Hello neighbor!

I would like to represent the voters of the 17th Legislative District in the State Senate. You know that government should be about serving you- not special interests, not political parties, not some ideology. If you feel like you don’t have a voice in the political process, or that politics has been co-opted by big money and special interests, let’s fix that. The solution is to get involved and make sure your voice is heard.

Why I hope to represent the 17th District

I recently stopped by the Project Homeless Connect Event at the Hudson Bay High School in Vancouver, to see if I could help. Project Homeless Connect was a one-day event hosted by community leaders and nonprofits designed to provide hospitality, housing, and services in a convenient one-stop model directly to people experiencing homelessness. It was encouraging to see that over 300 people showed up to volunteer their time and energy, and greet people in our community who are living at the margins.

The overwhelming feeling was one of hope, solidarity, and community. Everyone was treated with warmth, respect, and dignity. I went home to a nice house, a good meal, and a warm bed wishing that I could do more, but reassured that our community was doing all it could to address real needs. We were reminded by the officials present that our city is a model of community service and responsibility. We were the first community to come up with a plan to end homelessness.

It would be a privilege to represent you and to be in a position to implement this level of commitment and community service statewide. I've spent most of my life working to bring about social and economic change that empowers people, especially those who are left behind (details...). Through teaching, research, organizing, and community service I’ve encountered many folks from all walks of life who work extremely hard but still struggle to make ends meet, because they can't find decent jobs or affordable housing and health care.

This is unnecessary, and I want to work to change it. People who are struggling or experiencing hardship represent lost talent and energy. Nobody deserves this. Everyone deserves a chance to achieve their dreams. For a variety of reasons, such as a lack of education or support networks, some people's dreams are just out of reach. All that is needed are the opportunities and resources to make their dreams a reality.

My education and experience have taught me that the key to economic growth and security is to overcome hardship and invest in people- through education, job training, affordable housing, and health care (details...). We can’t just walk away from our responsibility to each other and to the common good. In the end, what’s good for people is good for the economy.

Some solutions work better than others. There are many fine examples of people helping other people here in our community. As your Senator, I'd like to identify the very best ideas and practices and implement them statewide. Each of us has gifts, talents, knowledge, and experience to share and contribute to the common good. I hope you will decide to help in whatever way you can.

The job of State Senator is about community service. Government should not be run by people who use their influence to help themselves, their friends, and special interests. It should be run by people who care about other people. So I’ve chosen not to accept contributions from special interests in the primary election. I hope to receive enough contributions from individuals like you to maintain this commitment through the general election.

We need a Senator in Olympia that will represent you: someone who will respond to your phone calls and letters, who will seek your input and listen to your views. A leader who will work on legislation that addresses the issues you care about, and who will show up to vote during legislative sessions. That's their job. If they are not doing it, then replace them with someone who will.

Democracy works best when citizens get engaged in the political process, rather than leaving it to politicians and lobbyists. Citizens have a right and a civic duty to give input into the process and help make the decisions that affect them. During my campaign I'll be conducting voter surveys on this web site and gathering your input on issues and priorities. I'll be meeting regularly with voters at coffee shops around our District, and hope you'll come to voice your concerns and weigh in on the issues that matter to you. 

You know the kind of change we need. You know what works. That change is possible. I’m going to do my part by serving in the Senate. But I need your help. I want to represent your interests and the common good, and I can’t do that without you.

Please let me know about your priorities and concerns. Then let’s work together to make sure you get the change you want to see in Olympia.

Thank you for visiting!

David