State senator’s retirement spurs local campaigns

Published 12:00 pm Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Within two weeks of Sen. Jim Hargrove’s announcement to retire from the floor of the Senate, Rep. Kevin Van De Wege announced his campaign for the vacated position as the 24th Legislative District state senator.

“I’m excited to announce my candidacy to the state Senate,” Van De Wege said. “It’s an opportunity to keep working on creating family wage jobs, championing our public schools and working to keep improving the quality of life for every resident on the peninsula.”

Van De Wege’s announcement on March 21 was echoed by Clallam County Commissioner Mike Chapman and his announcement to run for the 24th Legislative District House of Representatives.

“I am running for the state House of Representatives to be a passionate advocate for those who need it most: the disadvantaged, the poor, the sick, the unemployed, the veterans who so bravely served our country, those struggling with mental illness and substance addiction and everyone else facing tough times,” Chapman said.

Democrats Van De Wege and Chapman both live on the Olympic Peninsula. Van De Wege resides in Sequim with his wife and their two children. Similarly, Chapman lives in neighboring Port Angeles along with his wife and two children.

Aside from their current political roles, shared appreciation for the Olympic Peninsula and family, Van De Wege and Chapman each have professional experience rooted in public service.

In addition to holding his position with the House Democratic Caucus since 2010, Van De Wege is a lieutenant with Clallam County Fire District 3.

Van De Wege was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2006 and is in his fifth term. In the House, he serves on the Agriculture and Natural Resource Committee, Health Care Committee, Rules Committee and is a member of the Commerce and Gaming Committee.

Serving his fourth term on the Board of Clallam County Commissioners, Chapman’s experience stems as a past law enforcement officer and U.S. Customs inspector. His upbringing also is reflected in his career path and overall drive.

“I grew up in a family devastated by alcoholism, drug addiction and poverty, raised by my single mother after my dad died,” he said.

Determined to live a different life, Chapman was the first member of his family to attend college and he earned a master’s degree from Duquesne University.

“Because of my background, I know how hard life can be, so I’m basing my campaign around creating more opportunities and support for the communities, families and businesses of the Olympic Peninsula,” he said.

The 24th Legislative District is among 49 districts in Washington and represents the Olympic Peninsula including Sequim, Port Angeles, Port Townsend, Forks, Hoquiam, Ocean Shores, Elma and McCleary.