Rep. Kevin Van De Wege was re-elected Majority Whip of the House Democratic Caucus on Nov. 18.

“I’m honored and humbled to have the trust of not only the people of the 24th Legislative District, but also of the elected Democratic representatives from across the state,” Van De Wege said in a statement to the press.

“I am looking forward to helping guide our caucus through what will be a difficult yet opportunity-filled 2015 session,” he said.

The House Democratic Caucus met in Olympia on Nov. 18, selecting a number of leaders for the next legislative session. Joining Van De Wege and returning to their previously held leadership positions are Frank Chopp (Seattle) as House Speaker-designate, Pat Sullivan (Covington) as Majority Leader and Eric Pettigrew (Seattle) as Majority Caucus Chair.

Kris Lytton (Anacortes) was elected Majority Floor Leader for the first time.

“I believe we have an excellent leadership team ready to pilot our caucus through tough debates on education, mental health and oil transportation,” Van De Wege said. “I’m hopeful that we will find the common ground necessary to move Washington forward toward greater prosperity for all.”

The remaining members of the HDC Leadership team, including the Speaker pro tem-designate, will be elected at a future date. The Speaker-designate and Speaker pro tem-designate must be elected by the entire House on the first day of the 2015 session.