Washougal Mayor David Stuebe announced Thursday that he is running as a Republican for the 17th Legislative District, Position 2, seat in state House of Representatives.
The seat is currently held by Rep. Paul Harris, R-Vancouver, who is running for the state Senate in the 17th District. Republican Sen. Lynda Wilson, the current state senator in the 17th District, said earlier this year she will not seek reelection.
Stuebe’s campaign will focus on public safety, affordable housing and the development of stronger communities in Southwest Washington, according to a news release.
“As Washougal’s mayor, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges facing our community,” Stuebe said in the news release. “Now, I’m ready to take that experience to Olympia and work tirelessly to address these issues at the state level. I have always finished what I started and intend to remain mayor of Washougal.”
Stuebe was appointed to the Washougal City Council in March 2021 and then elected and named mayor pro tem in November 2021. He was appointed mayor by the city council in September 2022, replacing Rochelle Ramos, who moved out of state.
A retired colonel, Stuebe served in U.S. Marine Corps — active duty and reserves — for 30 years. He conducted a variety of humanitarian projects, coalition training and combat operations around the world in addition to holding several large commands. He has also worked in the pharmaceutical and health care industries for more than 20 years, holding leadership and management positions.
“Having served our nation in the Marine Corps for decades, I understand the importance of safety, security, and unity,” Stuebe said.
Throughout his tenure as mayor, Stuebe prioritized public safety initiatives that bolstered law enforcement resources, promoted community policing efforts and enhanced emergency response capabilities.
Stuebe has lived in Washougal since 2007. He graduated from the University of Redlands in California with a degree in political science.
Editor’s note: The headline has been updated to reflect that Stuebe is running for Paul Harris’ state House seat.
