For the Reporter

Independent Democrat Lane Walthers of Enumclaw has announced that he is running for the state House of Representatives to replace the retiring Christopher Hurst.

Hurst, an Independent Democrat, announced his decision not to run for re-election Wednesday after serving the 31st Legislative District for 20 years. Hurst will complete his term and remain in office until the new member is sworn in in January, and will continue to work for the district until his term expires.

Phil Fortunato, a Republican from Auburn, announced in February his candidacy for the 31st District representative seat.

A career firefighter, Walthers works for East Pierce Fire & Rescue.

Public service is Lane’s passion.

“I plan to take my experience from public service to Olympia to work for public safety, education, a strong economy and jobs,” he said. “Our overcrowded roads are imperiling our economy and quality of life. We need infrastructure in place before development to protect our economy and to keep the 31st Legislative District a great place to raise our families.”

Lane also plans to work in a bi-partisan way to find solutions that both parties can agree on.

“People are tired of the political climate in America today,” he said. “As Americans, we should not be so polarized, and I am running as an Independent Democrat to change that culture and bring folks together.”

Lane has the support of Hurst.

“Lane will make a great state representative. We are both from the field of public safety, and I know how much he will influence the process in Olympia,” Hurst said. “Lane is a problem solver and has excellent people skills. He is a good listener and a hard worker. I am confident Lane will win this race.”

Lane is married to Rhonda, his wife of 36 years, and has a daughter, Sarah, who lives in Enumclaw.