Union Hill Resident Will Challenge State Rep. Larry Springer for District 45 Seat

Republican Jim Thatcher has announced he will challenge State Rep. Larry Springer (D) of Kirkland for legislative position 2 in District 45.

The Union Hill resident is a principal program manager at Microsoft and says he is running to advocate for budget reform and encourage local economic development.

“Our legislators have been gridlocked into four special sessions over the last two years, and their budget proposals have been more on gimmicks and wishful thinking than real reforms and long term sustainability," Thatcher said in a campaign news release. "As taxpayers we should demand better!”

Thatcher said his campaign priorities are implementing spending controls "that meet our priorities without raising taxes," "putting education first," and "encouraging jobs and business development by reducing and simplifying regulations, keeping workers compensation and unemployment insurance affordable, and encouraging private sector investment.”

"Washington is an amazing state. Look at the world class companies that we have here," Thatcher said in the release. "We should expect our state leaders to be world-class as well: leaders who will be open and honest as they work together to solve tough problems. To pay our way, not saddle our kids with huge debts and unsolved messes."

Thatcher and his wife Sarah have seven children and are active in church and community activities, according to the news release.

Springer, a Democrat who last month, is campaigning on the platforms of job creation and restoring funding for higher education. He has been endorsed by Redmond Mayor John Marchione and several other local officials.

So far, Thatcher is the only challenger to file for Springer's seat, according to King County Elections records. Filing week ends Friday, May 18.