Citing a three-part platform that emphasizes education, transportation and public safety, Morgan Irwin has launched his bid for the state House of Representatives.
“Washington is a strong and vibrant state that deserves a strong and vibrant government,” he said in a released statement. “We need a government that promotes personal freedoms while protecting the state’s future. As a father of three girls, making sure our communities are safe and that we have an education system second to none are top priorities of mine. And fixing a failing transportation infrastructure not only increases public safety but allows families to spend more time together at home rather than being stuck in a car.”
A seat from the 31st Legislative District will be hotly contested this fall, as longtime incumbent Christopher Hurst recently announced his decision to step away from Olympia politics.
The 31st District – which includes the Enumclaw Plateau, stretches into the valley to include Sumner and takes in Edgewood and a portion of Auburn – will be closely watched. Democrats currently enjoy a slim majority in the House but Republicans see the swing district as an opportunity to help reverse that advantage.
Irwin, who admits to being a newcomer to partisan politics, is running as a Republican.
He enjoys name familiarity in Enumclaw, where his family has lived for generations. Irwin graduated from Enumclaw High School in 2001, earned a degree in 2006 from Washington State University and worked for a time in the financial world. He changed career paths and now serves as a patrol officer for the Seattle Police Department’s South Precinct.
His first foray into electoral politics came in late 2013 when he ran for a seat on the Enumclaw City Council. He was elected but, due to a residency issue, could not assume office. Needing to appoint someone to the vacant seat, the council turned to Irwin who, by that time, met all requirements. In fall 2015, he ran successfully for a two-year unexpired term.
Information about the candidate is available at MorganForWashington.com.
