Name: Mike Chapman
Town: Port Angeles
Party: Democrat
Education: AAS Shoreline College, BA from Northwest University, Master’s from Duquesne University
Employment or business background: Municipal and Federal Law Enforcement Officer 1991-2001
Clallam County Commissioner 2001-2016
Washington State Representative 2017-current
Endorsements: (Please limit the number of endorsements to 3) WA Council of Police & Sheriffs, Washington State Labor Council,Washington Health Care Association
Questions
1. We’ve had an updated revenue forecast for almost a month and we know more about the financial and social impacts of COVID-19. Is it time for the Legislature to have a special session to address budget and other issues?
I have signed on to a bipartisan letter asking the governor to call the Legislature into special session in early August to begin work to solve our budget shortfall and rebuild our economy, especially in our hard hit rural communities. We must also address the COVID-19 impacts and adopt statewide policies that will allow for more testing, access to medical care and provide a framework for the safe and successful re-opening of schools in the fall.
2. Because of Covid-19, the state will lose billions of dollars in revenue over this biennium and next, much more than is in the current rainy day fund. Balancing the budget will mean cuts and/or raising taxes. What are your thoughts on whether to cut spending or raise revenue?
During these challenging times the Legislature must work in a bi-partisan manner and not raise sales, property or small business taxes that directly impact and hurt rural districts like ours. If we roll back our budget to the previous biennial level and use some of our rainy day funds I’m confident we will achieve bi-partisan budget approval for the first time since 2017.
3. If the Legislature has to raise taxes to balance the budget, which segments of the economy should see the increases.
The only increase in taxes that should even be considered would be those that impact the largest corporations that are based in Seattle. No increases in taxes should be considered that would impact economically sensitive rural communities like Grays Harbor. I have not voted for a sales tax increase, property tax increase or small business tax increase during my time serving in the Legislature.
4. Is there a need for policing reform? If so, what are some of the issues that need addressing?
Washington State already has some of the highest police standards in the nation and we have been a leader in effective community policing. I trust our local sheriffs and police chiefs, as well as the hard-working women and men in law enforcement to continue to serve and keep our communities safe day in and day out. I am honored to have been endorsed by the Washington Council of Police & Sheriffs representing front line law enforcement officers. I will work with law enforcement and community leaders to support bi-partisan legislation that will make our communities even safer.
5. What is the most pressing need in your district and what can the Legislature do to address it?
The Legislature must support and help improve our rural economy. I am running for re-election to continue working hard on behalf of the citizens in the 24th Legislative District and improve our quality of life. As Chair of the House Democrats Rural Economic Development Caucus I have a great opportunity to work on issues like small business growth, affordable housing, public infrastructure investments, broadband expansion and workforce training programs at our local colleges. I have the experience and passion to see our area thrive and prosper as we grow local jobs, protect our pristine environment and increase access to health care. I ask for your vote so I can continue to advocate on your behalf in Olympia.
