Introductory statements from 32nd Legislative District candidates Hayden and Ryu

By Evan Smith

Incumbent Democratic 32nd District State Rep. Cindy Ryu faces Republican challenger Randy Hayden in the Aug. 7 primary election.

With no other candidates on the top-two primary ballot, both are certain to advance to the Nov. 6 general election.

Ryu is seeking a second two-year term in the Legislature.

The District includes Shoreline, part of northwest Seattle, Lynnwood, part of Mountlake Terrace, Woodway, south Edmonds and nearby unincorporated areas of southwest Snohomish County,

Here are introductory statements from the two candidates:

Randy Hayden

“I am a business owner, running a construction company for the last 15 years. Knowing how to meet a tight budget, my company has thrived even through this recession. As a single parent of two children during the 90's, I know the struggles parents face in caring for and educating their children. I would like to see decisions regarding education restored to the local school districts. Having spent the last ten years helping the homeless, less fortunate and the addicted, I see firsthand where wasted money deprives the needy. Being on the Snohomish County Alcohol and Drug Advisory Board, I've seen cuts that affect those who need help the most. I will work with our State Auditor to cut wasteful and overlapped programs. I have no problem crossing party lines to accomplish effective legislation that benefits our state. Good government balances compassion with responsibility.”

Cindy Ryu

“It is a privilege representing the citizens of Woodway, Shoreline, and south Edmonds in Olympia.  32nd Legislative District is gaining Lynnwood and parts of Mountlake Terrace and Seattle.  Over the past three decades, my husband Cody and our two grown daughters and teenaged son have either lived, attended schools, shopped, or visited friends in all of these areas and I look forward to meeting many of you.

“A product of public schools, small business owner, and former mayor, my priorities are to amply fund education, and protect consumers, neighborhoods and the environment while ensuring our safety.

“I introduced bills to create jobs and economic opportunity. I garnered bipartisan support to fund mortgage-lending fraud prosecution and allow air rescue evacuation services.  The House unanimously passed my bill, which allows local cities and towns to establish 20-mph speed zones without expensive studies.

“Please visit my website www.CindyRyu.org or contact me at FriendsForCindyRyu@yahoo.com.“

Evan Smith can be reached at schsmith@frontier.com.