In 2022, WDTL bid farewell and a happy retirement to our longtime lobbyist, Mel Sorensen. At the recommendation of Mel, WDTL retained Brewer Public Affairs to continue strengthening WDTL’s presence in Olympia. I want to take a moment to introduce Christine Brewer and Kris Tefft of Brewer Public Affairs, two professionals who play an essential role in our legislative advocacy. Many of you have met them during CLE’s or through committee work, but I want our full membership to know who they are, what they do, and why their work matters to all of us.

Christine Brewer, Principal Lobbyist at Brewer Public Affairs, brings more than twenty years of experience in Washington governmental affairs. Before founding her firm, she served as Director of Government Affairs for both the Department of Social and Health Services and the Department of Labor & Industries and previously lobbied for the Associated General Contractors of Washington.

Christine has a remarkable ability to anticipate legislative movement and build strong, bipartisan relationships. She keeps WDTL informed, prepared, and positioned to engage effectively with policymakers. Her strategic guidance ensures that our concerns are heard early, before bills gain momentum.

Kris Tefft is an attorney and government affairs principal whose legislative and regulatory advocacy focuses on insurance, financial services, technology, and professional services. His background includes serving as General Counsel and Governmental Affairs Director for the Association of Washington Business and clerking for the Washington Supreme Court. He also serves as Executive Director and General Counsel of the Washington Self‑Insurers Association.

Kris brings a deep understanding of how proposed laws affect defense practitioners, insurers, and employers. His legal training and policy experience make him an invaluable resource as we evaluate legislation and prepare testimony.

Together, Christine and Kris monitor legislation year‑round, analyze proposals, coordinate meetings with lawmakers, and support WDTL testimony and member engagement. Their leadership was especially visible during our 2026 Day on the Hill, where they guided conversations, opened doors, and ensured WDTL’s expertise was front and center.

Your Membership Dues at Work

I also want to highlight that a portion of every WDTL membership dues payment directly supports lobbying, including Christine and Kris's work. This investment allows us to maintain a credible, consistent presence in Olympia, respond quickly to fast‑moving legislative developments, evaluate proposed laws through the lens of real‑world defense practice, and protect the interests of our members and the clients we serve.

Legislative advocacy is one of the most important ways WDTL fulfills its mission. Your dues make this work possible.

As we prepare for the 2027 Washington State Legislative Session, Christine and Kris are already tracking interim activity, monitoring pre‑filed bills, and identifying issues likely to impact civil litigation, insurance, and defense practice. Their early engagement ensures that WDTL enters the session informed, proactive, and ready to advocate for fairness and balance in Washington’s civil justice system.

With their guidance and with your continued support, WDTL is well‑positioned to navigate the fast‑paced session ahead and protect the interests of the defense bar in Washington and the Pacific Northwest.