Craig Durgan has declared his candidacy against incumbent Kevin Van De Wege for Position 1 of the 24th Legislative District.

Durgan, a 20-year resident of Jefferson County, has filed as a Republican candidate.

He is a retired marine engineer, 28-year union member and a current business owner. He was born and raised in Seattle.

He graduated with honors from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y., where he earned a commission as an ensign in the U.S. Naval Reserve, a Bachelor of Science degree and was licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard as a third mate and third engineer. He worked for 28 years in the maritime industry achieving the rank of chief engineer.

"I don't want your money, I want your vote" is his campaign motto.



Government out of control

"I believe that government at all levels is out of control and is not responsive to the people. We the People is the sovereign in this nation but of late it seems that the bureaucracy feels it is in charge and wanting to control our lives.

"If there is any doubt, just look at the growth in government. Taxes are being raised to support the bloated bureaucracy, completely out of line with our current economic condition. The average person is struggling to pay for escalating food and fuel costs, let alone mortgages that may have escalating rates.

"Add to this the arrogance of government raising our taxes and further refusing to invest in our economy. Where are the jobs we were promised? At the same time the average private-sector wage earnings are now below the average government worker's.

"Instead the bureaucracy is growing and enjoying ever- larger pay and benefits. At the same time more burdensome regulations are being implemented and proposed on the people. Burdensome land-use regulations and higher taxes will kill any kick-start to our economy. We could be in for a very long recovery if we have one at all."