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Candidate Statement: Bob Iyall for State Senate District 22

Works in Progress asked candidates in all Thurston County races to submit statements, but did not receive responses from all candidates.

 

I’m Bob Iyall, a long time Thurston County resident, Nisqually Tribe elder, and proud candidate for State Senate. I’m a retired, 45-year member, of the Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Union, I’m currently serving as Commissioner at the Port of Olympia, and as CEO of Medicine Creek Enterprise, I am uniquely positioned to bring practical, community-focused leadership to Olympia.

My Vision: A Government That Represents All People with Equitable Representation that works toward a government that reflects the diversity of Washington State and ensures the needs and voices of all residents are represented and heard in policy decisions.

Economic Development & Job Creation:

Support Local Businesses: Leverage my background to foster growth and provide support for local entrepreneurs and small businesses.

Infrastructure Investment: Prioritize infrastructure improvements to create jobs, enhance our community’s connectivity, and support economic growth.

Workforce Development: Invest in programs that enhance skills and training for our workforce, ensuring that residents are prepared for the evolving job market and can access good-paying jobs.

Affordable Housing: Address the growing need for affordable housing by supporting policies that promote the development of accessible and equitable housing solutions for all residents.

Worker Rights & Fair Wages:

Champion Labor Rights: As a retired union member, I understand the importance of fair wages and safe working conditions. I will advocate for policies that protect workers and ensure equitable compensation.

Education & Workforce Training:

Enhance Educational Opportunities: Invest in our schools and vocational training programs to prepare our youth for the jobs of tomorrow and support lifelong learning.

Increase Educational Excellence: Improving education includes increasing funding for schools, supporting teachers with professional development, and implementing balanced accountability measures. This involves using standardized testing and other metrics to assess performance without being overly punitive.

Environmental Stewardship:

Protect Our Natural Resources: Commit to sustainable practices and policies that preserve our environment for future generations, reflecting the values of our Native heritage. Mitigating pollution and creating sustainable maintenance practices to ensure a future of clean water that will sustain marine life.

Salmon Recovery: Advocate for and support comprehensive salmon recovery efforts to restore salmon populations to sustainable levels, recognizing their vital role in our ecosystem and cultural heritage.

Community Engagement & Representation:

Inclusive Representation: Ensure that all voices are heard, including those of underserved and marginalized groups. My approach will be collaborative, seeking input from a diverse range of stakeholders to make informed, equitable decisions.

Transparent Communication: Foster an environment of openness where community members can engage in meaningful dialogue and participate actively in decision-making processes.

Behavioral Health:

Enhance Services: Prioritize funding and support for mental health and substance abuse services to address growing needs and improve overall community well-being.

Reduce Stigma: Work to reduce the stigma associated with behavioral health issues through education and advocacy, ensuring that individuals receive the support they need without fear of judgment.

Health Care & Reproductive Rights:

Access to Health Care: Commit to expanding access to affordable and quality health care for all individuals, ensuring that everyone can receive the medical attention they need.

Sustainability and Efficiency: Include cost control measures, improving access and quality of care, streamline licensing requirements to allow for a greater workforce, and exploring public-private partnerships. Emphasize fiscal responsibility, support regular audits to maintain financial viability, and seek bipartisan solutions to enhance the program.

Protect Reproductive Rights: Defend and support reproductive rights, including access to comprehensive reproductive health services and education, respecting individuals’ autonomy and choices.

My Commitment:

I bring to this campaign a unique blend of experience, dedication, and passion. My career has been devoted to service, as a skilled laborer, business leader and as a public official. My commitment to our community is deep-rooted, devoted to representing ALL people, and I am determined to bring that same commitment to the State Senate.

Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant district. I ask for your support in this journey, and I pledge to work tirelessly to represent our shared values and interests.

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