This isn't exactly a vote of confidence in Jean Marie Christenson, who jumped into the race to run against incumbent Rep. Jim McCune, R-Graham, in 2006. The Democrats couldn't find a candidate back then, so they let her run and she gave him a scare by getting more total votes in the closed Democratic primary than McCune got in the closed Republican primary.

But now, the House Democrats have found their guy.

Chuck Collins, owner of Allied Electric in Bellevue (moving to Yelm), was recruited by Rep. Jeff Morris, D-Mount Vernon, who is part of House leadership. Obviously, House Speaker Frank Chopp and the rest of the Democratic leadership team figure Collins will have a better shot at unseating McCune in the 2nd Legislative District.

They've promised him money and good campaign staffers. He's the annointed one. Not her.

Maybe the House Democrats were afraid Christenson's being a "Ram-ster" would be a liability in a campaign. She is a student of the Ramtha School of Enlightment, which follows the teachings of a 35,000-year-old warrior, channeled by J.Z. Knight.

Notwithstanding that, her platform sounded awfully Democratic last time around. And Christenson is not bowing out. She got a late start in 2006, but she's been campaigning for nearly 2 years.

Here is Collins' announcement:

For Immediate Release
April 24, 2008

Collins Announces Bid for State Representative

(Yelm) Chuck Collins announced today that he will seek election to the Washington State House of Representatives Position Number 1 in the 2nd Legislative District. Collins, a Democrat hopes to oust Republican incumbent James McCune.

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“I want to put my energy, experience, and enthusiasm to work for the people of the 2nd District,” said Collins. “We have serious issues that aren’t being addressed and it’s time for new leadership and fresh ideas in Olympia. I’ve never been afraid of hard work and I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and tackle the difficult issues facing our district and state.”

Collins says he’ll focus on “the three E’s – education, the economy, and the environment” if elected to the Legislature.

On the issue of education, Collins says that he’ll focus on maintaining tough academic standards, increased accountability, and adequate funding. “Our kids need to be prepared for the jobs of tomorrow and that requires a commitment by parents, students, teachers, administrators, and the Legislature,” said Collins.

“All of us have to step up to the challenge to insure educational success.” Collins will push for better access to higher education and vocational and technical training and retraining. “A key component to educational success is what happens after high school,” said Collins.

“We have to address the affordability of college and expand vocational and technical training programs to create a highly skilled workforce.”

As a small business owner, Chuck Collins believes he has a unique perspective on creating jobs and growing our economy. “Energy prices, health care costs, and the national economic slowdown are hurting local businesses. There are many innovative ways to help create jobs and assist small businesses. I support offering incentives for businesses to conserve electricity and reduce their dependency on gasoline and diesel fuel. Health care costs for employers can be reduced by harnessing the bulk-buying power of consumers through insurance purchasing pools. We can also strengthen our local economy by expanding our high tech, aerospace, organic agriculture, and green technology sectors,” said Collins.

Chuck Collins has deep ties to the environment. He is a life-long sportsman, a former U.S. Forest Service firefighter, ranger, and Department of Energy Program Manager. Collins currently provides strategic consulting and advice to the electric power industry. “We must protect our hunting and fishing heritage by restoring habitat and insuring access to recreational opportunities. At the same time, we need to preserve our family farms and the character of our communities by seeking out best-practices for sustainable growth,” said Collins.
Chuck Collins is a resident of Yelm and is active in many business and charitable organizations. He has been active as a youth sports coach and a frequent participant in our schools. He has received numerous awards and recognitions for his accomplishments, including the “2005 Power Player Award” and the 2006 “Earth Hero” Award. He is a graduate of the University of Washington’s Environmental Sciences Program and has a Minor in Physics.

Contact: Chuck Collins
(360) 894-1427
chuck@chuckcollins2008.org