Election 2018: State Representative 13th District, Position 1 candidates
Tom Dent
Age: 68
Occupation: Professional pilot/rancher
Education: Othello High School/Big Bend Community College
College: Various aviation related schools and education opportunities.
Position running for: State Representative 13th District, Position 1
Please list any previous government or management experience: 40 years self-employment, owner of a successful flying business, owner of a livestock/hay ranch, currently serving my second term as state representative. Thirty plus years involved in the political process. Nine plus years as the chair of the Grant County Republican Central Committee.
Why are you running? I believe we need leaders with life experience and the maturity to understand the needs of society, and how to address these needs with common sense solutions. I believe politics is relationships that are built on respect. Respectful relationships are paramount for success in the political environment.
What are your immediate goals for the position if elected? To continue the path I have set for improving the lives of our citizens and protecting all of us from government overreach. As listed below, I currently serve as the ranking member on the Early Learning and Human Services Committee serving the needs of our young people, children's mental health, foster care, early learning issues. Assistant ranking on Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee to protect and promote agriculture, protect our water rights and all natural resources. I am co-chair of the Wildfire Caucus, co-chair of the Kids Caucus, active member of the Aviation Caucus, active member of the Business Caucus. Serve on the new Oversight Committee for the Department of Children, Youth and Families. Co-chair (for the) Task Force on Pesticides. Co-chair (for the) Early Achievers Committee. Caucus member on the Early Learning Advisory Council.
What are your long-term goals for the position if elected? Continue the work I have begun. The new department of Children, Youth and Families is a priority for the foster care and childcare community. I am very involved and focused to see this department succeed. Mental health is a major issue in our state. I am committed to continuing to look for solutions to this serious issue. Continuing the work of the caucuses I serve on as well as any issues that will have an effect on the people of the 13th District and the state. Holding this position is an honor and is an opportunity to make a difference in our lives and the lives of our children and grandchildren, our children are the future!
Note: Candidate Jesse Hegstrom Oakey, D-Ellensburg, did not return a candidate questionnaire.