Previous director, widely respected budget analyst Jason Mercier takes management position at Idaho-based think tank

SEATTLE – Washington Policy Center (WPC) has named Chris Corry as the new director for WPC’s Center for Government Reform. Corry is replacing long-time director Jason Mercier, who is leaving to take a management position at the Idaho-based Mountain States Policy Center. 

“I can’t imagine leaving this position with someone better,” declared Mercier. “Chris Corry is one of a handful of people in this state whose grasp of budget and policy issues I have absolute confidence in. I’ve devoted more than 20 years to Washington state policy and it’s gratifying to leave this position in such capable hands.” 

Corry has more than eighteen years of experience in the insurance industry and risk management. As a Washington State Representative, he represents West Yakima County and all of Klickitat County. In his community he serves on a number of boards including Crime Stoppers of Yakima County, Central Washington State Fair Board and the Yakima Salvation Army Advisory Board.

“For a lot of people, budget policy is just about the numbers – and obviously, it’s essential to get those right,” Corry explained. “But we can’t lose track of the fact that budget policy is about people’s priorities – how we live our lives, what kinds of homes we can afford, the schools our kids attend, and whether the vulnerable are properly cared for. Being efficient with Washington State’s revenue is another way of saying you are being respectful of the people, because this money is coming from them.”

“We are incredibly pleased to have Corry join our team,” remarked Mike Gallagher, WPC President and CEO. “His grasp of budget and policy is rooted in both legislative experience and almost two decades in the private sector and he can go toe-to-toe with anyone in the state. Jason Mercier established a reputation for excellence for WPC’s Center for Government Reform that Chris Corry will build on from day one.”  

Jason Mercier directed WPC’s Center for Government Reform for nearly two decades and became one of the state’s most widely respected budget analysts and tax experts. Legislators and media have counted on the Center for Government Reform to provide institutional memory and expertise. Chris Corry’s command of the material and reputation for detail position him to hit the ground running as the new center director. 

 “Jason exemplified the high standards of WPC scholarship,” Corry explained. “I intend to build on that legacy and the solid foundation of work he’s leaving behind.” 

“Washington state’s loss of Jason Mercier is Idaho, Montana and Wyoming’s gain,” explained WPC President and CEO Mike Gallagher. “Jason’s work and professionalism are exemplary. He has always been and will always be, a good friend to WPC and the cause of better government and leaves WPC‘s Government Reform Center with excellent leadership.”

“We are thankful that Washington state has been so well-served by Jason Mercier’s remarkable tenure at Washington Policy Center and wish him all the best in his new venture,” Kevin Bouchey, Chair of WPC’s Board of Directors exclaimed. “We are also thrilled to have such a smooth transition in leadership to Chris Corry and are honored to have a person of his caliber and experience aboard.”

Chris Corry will divide his time between his legislative duties and with Washington Policy Center. His first day as WPC’s Director of Government Reform is May 1.

*This publication has been modified since its original release. 

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