Introductory statements from State Rep. Ruth Kagi, Republican challenger

Incumbent 32nd District State Rep. Ruth Kagi faces Republican challenger Alvin Rutledge on the Aug. 5 primary ballot, with both certain to qualify for the November general-election ballot.

The 32nd Legislative District includes Lynnwood, Woodway and nearby unincorporated areas of southwest Snohomish County, parts of Edmonds and Mountlake Terrace, all of Shoreline and part of northwest Seattle.

Here are introductory statements from the two candidates, in the order the names will appear on the primary ballot:

32nd DISTRICT STATE REPRESENTATIVE Pos. 2

Ruth Kagi (Prefers Democratic Party)

My primary focus in the legislature is on education, including early-childhood education, and human services. As chair of the Early Learning and Human Services Committee, I am working to expand high quality early learning opportunities for young children so they can get to school ready to succeed.

The state’s safety net must provide a hand up to families, and prevent homelessness. Children in foster care deserve safe, nurturing homes and education opportunities. In the next session, these critical services must be maintained as we meet our K-12 funding obligation. Additional revenues will be required to do so.

We must invest in our children and find the revenues necessary to fully fund basic education without cutting other important social services.

Alvin A. Rutledge (Prefers Republican Party)

Education: Bishop Blanchet High School, Everett Community College;

Occupation: Retired;

Experience: Friends of Athletic Fields, King County Board of Directors; Several community organizations;

Challenging times for Legislature in Senate/House negotiations; operating budget, capital budget investments;

I do not support imposing additional taxes on our citizens.

Focused on my prioritized issues:

• health care;

• education, housing;

• keeping communities safe;

• 1 percent for wounded warriors;