Marko Liias
State Representative | 21st District | Democrat
Blog
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A strong voice for South County
Posted Jul 21 at 2 PM
Rep. Marko Liias will not seek County Council appointment
Edmonds Democrat supports Lynnwood Councilmember Stephanie Wright
Rep. Marko Liias (D-Edmonds) announced today that he would not seek appointment to the Snohomish County Council seat vacated by Edmonds Mayor Mike Cooper.
“I appreciate all the interest and encouragement from throughout the community and in the media, but I already have a job that I love as our state representative. It is an honor to serve in Olympia, and I intend to continue my work in the Legislature.”
Rep. Liias has been the subject of media speculation since Cooper’s entry into the appointment process for Edmonds mayor. Liias addressed the speculation:
“I am flattered to be considered for this position, but my number one priority has always been ensuring that our community has a strong voice in Olympia. I look forward to continuing my work as an advocate for better schools, services for our seniors, and putting people back to work.”
Rep. Liias did announce his support for Lynnwood City Council Vice President Stephanie Wright as she seeks appointment to the County Council.
“I have known Stephanie for nearly a decade, and she is the right person for this important job. We need a county councilmember that can bring a collaborative spirit to the County Council, and Stephanie’s work in Lynnwood speaks to her strengths as a consensus-builder and leader.”
Rep. Liias has served as state representative since 2008, after two years on the Mukilteo City Council. The County Council unanimously appointed him to the Legislature in January 2008, after he was selected as the number one choice of the Democratic Party.
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Unemployment down and business welcome
Posted Jul 15 at 4 PM
Two pieces of good economic news were announced this week, as the unemployment rate dropped for the third straight month and a new business ranking gives Washington strong marks.
June's unemployment rate is the lowest in over a year and shows that the private sector added jobs in several sectors, including manufacturing. The state's investments in infrastructure are reflected in the increases in private sector construction jobs as well.
I was proud to vote to put nearly 100,000 people back to work through our state's transportation and construction budgets, and these numbers show our approach is working.
The other good piece of news was the new CNBC rankings for "America's Top States for Business" which ranked Washington as the #15 state for business. Our state far out ranked our neighboring states, Oregon (#23), Idaho (#26), California (#32), Montana (#36), and Alaska (#50).
While we can always do more to help struggling businesses survive in this tough economy, this is good news. I will continue to stand up for small businesses and help them stay healthy and strong employing our friends and neighbors.
For more information on the new unemployment numbers, click here.
For more information on the CNBC rankings, click here.
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Keeping our community safe
Posted Jun 10 at 2 AM
I am honored to have the support of the Washington Council of Police and Sheriffs in my reelection campaign. The brave men and women that keep us safe are some of the true heroes in our community.
Since my time on the Mukilteo City Council, I have been an advocate for ensuring that our police officers receive the resources and support they need to keep our community safe.
As a state representative, I was proud to stand with the Washington State Patrol and other public safety advocates to pass legislation to protect emergency workers. By increasing penalties for speeding in emergency zones and toughening penalties for drivers that endanger emergency workers, we can ensure that our first responders can safely respond to roadside emergencies.
I was also a proud supporter of measures to toughen bail requirements and ensure that dangerous criminals aren't let out prematurely. Standing with law enforcement officers across the state, the Legislature took action to prevent another tragedy like Lakewood from happening again.
I am proud to stand with our police and sheriffs, and I am honored to have them standing with me as I seek reelection.
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Working together for clean air and water
Posted May 29 at 4 AM
I am proud to announce that both the Sierra Club and Washington Conservation Voters have endorsed my reelection!
It has been a privilege to work with these great organizations to protect the quality of life we enjoy in Washington.
Together, we have worked to protect the clean air that provides those breath-taking mountain views. We have fought for clean water, so that our children can swim in the same blue waters of Puget Sound that we have.
Not every issue has been easy, and we still have work to do. There is still a coal plant in our state that is receiving a tax break even as it spews pollution into our air.
Experts tell us that a silent oil spill is taking place around us as stormwater runoff washes oil and other pollution into our streams, rivers and eventually, Puget Sound.
That is why I am so proud to have the support of such great organizations, and the thousands of friends and neighbors that make these groups so strong.
Together, we can make sure that our Evergreen State lives up to its name!
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Voice of Working Families
Posted May 16 at 2 PM
This weekend, the Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO, representing over 400,000 working families in our state, added their support to our campaign!
Our state is lucky to have a strong labor community, fighting for family wage jobs, safe workplaces and open and transparent government.
Throughout my three sessions in Olympia, it has been a privilege to partner with working families to fight for progressive change. As we have confronted the economic crisis together, we have protected unemployed workers, and built the foundation for economic recovery and a better future.
To see my full list endorsements, click on the "Endorsements" tab on the left side of this page.
To add your name to the list, click here!
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Facebook coming to Seattle
Posted May 06 at 1 PM
Our state's innovation strategy received a strong endorsement this week as Facebook announced a new Seattle office is opening this summer!
Facebook has become one of the leaders in 21st century social networking and implementation of Web 2.0 technology.
Even more encouraging is the strong endorsement that the company gives to our region! Facebook has recognized that in order to meet the tremendous growth in membership, they need new talent. And our region is a place to find that talent.
Here is a great quote from the Facebook press release:
"As we grow to meet these challenges, we need to continue to attract the smartest, most talented technologists on the Internet. Seattle has a strong history of innovation and is home to thousands of talented technical people who we want to help us solve the challenges of designing and building the next generation of Facebook." (emphasis added)
A cornerstone of our economic recovery is sustaining our state's innovation economy. I was pleased to support fair tax treatment for software companies this year, and our revenue package did not include tax increases for software or research and development. These decisions will help ensure that we remain a leader in innovation.
Facebook joins a community of excellence in Seattle, from Amazon.com to Microsoft to the host of forward-looking startups in the region. Together these innovators have created thousands of jobs and create billions in economic development for our state.
Read more about the Facebook announcement here
TechCrunch also coming to Seattle
List of some great Seattle-based startups
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Innovation works!
Posted Apr 29 at 9 PM
Washington companies are literally stopping cancer! Seattle-based Dendreon has received national headlines this week as the FDA approved the first ever cancer vaccine.
Provenge is a new vaccine designed to help fight prostate cancer by activating the patient's own immune system to figth the cancer. Dendreon has been working for 18 years to develop this new treatment, and the company is expected to make billions of dollars in the next decade.
Our innovation economy is working. Washington state has become a hub of research and development in the life sciences. Leaders in our community are literally saving lives with new medicines and new breakthroughs.
This session, I joined the biotech industry in fighting a proposal to raise taxes on research and development. As the House leader, I brought together a coalition of my colleagues to table the proposal.
Our economic recovery depends on the strength of our region's innovators, from biotech to software to the aerospace industry. I will continue to stand up for them!
Click here for the full story.
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Standing up for small business
Posted Apr 03 at 4 AM
This week, I was proud to cosponsor the "Small Business Taxpayer Bill of Rights" and continue my bipartisan approach to supporting small businesses.
We’re relying on small businesses and their jobs to lead us out of the recession. By enacting this bill of rights, we’d be taking a huge step forward in helping owners focus on their businesses.
The small business bill would require state agencies to provide industry-specific information on the state taxes to owners when they register with the state. The bill would also waive penalties and interest for businesses that unintentionally break the rules.
Washington is a great place to work and do business, but there is more we can be doing. Businesses want to play by the rules and these measures will signal that the state wants to help them succeed, become part of their community, and provide good jobs.
This is the latest bill that I have sponsored to help our local small businesses. Last December, I held a business roundtable and heard very clearly that small businesses struggle with regulatory requirements and need better guidance.
While the bill is being introduced during the legislative special session, I'm hopeful that the bipartisan support will help it get consideration this year. Rep. Tom Campbell, a Republican from Yelm, is the prime sponsor of the bill.
People at home want us working together to improve the economy and helping create jobs. With unemployment close to ten percent, this is a common-sense way to break down some red tape small businesses face.
The small business taxpayer bill of rights is House Bill 3217, and the current special session is scheduled to expire on April 13.
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Health Care Victory
Posted Mar 25 at 1 PM
The passage of historic health care reform legislation is a victory for every Washingtonian! From small business owners that will receive new tax credits to everyday consumers that will receive better care at lower cost, this new law could not come at a better time.
Already, the forces of division and bitter partisanship are marshaling to destroy the progress that we have made together. Under the guise of the 10th amendment, they would seek to undo the most cherished tenet of our constitution, equal protection under the law.
Every person in our state deserves access to quality, affordable health care. Without the reforms that just passed into law, health insurance companies and special interests would continue to profit from an inefficient system.
Without the reforms, the emergency room would remain the only option for millions of our fellow citizens, at tremendous cost to the rest of us. Ensuring access to low-cost preventive care means that more families will have a family doctor to turn to, before the emergency room.
These reforms are critical to our community, and we cannot allow the voices of a few critics and special interests to undermine reform for the whole nation.
For the youngest, there are immediate protections against preexisting condition limits. For those in their 20s, the new law means a young person can stay on their parent's plan longer.
For those that are middle-aged and middle class, there are tax credits for businesses and individuals to help everyone afford health insurance.
For those that are at retirement, there is a new reinsurance option to help employers extend care to early retirees. And for seniors already on Medicare, the new law will guarantee a true prescription drug benefit.
And finally, here in Washington, the new law will help our state continue to maintain the Basic Health Plan and our Apple Care for Kids, two examples of public plans that provide high quality care at very low cost.
This is real reform for our country, but it will mean real benefits for our community.
For more information on what is included in the new health care reform law, click here.
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Save our Bus!
Posted Mar 08 at 4 AM
One of the most heart-breaking effects of this recession has been the impacts on seniors and the disabled. The latest bad news has been the cuts to bus service at Community Transit.
Nearly 40% of the people in our community don't drive, and they depend on transit service to stay mobile. For seniors and the disabled, good bus service is a lifeline that guarantees access to doctor's appointments and other necessities.
In January, I introduced a bill to give Community Transit some more finance tools to help survive the loss of sales tax dollars caused by the recession. The bill did not make it out of the House.
Well, on Friday, I tried again! This time, I offered an amendment to a Senate bill that would give Community Transit the lifeline they need.
I am hopeful that the Senate will agree to my amendment, and give our community a chance to support this vital public service.
For more information, or to contact your state legislators, visit this great advocacy site!
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Politicians aren't special
Posted Jan 30 at 1 AM
Today, I cosponsored a proposed constitutional amendment to limit my own pay in this tough economy. I do not believe that I should be treated any differently than other public servants.
In the 1990s, our state approved a constitutional amendment to allow a citizen commission to set the salary of state elected officials. This was a smart decision to put our salary decisions in independent hands.
Since the constitutional amendment was passed, legislators have not had control over their salary. This means that even in a recession like this one, the commission could still approve an increase.
I think we need to be clear: we deserve equal treatment to every other state employee.
The amendment I cosponsored today would guarantee that whenever there is a general salary freeze on state salaries, legislator salaries would also be frozen.
We all feel the effects of this recession, and we all need to do our part to get the state moving again. This is one tiny step, but I want to walk the walk, not just talk the talk.
You can find out more about the details at the Legislature's website.
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Help for Haiti
Posted Jan 16 at 3 PM
We have all watched with shock and horror as the small island nation of Haiti was rocked by a earthquake. The devastation was magnified by the poverty that already gripped this small country.
Now, it is time for us to help.
Even in the midst of our own economic hardship, we cannot forget the bonds of our common humanity. We must all care for one another, especially in the hour of maximum need.
I have posted a link on the front page for you to visit, and it is listed below as well.
Thanks for your compassion.
Best,
Marko
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Fundraising Freeze in Effect
Posted Dec 10 at 10 PM
As of 11:59pm on Thursday, December 10, 2009, Liias for Legislature can no longer solicit or accept contributions. State law prohibits contributions during the legislative session and in the thirty days prior to the start of the session.
Any contributions that do not meet this timeline will be returned with our sincere thanks.
Thank you all for your support and generosity to my reelection campaign, I look forward to victory in 2010!
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Election 2009 Information
Posted Nov 03 at 1 AM
Make your voice heard! Here are the two ballot drop-off locations in our community:
Mukilteo Library, 4675 Harbour Pointe Blvd, Mukilteo
Lynnwood Library, 19200 44th Ave W, Lynnwood
Both drop-off locations will be open from 7am to 8pm on Election Day.
Here is a link to the online voter's pamphlet.
Snohomish County election results will be available online beginning shortly after 8pm
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The Future of Aerospace
Posted Nov 01 at 1 PM
I am disappointed with Boeing’s decision to locate a second 787 line in South Carolina rather than in Everett. Wednesday’s announcement dashed hopes across the Puget Sound region of more job creation in one of our top industries.
However, Snohomish County remains a global leader in aerospace, with tens of thousands of family-wage jobs at dozens of companies. Our workforce is top notch because Washington has long invested in education and training for aerospace careers.
This decision is a wake-up call to reexamine how we attract and retain businesses, and I will fight to ensure that our state is doing all it can to remain competitive in the future.
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Good Economic News
Posted Sep 10 at 4 AM
After months of challenge, our state's economy is on the road to recovery. Eight months ago, our state's economy was on the brink of collapse. After decisive action by state and national leaders, we have stopped runaway unemployment and a synchronized global recovery is underway.
Here is a sample of quotes from state and national economic leaders:
"You know, it all adds up to this -- in my view, at least: The Recovery Act has played a significant role in changing the trajectory of our economy, and changing the conversation about the economy in this country. Instead of talking about the beginning of a depression, we're talking about the end of a recession -- eight months after taking office."
--Vice President Joe Biden, read more here
"In fact, something unprecedented is happening: We are seeing a synchronized global recovery under way."
--State Economist Arun Raha, read more here
"Unlike in the 1930s, when policy was largely passive and political divisions made international economic and financial cooperation difficult, during the past year monetary, fiscal, and financial policies around the world have been aggressive and complementary. Without these speedy and forceful actions, last October's panic would likely have continued to intensify, more major financial firms would have failed, and the entire global financial system would have been at serious risk."
--Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke, read more here
The Washington State Economic Recovery Agenda:
This past session, the Legislature took decisive action to create jobs and extend unemployment benefits to struggling families. These actions have helped restart the economy and stop runaway unemployment.
--Boosting unemployment benefits (HB 1906)
--50,000 jobs created by the Transportation Budget (SB 5352)
--30,000 jobs created by the Capital Budget (HB 1216)
--10,000 long-term jobs created by the Evergreen Jobs Act (HB 2227)
--3,500 jobs created by the Transportation Stimulus Bill (HB 1978)
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Strong Voting Record
Posted Jul 22 at 5 PM
Once again, I received strong marks for my voting record, this time from the Washington State Labor Council.
I am proud to say that I received the second-highest rating on my voting record. This brings my lifetime labor voting record to 94%, which in my school career was an A!
Every year, the Labor Council prepares priorities that represent the interests of Washington's working families. They rate legislators on their support for this agenda.
The working families of our community can count on having a voice in Olympia that speaks out for them. Whether its the rights of injured workers, the health care needs of our kids, or the right to organize, I will always be there for you.
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Business Champion (Again!)
Posted Jun 04 at 6 PM
I am honored to have been recognized as a Business Champion for the second year in a row by the Everett Area, South Snohomish and Monroe Chambers of Commerce! As someone that helped start a small business, I know how tough it is to navigate the rules and regulations.
As someone that lost that same business in this economic collapse, I know the pain that comes from watching your life's work crumbling in front of you.
I look forward to working with small businesses throughout our community to get the economy restarted, and get people back to work. Thanks again for the honor!
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Fighting for students and families
Posted Apr 23 at 4 AM
Today, I was proud to lead the fight against an excessive and ill-conceived plan to raise tuition on our state's college students by nearly 30%. This reckless policy will cost Washington's students and families nearly $2,000 by the end of 2011.
As the youngest member of the Legislature, I rallied my colleagues and ensured that the bill passed with the minimum votes necessary to pass the House, 50-47. While it was a defeat for students, it was a victory for accountability and transparency.
Thanks to key amendments, our state's higher education institutions will have to open their books and be more accountable to our Legislature. As Washington's students pay more, it will no longer be acceptable for administrators to collect larger and larger salaries, while producing little value for our students.
I wish the outcome were different, but in the weeks and months to come, I will continue to stand up for the next generation of leaders in our state. This is not the change we hoped for, and it is not the progressive leadership we demand.
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Virtual Town Hall
Posted Apr 05 at 5 AM
Should the Legislature raise taxes? Should we fund education or health care? What are your priorities for our state budget?
I will be asking these questions and more this Tuesday, April 7th, during a virtual Town Hall on taxes and the budget. If you live in the 21st District and have a landline, you should receive a call at 6:00pm. The Town Hall will take place over the phone and it will last one hour.
If you don't have a landline, or you don't receive our call, you can call in and participate. Visit this link for more information!
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Now Showing: Inside Olympia
Posted Mar 14 at 2 AM
Marko appeared on this week's episode of "Inside Olympia" to talk about the budget and other big issues in the Legislature.
The show appears on TVW and is hosted by Austin Jenkins of NPR. House Minority Floor Leader Doug Ericksen (R-Ferndale) also appeared to give a Republican perspective on the issues.
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Sign up for text message updates!
Posted Feb 22 at 6 PM
I have just set up a new text messaging campaign to keep you up to date on all my campaign events for the 2010 election cycle!
This list will be used to notify you of fundraisers, kickoffs, campaign events, and most importantly--when and how to VOTE!
You will receive on average one text message per month, so don't worry about text spamming...
Group text messaging by Tatango.
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Response to Boeing Layoff Announcement
Posted Jan 09 at 4 PM
"The layoffs announced by today by Boeing will affect our entire state, but they will have a particularly detrimental effect on our community, which is home to many aerospace-industry employees. These layoffs underscore the need for the legislature to begin work immediately next week on a plan to stimulate the economy and provide assistance for those who lose their jobs. I, for one, am ready to roll up my sleeves and tackle these difficult issues.”
Rep. Marko Liias, January 9, 2009
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Paine Field Town Hall
Posted Jan 05 at 2 AM
I will be cohosting a Town Hall meeting this Thursday, January 8th from 6-8pm at the new Mukilteo City Hall.
The meeting is being cohosted by Senator Paull Shin and Rep. Mary Helen Roberts.
We will be discussing the potential for expansion of commercial air service at Paine Field and how citizens can get involved and make your opinion heard.
As I have said previously, I am firmly opposed to expansion of air service at Paine Field. This Town Hall will be an opportunity to hear what you think!
Details: Town Hall Meeting on Paine Field
Thursday, January 8, 2009
6:00-8:00pm
Mukilteo City Hall, 11930 Cyrus Way, Mukilteo, WA
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Fundraising Freeze in Effect
Posted Dec 13 at 4 PM
As of 11:59pm on Friday, December 12, 2008, Liias for Legislature can no longer solicit or accept contributions. State law prohibits contributions during the legislative session and in the thirty days prior to the start of the session.
Any contributions that do not meet this timeline will be returned with our sincere thanks.
Thank you all for your support and generosity to the campaign, we could not have achieved such strong results in November without you!
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Contacting me during the legislative session
Posted Nov 14 at 3 AM
The 2009 legislative session will convene in January and last for 105 days. During this time, I will be spending most of the week in Olympia, and it is best to contact me through my legislative office.
I appreciate your feedback on the important decisions we will make this year, and I need to hear your thoughts on the issues that are important to our state.Contact information in Olympia
Legislative Aide: Paige DeChambeau
Office telephone: (360) 786-7972
Email: liias.marko@leg.wa.govVisiting Olympia?
If you are planning a visit to the State Capitol, let me know! There are tours available, and I always appreciate a chance to see friends. Our schedule is very hectic during the legislative session, so it helps to call a few days in advance to let me know you will be in the area.
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Comcast Newsmakers Interview
Posted Nov 06 at 8 PM
Marko was interviewed today for a Comcast Newsmakers segment that will be included on Comcast channels later this month.
Tony Ventrella asked Marko about career and technical education and other subjects during the short interview at Redmond City Hall.
Click below to view the video via YouTube.
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Marko leads with 66%
Posted Nov 05 at 6 PM
The initial results are in, and Marko has been elected! He is currently leading with nearly 20,000 votes and 66%. A big THANK YOU to all our volunteers and supporters.
Marko says a special thanks to campaign manager Robert Knoll!
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Mukilteo Beacon endorses Marko
Posted Oct 30 at 2 AM
Marko's hometown paper has endorsed him for the Legislature! The Mukilteo Beacon announced its support on Wednesday. The endorsement focused on Marko's background on the Mukilteo City Council and his record in one short session.
The Mukilteo Beacon is the fourth newspaper to endorse Marko Liias, continuing the unanimous support of editorial boards in this race.
Here is an excerpt:
"In his first year in Olympia, Liias worked hard to prove his worth, shepherding three bills to passage. The most important, perhaps, was creation of a $10 million emergency fund to save low cost housing – such as mobile home parks and apartments – in danger of being lost to new development... Residents of the 21st District deserve a representative who cares. We support Marko Liias."
To read the full endorsement, click here.
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Enterprise endorses Marko
Posted Oct 25 at 2 AM
The Enterprise newspapers have endorsed Marko Liias for state representative! The editorial board's endorsement is the third in a string of support from every newspaper to make a recommendation in the race.
Here is an excerpt:
"Liias was appointed to the Legislature in January to fill out the remainder of Rep. Brian Sullivan's term. He's worked hard in Olympia on affordable housing, education and business and technology. He deserves a chance at a full term to show voters what he can do, and receives our full backing."
To read the full endorsement, click here.
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Seattle Times Endorses Marko
Posted Oct 14 at 3 AM
The Seattle Times has become the second major newspaper to endorse Marko in his race for the Legislature.
Click here to read the full set of endorsements.
"Rep. Marko Liias seeks election to the Position 2 House seat he was appointed to last January when four-term state representative Brian Sullivan was elected to the Snohomish County Council. Democrat Liias was elected to the Mukilteo City Council in 2005, and he takes that solid local experience to Olympia."
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Marko featured on Q13 News
Posted Oct 10 at 3 AM
Our race is attracting some local media attention as Election Day nears!
This story in the Edmonds Enterprise led to a full story on Q13 news at 10pm on Thursday. Click here to read the Q13 story.
Marko did a great job talking about the issues in our district, and why a younger voice in the Legislature is an asset for our community.
We still need your help taking that message to the last few voters though, so consider sending a final donation to support our campaign!
Click here to contribute online.
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Everett Herald endorses Marko!
Posted Sep 24 at 4 AM
The Everett Herald has officially endorsed Marko for election this fall!
Below are excerpts from the endorsement, or you can click here to read the full endorsement!
"Liias has political experience to complement his clear thinking and good ideas.
He's on the House Education Committee, where he'll champion high standards and accountability, but also prudent changes to the WASL ...
He's also a strong proponent of bringing a technology-oriented four-year public university campus to Everett.
We think Liias has the intelligence, commitment and self-confidence to become an outstanding lawmaker."
(emphasis added)
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The "Chief" Endorsement
Posted Sep 18 at 3 AM
I am so pleased to announce that the Snohomish County Fire Chiefs Association has endorsed my campaign!
Earlier this week, I shared the support we have received from mayors in our area, now its the CEOs of our vital public safety agencies--our fire chiefs.
As a city councilman, I helped Mukilteo hire a new fire chief, and I saw first hand what a big job our fire chiefs take on every day.
In the email from the Association, they cited my support for Washington's firefighters. Ever since I got involved in our local EMS campaign, I have been a strong advocate for all of our first responders.
When we are in trouble, they come to our aid, when we leave the building, they are running into it. Standing up for these everyday heroes is a privilege, and I am honored to have their support.
To see all of my endorsements, click here.
To add your name to the list, click here!
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Eight Mayors Agree
Posted Sep 15 at 4 AM
We have heard a lot about mayors lately, especially small town mayors. That is why I am so proud to have the support of eight mayors right here in our area.
Mayors are the CEOs our cities, and they know good leadership when they see it. That is why they have joined our campaign.
Three of these mayors have signed the Mayors' Climate Protection Agreement, which is a local commitment to take action on global warming. I am proud to have environmental leaders like Edmonds Mayor Gary Haakenson, Everett Mayor Ray Stephanson, and Lynnwood Mayor Don Gough on my team.
I am also pleased to note that mayors from every city in the 21st District have endorsed my campaign. These leaders from every corner of our community know that I am advocate and a partner for every family in our district.
For all the national attention that has been given to mayors lately, I am proud to have the support of eight superb mayors!
List of Mayors:
Bothell Mayor Mark Lamb
Brier Mayor Bob Colinas
Edmonds Mayor Gary Haakenson
Everett Mayor Ray Stephanson
Lynnwood Mayor Don Gough
Mountlake Terrace Mayor Jerry Smith
Mukilteo Mayor Pro Tem Randy Lord
Shoreline Mayor Cindy Ryu -
Statewide leadership
Posted Sep 04 at 3 AM
The state's new consumer protection website went live this week, and already it is receiving statewide news coverage.
I was pleased to sponsor the bill that created the new resource, and I am so pleased that consumers across the state will now benefit from the resources that exist.
Links:
Click here to watch a TV story from KNDU in the Tri-Cities.
Click here to visit the consumer protection site.
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Strong Job Growth
Posted Sep 01 at 7 PM
Mukilteo and Lynnwood are leading the state in job creation, according to a new report. Strong growth in the manufacturing sector has helped create nearly 3,000 new jobs in the two cities according to the Puget Sound Regional Council.
The growth from 2006-2007 places the cities in the top 10 communities across the state in terms of job creation. A strong and vibrant aerospace industry has reinforced the growth in manufacturing jobs.
Our strategy is working, by investing in small aerospace companies, like we did this past session, we are creating family-wage jobs and keeping the economy strong.
I was proud to be the House sponsor of the bill to extend the Boeing tax incentive package to our smallest aerospace companies, and I was pleased that the bill made it to the governor and was signed into law.
In the coming session, I will continue to be a strong advocate for more good, family-wage jobs in our community. Though our national economic picture is uncertain, I am hopeful that we can make progress here at home. -
Empowering Consumers
Posted Aug 28 at 7 PM
Starting today, Washington's consumers have one more tool in their arsenal: information. A new one-stop consumer protection website went live this morning and consumers are already benefiting.
The website covers several major topic areas including children, education, and product safety. Included within the topics are hundreds of links to existing resources for consumers.
“The bottom line is that we are already paying for these services, but people do not always know where to turn for help. This website will empower people to protect themselves and their families,” said Rep. Marko Liias.
The website is the product of a bill introduced by Rep. Liias, which was signed into law by the Governor in April. As a new representative, Rep. Liias was instrumental is passing legislation directing state government to create the new resource for consumers.
The full web address for the site is: http://access.wa.gov/consumer
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Huge Primary Victory
Posted Aug 20 at 1 PM
The first results are in, and we exceeded all expectations! Marko Liias received 61.59% of the vote, which is historic for a first time Democrat in this swing district.
Rep. Marko Liias released this brief statement:
"I want to thank the voters of the 21st District for their strong support tonight. We have visited thousands of doors with my positive message, and it is so gratifying to see the results of our work. I look forward to a strong campaign this fall, and the opportunity to get to work as your voice in Olympia."
