ISSAQUAH, Wash. — Yet another Democratic candidate has entered the race to become the next governor in Washington state.
State Sen. Mark Mullet announced his candidacy for governor on Thursday morning.
Mullet, D-Issaquah, has represented the 5th Legislative District since 2012. Originally from Tukwila, Mullet served on Issaquah's City Council from 2009-2013.
“There is no candidate for governor at this point focused on the biggest challenges facing our state including affordable housing, reducing homelessness, creating jobs and making neighborhoods safe,” Mullet said in a statement announcing his campaign. “Too many families can’t afford, even on good salaries, the rising cost of living. Too many families are worried about the direction of public safety in our state, which is why we need different leadership in Olympia.”
Mullet joins several other high-profile state Democrats seeking the office, including Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson and Public Lands Commissioner Hilary Franz. Gov. Jay Inslee announced he wouldn't be seeking a fourth term at the beginning of May.
In his campaign announcement, Mullet said he is focused on education issues, affordable housing, ensuring streets and neighborhoods are safer and combating climate change.
“I'm proud to have voted for every bill that enables Washington workers to collectively bargain and form a union, while making it clear that businesses play a key role in our economy and that their tax revenue creates the ability for my wife to earn a living as a public school teacher,” Mullet said. “I’ve played a major role in passing bills to combat climate change, while also making sure we keep our promise to Washington farmers to protect their farms from the higher costs associated with the Climate Commitment Act. And I'm extremely proud of the fact that I’ve voted for and supported every reproductive rights bill that has come before me in the Senate and always stood up for the rights and safety of our LGBTQ community.”