In a news release sent out this afternoon, Washington Secretary of State Kim Wyman announced she has been diagnosed with colon cancer. She will be seeking treatment in the coming weeks.

While this news is upsetting, my doctors have told me this type of cancer is not only treatable, but curable. I expect to make a full recovery after undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatment.

As you may imagine, my family and I are experiencing all of the emotions that come with a cancer diagnosis, however I remain committed to my role as Secretary of State and will be fully-able to continue performing my official duties during my treatment and recovery periods.

I remain very positive about my plan of treatment and prognosis. Wyman’s Wire will include periodic updates.

Thank you for your support and please keep my family and me in your thoughts and prayers.

"Assistant Secretary Mark Neary will assume responsibility for day-to-day operations when Wyman is out of the office for treatment," the Associated Press reports.

Wyman, a Republican, was reelected to the office last November, beating out former Seattle City Councilmember Tina Podlodowski. She has served as secretary of state (overseeing elections and registering corporations) since 2012.