Politics affects nursing in every way — get ready for 2026
This story appears in the February 2026 edition of The Washington Nurse.
In an interview with podcaster Nurse Erica, Oregon State Rep. Travis Nelson, a long-time WSNA nurse representative, says he knows many nurses want to avoid politics. But, he pointed out, the profession is controlled by politics.
“I know there are people who say they want to avoid politics, but whether it’s nurse-to-patient ratios, how the hospital’s getting reimbursed, rules around insurance, rules around EMTALA — literally, everything that we do in our profession is about politics,” he said.
While politics may not necessarily be everyone’s cup of tea, it does directly impact the policies or laws that govern how nurses provide care. If we, as nurses, want good policy created on our behalf, we must engage in that process.
We also have the opportunity to be in the positions of power to make that policy by running for and getting elected to public office. As they say, “If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu.” This could not be more true when it comes to healthcare policy and nursing.
If you’ve ever thought, I could do this job better than these politicians ... do it! There will be several opportunities to run for office this year.
For example, in the 2026 midterm elections, all 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives are up for reelection, as they are every even-numbered year. One of those seats is open, as Rep. Dan Newhouse of the 4th Congressional District has announced he is not seeking reelection.
A Congressional race worth watching in Washington state this year will be that of Marie Gluesenkamp Perez from the 3rd Congressional District (southwest Washington and the Vancouver area). She has taken a number of votes contrary to her party, which makes her vulnerable in an already difficult district to win. She won her election in 2024, with only 51.9% of the vote.
Washington State GOP Senate leader John Braun is challenging Gluesenkamp Perez for her seat. Braun has established name recognition in the district as a Republican state senator for nearly 14 years.
Don’t want to run for Congress? No problem! In the state legislature, all 98 seats of the state House of Representatives will be on the ballot, as will 24 of 49 seats in the State Senate.
In addition, several seats on the State Supreme Court and Court of Appeals will be on the November 2026 ballot, as will many Superior Court positions across the state.
Washington counties, cities, and special districts also will hold local elections in 2026 — county commissioners, city council, school board, fire district, and special district boards.
To keep updated with politics and policy as it impacts nurses in our state, stay tuned for regular updates from our government affairs team with regular emails filling you in on what’s happening at the state and federal levels, along with action alerts letting you know how you can add your voice and make a difference. If you do not get these updates and would like to, sign up.