Jesse Hegstrom Oakey to challenge Dent in 13th

Jesse Hegstrom Oakey, a 2015 graduate in political science from Central Washington University, will challenge Tom Dent for a seat in the State Legislature.

"We deserve representatives who listen to all their constituencies," said Hegstrom Oakey, 27, a Democrat. "What choice do you have if your representative runs unopposed, that's no choice at all. Politicians should have to work for it, it should be hard. No candidate for office should take the voters for granted." Hegstrom Oakey believes that voters are fed up with divisive partisanship. "I'm running as a Democrat, but I want to represent Republicans and independents in this district as well."

Jesse's legislative priorities include strengthening K-12 education, investing in vocational training and ensuring affordable higher education, housing, and medical care for Washingtonians. "We have a growing population in this district, and all of these issues are interconnected," said Hegstrom Oakey. "We need to bring decent jobs to this side of the mountains so we can continue to support ourselves and our families here."

Jesse was recruited to run by a regretful Trump voter and an Afghan war vet.

"Americans do better when they have choices, which is why I'm going to work hard to make sure they have a real choice in November," said Hegstrom Oakey. "If you are disappointed in the status quo, then send me to Olympia. Send a millennial."