heimlich.

Walsh was elected in a 95-15 vote by Republican leaders attending the state committee meeting Saturday, Aug. 12.

“Jim Walsh is an exceptional representative and community leader who has a proven track record of winning tough battles, including flipping Legislative District 19 from a Democrat stronghold since the days of FDR into a Republican stronghold built on a variety of voting coalitions,” party Executive Director Brady Batt said.