Janice Zahn

Janice Zahn is an American engineer and politician currently serving as a member of the Washington House of Representatives for the 41st district. A member of the Democratic Party, she was appointed to her legislative position in January 2025, succeeding Tana Senn. Prior to her tenure in the state legislature, Zahn served on the Bellevue City Council from 2017 until her appointment to the state house. Her professional background is rooted in engineering, having held various roles at the Port of Seattle, where she has worked since 2000 and currently serves as chief engineer.

Early life and career

Janice Zahn was born on July 19, 1965, in Hong Kong. At the age of ten, she and her family immigrated to the United States, a transition that would shape her future endeavors both personally and professionally. The experience of moving to a new country likely influenced her perspectives and aspirations, fostering a commitment to community service and public engagement.

Zahn pursued her higher education at the University of Washington, where she earned three degrees. Her academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, a Master of Science in Structural Engineering and Mechanics, and a Master of Arts in Public Administration. This extensive educational background provided her with a strong foundation in both technical engineering and the principles of governance and public policy.

Following her education, Zahn began her professional career at the Port of Seattle in 2000. Over the years, she has taken on various roles within the organization, showcasing her expertise in engineering and her ability to manage complex projects. In 2022, she was appointed chief engineer at the Port, a position that underscores her leadership capabilities and technical knowledge in a critical infrastructure setting.

In addition to her work at the Port, Zahn was active in local governance prior to her election to the Bellevue City Council. She served on the Bellevue Transportation Commission from 2013 to 2017, where she contributed to discussions and decisions regarding transportation policies and infrastructure in the Bellevue area. This role provided her with valuable insights into the needs and challenges of her community, further preparing her for her future political endeavors.

Legislative service

Zahn's entry into elected office began when she ran for a position on the Bellevue City Council. In November 2017, she successfully won a seat on the council, representing position 5. Her election marked a significant step in her political career, allowing her to engage directly with constituents and influence local policies. During her time on the council, she worked on various initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life in Bellevue, addressing issues such as transportation, housing, and community development.

Zahn's tenure on the Bellevue City Council lasted until early 2025, when she was appointed to the Washington House of Representatives. This appointment came after the resignation of Ernie Simas, who had been appointed to fill a vacancy left by Vandana Slatter. The King County Council unanimously selected Zahn to succeed Simas, recognizing her experience and commitment to public service.

Upon her appointment to the state legislature, Zahn resigned from her position on the Bellevue City Council, effective March 28, 2025. Following her departure, Claire Sumadiwirya was appointed to fill her council seat. Zahn's transition to the Washington House of Representatives marked a new chapter in her political career, allowing her to engage with state-level issues and legislation.

In the special election held later in 2025, Zahn successfully retained her seat in the House against Republican candidate John Whitney. This victory affirmed her support within the community and her commitment to representing the interests of her constituents in the 41st district.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Washington House of Representatives, Zahn represents the 41st district, which encompasses parts of Bellevue and surrounding areas. Her policy focus is informed by her background in engineering and her experience in local government. She is likely to prioritize issues related to infrastructure, transportation, and community development, drawing on her technical expertise and her understanding of the needs of her constituents.

Zahn's engineering background positions her uniquely to address complex infrastructure challenges within her district. She may advocate for sustainable development practices, improved transportation systems, and investments in public works that enhance the quality of life for residents. Additionally, her experience on the Bellevue City Council equips her with a nuanced understanding of local governance, enabling her to navigate the intricacies of state and local collaboration.

Given her commitment to public service, Zahn is also expected to engage with community members and stakeholders to ensure that their voices are heard in the legislative process. Her role as a state representative allows her to advocate for policies that reflect the values and needs of her constituents, fostering a sense of community involvement and representation.

Zahn's personal life is intertwined with her professional commitments. She has been married to her husband, Dwain, since 1989, and together they have two daughters. The family has resided in Bellevue for over three decades, further solidifying their ties to the community. Zahn's involvement in local activities and her attendance at a Methodist church reflect her dedication to both her family and her community.

In summary, Janice Zahn's journey from her early life in Hong Kong to her current role as a state legislator illustrates a commitment to public service and community engagement. Her educational and professional background in engineering, combined with her experience in local government, positions her to address the challenges faced by her constituents in the 41st district. As she continues her legislative work, Zahn remains focused on representing the interests of her community while drawing on her expertise to inform her policy decisions.