Daryl Daugs is a Democrat from Bremerton and a long-time resident of the 35th Legislative District. His three highest priorities will be support for concerns of working families, helping create a clean environment and working to protect children. "Beyond those specific issues lays a desire for public service," he said. He thinks that is something to be embraced, not shunned. "We don't need government off our backs, we need government on our side," he said.

A former businessman, Daugs is now the Lead Organizer for the foster parents union. He and his wife Leslie are former foster parents.

"I want to be a state representative for the same reason that Leslie and I became foster parents, for the same reason that I have made 4 trips to New Orleans since Hurricane Katrina to help families rebuild their lives," Daugs said. "I have a responsibility to serve others. I spent the first ten years of my adult life working in the business world. Most of those early years were focused on making money and personally getting ahead. I found that ultimately, just serving myself was not enough. I think we have a responsibility to serve and work for each other."

That will start with working families, said Daugs, 45.

"We need to have Democrats in Olympia who know that the foundation of our party is families," said Daugs. "These are people who work hard, pay their taxes, get their kids to school, support their communities and try every day to build a better life for their children and future generations."

Passion for families comes naturally to Daugs.

"There isn't any person running for office in America that is going to tell you they don't support families or the environment, Daugs said. "However, do they have a track record of personally working with families who are struggling? Do they have a history of giving families a voice in government? I grew up the son of a small town pastor and a nurse. I grew up fishing and camping in Washington State. I come from a family tradition of service and love of the land we live in and have continued that tradition in my life."

Saying "I am blessed every day by the life I have," he wants to help build that life for others.

"Every child should have access to a good public education," he said. "Every family should have adequate health care. Every person should live in a safe environment. Absolutely no child should have to suffer abuse and neglect. Every parent should be able to live a life where they can love, nurture and provide for those they love."

Daugs said he brings a unique set of qualities to the job. He has been employed by large companies, ran his own insurance business and directed a state agency to recruit and support foster parents.

"I have signed both sides of the paycheck," he said. I have seen the struggles from each perspective. I've been in the people business all my life and that's the most valuable business experience to bring to public service."

Daugs has already put together a campaign team and believes his message of public service and support for families will serve the district well.

"I believe I can be part of a new generation of leaders who can help move this state forward," he said. "These are challenging times. But great challenges present great opportunities to those who have the vision to see them and the courage to embrace them"