Washougal resident Mike Briggs on Friday became the latest candidate to toss his name into a Clark County legislative race, announcing he’ll run for the state representative seat now held by Rep. Brandon Vick, R-Vancouver.
Briggs, a Democrat, will seek the 18th Legislative District’s first House position.
“I really think that we need better representation here in the 18th District,” Briggs said. “I don’t believe we’re getting a balanced representation.”
Briggs is making his first run for public office, though he once served a brief stint on the Washougal Planning Commission after being appointed to the post, he said.
Transportation and education are among Briggs’ top priorities, he said. Both have been major topics in Olympia so far this year.
On transportation, some lawmakers have pushed for a broad statewide revenue package that would pay for a slew of projects and other work and increase the state fuel tax. Briggs said he agrees with the concept of a transportation package, but doesn’t support the plan if it doesn’t include enough investment in Southwest Washington. Earlier versions of the plan have directed relatively little money to this region, prompting criticism from local leaders.
On the Columbia River Crossing, Briggs said he would “emphatically support” Washington’s coming back to the table on the project and moving the proposed Interstate 5 Bridge replacement forward. Washington pulled out last year when the Senate authorized no funding for the CRC. An Oregon-led plan is under consideration in the Oregon Legislature, but many believe it faces slim odds for survival.
Briggs also lamented the partisan rancor he said has prevented progress in Olympia.
“I’m really going to make an effort to break down this gridlock and get people back to the table and talk,” Briggs said.
Briggs, 62, is a retired lumber business professional and U.S. Navy veteran. He has two adult children, and lives in Washougal with his wife. Briggs said he plans to conduct a positive campaign and engage people in all parts of the 18th District, which covers large swaths of north and east Clark County.
“I’m very excited about this,” he said of the chance to run for a legislative seat. “I really want to give something back.”
Vick, 29, was elected to the state House of Representatives in 2012. He works as sales and marketing manager for his family’s landscaping business.
