Statement from Governor Bob Ferguson on Justice Barbara Madsen’s upcoming retirement from the Washington Supreme Court
OLYMPIA — Governor Bob Ferguson offered the following statement on Justice Barbara Madsen’s announcement that she will retire from the bench effective April 3, 2026:
“Justice Madsen goes down in history as the first woman ever to be popularly elected to the Washington Supreme Court. She is also the second longest-serving justice in our state’s history.
“In her 33 years on the high court, Justice Madsen served two terms as chief justice and took part in deciding thousands of cases — leaving a lasting legacy on Washington state jurisprudence.
“Justice Madsen devoted her career to public service. After graduating from the University of Washington and earning her law degree from Gonzaga University School of Law, she worked as a public defender, prosecutor, and municipal court judge before running for the Washington Supreme Court. Washingtonians clearly approved of her service — they re-elected her five times.
“I want to express my deep appreciation to Justice Madsen for her lifetime of service to the people of Washington and the rule of law.”
Governor Ferguson will appoint a new justice to fill the upcoming vacancy on the Washington Supreme Court. He expects to make an appointment no later than April 3 and is immediately beginning a selection process. Applicants should submit their materials (using the instructions found on this page) by Thursday, February 26, 2026. Applicants for the Supreme Court vacancy created by Justice Mary Yu’s retirement last fall will be considered, as will any new applicants.
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