SALE

WORKING FOR EVERYONE

Have a Question for Marla? Ask her here!

The daughter of an Air Force pilot and a special education teacher, Marla’s years as a military brat began and ended in the Pacific Northwest, near Pierce County’s Joint Base Lewis McChord. A childhood-long fascination with storytelling led her to pursue broadcast journalism as a career. After graduating from Puyallup High School and being named 1998 Washington State High School Journalist of the Year, Marla first headed south from Puyallup, Washington, to Arizona State University for a degree, and then east to New York City for an opportunity in sports television. Manhattan would become home for 16 years, as Marla’s producing career in sports included covering six Olympic Games and earning four Sports Emmy awards.

Marla and her husband shifted gears in 2016, heading west and settling in White Salmon. Their family expanded to include a daughter in 2018 and son in 2020.

MEET MARLA

VISION &
PRIORITIES

We lose faith in the government when we don’t see results from our hard-earned dollars. We need legislators who understand how to make resources more available – and more impactful – for local communities and families.

As Mayor of White Salmon, I’ve worked to do just that:

Protect and enhance public safety– including police and fire response.
Invest in and support affordable housing solutions for seniors and working families.
Fight for the jobs and economic lifeline provided by bridge and road improvements.

With your support, I will bring real solutions to our district's most challenging issues.

I’m running to challenge the status quo, ask tough questions, and ensure all voices are heard as we take on bigger challenges of affordable housing and childcare, public safety and behavioral health, and creating strong local economies.

Throughout my life and career, I’ve learned the importance of finding common ground with my neighbors and colleagues, the value of teamwork, and the power of public service.

I am running for State Senate to help bridge gaps in our politics, better connect people to the services and support they deserve, improve care and educational outcomes for our kids, and protect our rights and freedoms.

Learn More About My Record

Endorsements

WE'RE GRATEFUL
FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Contribute now to help make Marla's vision a reality and our community a better place.

More Endorsements →

Media

AWC City Voice: A Tale of Two Cities

Mayors Marla Keethler of White Salmon and Dee Roberts of Raymond, celebrated for their leadership in communities rich with heritage and potential, showcase the evolving landscapes of small-town governance at the AWC Mayors Exchange. From White Salmon's vibrant cultural renaissance to Raymond's resilient response to housing challenges, these mayors exemplify the dedication and innovation driving Washington's small cities forward.

OPB: Efforts Advance to Replace Nearly 100-year old Hood River White Salmon Bridge

The federal government recently allocated $200 million towards the replacement of the Hood River-White Salmon bridge, a vital lifeline for residents and the regional economy. With Mayor Marla Keethler overseeing the efforts as a commissioner, plans are underway to address the bridge's structural deficiencies and ensure a safer, more resilient crossing for the future.

The Seattle Times: White Salmon, a Gorge Vacation Hot Spot, Can’t Staff its Restaurants

Marla Keethler, mayor of White Salmon, faces the challenge of a housing shortage and labor scarcity in the town's bustling tourist-centric economy. With affordable housing becoming increasingly scarce and restaurant owners struggling to find staff, Keethler and the City Council are implementing measures to address the crisis, including setting aside land for affordable housing and enacting zoning regulations to preserve low-income housing options.

The Columbian: Fighting Fire with Firewise – Columbia River Gorge Towns Push for More Wildfire Safety Practices

Marla Keethler, White Salmon's mayor, reflects on the recent Tunnel Five Fire near Underwood, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to combat intensifying wildfire seasons. Despite challenges such as declining volunteer firefighters and resistance to fire mitigation projects, Keethler advocates for community involvement and a cultural shift towards embracing fire safety principles to protect homes and entire cities like White Salmon.