The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners appointed State Rep. Drew Hansen Aug. 23 to fill the vacancy of state senator representing the 23rd Legislative District, replacing Christine Rolfes, who resigned after her appointment as a county commissioner June 5.

Hansen has represented the 23rd District since 2011, a county news release states. He said he is honored for the opportunity to continue serving the community in the Senate.

Kitsap commissioners conducted interviews with three candidates nominated by county Democrats to fill the vacated Senate seat. In addition to Hansen, those included Brynn Felix and Chris Cancialosi.

“The Democratic Party sent us really superb, qualified candidates, and we had meaningful conversations with each of them,” County Commissioner Charlotte Garrido said. “Drew has a proven track record of improving the life of citizens and will continue the great work of former Senator Rolfes, working across the aisle for Kitsap County.”

Kitsap Democrats now will begin the process to fill the seat Hansen vacates in the state House of Representatives and will again forward three candidates to the county commissioners, who will conduct interviews and make an appointment to fill that position.