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Senate confirms Lottery director and DSHS secretary in unanimous votes
Summary
On Feb. 10, 2026, the Washington State Senate confirmed Brian C. Bennett as director of the Washington State Lottery and Angela Ramirez as secretary of the Department of Social and Health Services; both confirmations passed by recorded roll-call tallies of 49 ayes, 0 nays.
The Washington State Senate on Feb. 10, 2026, confirmed two gubernatorial appointments in unanimous roll-call votes.
Brian C. Bennett was confirmed as director of the Washington State Lottery (gubernatorial appointment number 9265). Senator Lavett introduced Bennett’s background on the floor, citing his University of Washington undergraduate degree and a law degree from New York University, prior municipal service and work on the governor’s transition team. The secretary called the roll and the presiding officer announced 49 ayes, 0 nays, confirming Bennett.
Later the Senate confirmed Angela Ramirez as secretary of the Department of Social and Health Services (gubernatorial appointment number 9299). Senator Claire Wilson presented Ramirez’s background—Princeton University degree, public service roles and committee testimony—and described the confirmation hearing as focused on Ramirez’s lived experience and commitments to Washingtonians. Senator Christian also spoke in support. The roll call again produced 49 ayes, 0 nays; the Senate confirmed Ramirez.
Both confirmations were presented as routine but substantive endorsements of the nominees’ qualifications; each nominee’s background and prior public service were noted during floor remarks. The Senate then stood at ease for caucuses.
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