Dan Evans, former Republican governor of Washington and U.S. senator, dies at 98

Born in 1925 in Seattle, Evans served as Washington’s governor from 1965 to 1977, making him the only individual to be elected governor three times until current Governor Jay Inslee. He was a civil engineer before entering politics and was instrumental in establishing the state’s first Department of Ecology, which served as a model for the federal Environmental Protection Agency. After his governorship, Evans was appointed to the U.S. Senate in 1983 following the death of Senator Henry “Scoop” Jackson but chose not to run for re-election in 1988 due to frustrations with the legislative process. His legacy is characterized by a commitment to public service, environmental stewardship, and educational reform, as well as a dedication to bipartisan cooperation.

Political Career

• Governorship: Evans was a three-term governor, serving from 1965 to 1977. His leadership included significant environmental initiatives and the expansion of recreational areas in Washington.
• U.S. Senate: After a brief period in the Senate, he opted not to seek re-election, citing the challenges of legislative gridlock and a desire to return to his outdoor pursuits.

Legacy and Impact

Evans is remembered as a prominent figure in the centrist wing of the Republican Party, advocating for policies that often crossed party lines. His contributions to higher education included serving as president of The Evergreen State College after his governorship. His family described him as someone who lived a full life dedicated to public service, mentoring, and family, leaving behind a legacy that will influence future generations of public servants.