State Senate Democrats have again chosen Bremerton lawmaker Sen. Betti Sheldon to serve as their floor leader, the third-highest ranking leadership position in the Senate.

Sheldon represents the 23rd Legislative District and has served the Senate since 1993.

“I am truly honored by the confidence and support my colleagues have shown in electing me to this position of responsibility,” Sheldon said. “Given the magnitude of the issues facing us in the upcoming session – the budget deficit and the ongoing transportation crisis – we’re going to need to work together as a team to keep our state strong and moving in the right direction.”

Sheldon was unanimously re-elected to a two-year term as floor leader at a recent meeting of Senate Democrats. She has served as Democratic floor leader since 1997. At the same meeting, Sen. Lisa Brown of Spokane, was elected Democratic leader, replacing Sen. Sid Snyder, who recently resigned from the Senate. Sen. Harriet Spanel of Bellingham, was re-elected caucus chair.