Michael Rutland

Michael Rutland served in the U.S. Air Force from 1974 to 1998. Rutland earned a high school diploma from John Jay High School and a bachelor's degree from the University of Phoenix in 2009.

His career experience includes working as an insurance agent.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’m a retired U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sergeant with 24 years of service, including Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Air Combat Command F-22 Armament Systems Manager; former Boeing Defense and Space leader on the F-22 Program with four decades of management and leadership experience. I have a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and graduated magna cum laude from the University of Phoenix.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

AFFORDABILITY

Washington is the fifth most expensive state in the nation for residents. We need to stop the tax and spend madness in Olympia and reign in and eliminate taxes that are burdening our families and communities.EDUCATION

Washington’s K-12 education system has slipped to 31st in the nation. 71% of Washington eighth graders aren’t proficient in math and 69% aren’t proficient in reading. We need Olympia out of the classroom and give parents and educators the resources they need to prepare our children for success.PUBLIC SAFETY

Law enforcement needs to feel we have their backs. We need to reward good solid policing and root out bad policing. We need to restore trust between law enforcement and the people of our communities to establish safer and secure neighborhoods

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am very passionate about transparency and accountability. Washingtonians have the right to know exactly where and how their tax dollars are being spent. Additionally, I want to bring common sense to Olympia because Washington deserves better. The current tax and spend climate in Olympia is out of control. Washington is becoming unaffordable forcing Washingtonians to move out of the state.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

KCGOP, 30th LD Republicans, State Sen Phil Fortunato, Former State Senator Mark Milosia