Governor Ferguson Appoints Andrew Howell Superior Court Judge for Benton & Franklin Counties

Governor Ferguson appoints Andrew Howell to Benton & Franklin Counties Superior Court

April 15, 2026

Story Body OLYMPIA – Today Governor Bob Ferguson announced the appointment of Commissioner Andrew Howell to the position of Benton & Franklin Counties Superior Court Judge. Howell’s appointment, effective June 1, fills the position that Judge Diana Ruff’s resignation will vacate.

Howell is a career public servant who has served in his current role as a Benton & Franklin Counties Superior Court Commissioner in Pasco since 2022, where he presides over a wide range of civil and juvenile criminal dockets. He serves on several judicial committees, including Law Day and family, juvenile and criminal law.

“Andrew Howell has spent his entire legal career in Central Washington working hard on behalf of Washingtonians,” Governor Ferguson said. “I’m confident he will provide steady leadership in this joint judicial district.”

“I am deeply honored to serve the communities of Benton and Franklin Counties in this role,” Howell said. “I am committed to upholding the Constitution and ensuring our courts remain fair, accessible and grounded in respect for all who appear before them. I look forward to continuing my work in public service and upholding public confidence in the judiciary.”

Prior to becoming a court commissioner, Howell spent over a decade at the Benton County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, including six years as its Juvenile Division’s Chief Deputy. He also spent five years prosecuting a wide range of felonies, specializing in complex cases, among other roles within the office.

In his spare time, he enjoys spending as much time as he can with his family. He describes himself as an avid amateur cook, a gravel bike enthusiast and a “poor excuse for a fly-fisherman.”

Howell earned his bachelor’s degree from Creighton University and his law degree from University of Montana School of Law.

Media Contacts

Brionna Aho, Governor's Communications Director
Brionna.aho@gov.wa.gov
360-628-3843