Brad Benson
Party: Republican
Age: 45
Personal: Married since 1983 to Jill Benson. The couple have lived in Spokane since 1986 and have four children: Ashley, 18, Patrick, 14, Grahm, 10 and Hannah, 7. They have a four-month-old grandson, Dane.
Education: Bachelor of science degree in business administration and marketing from California State University-Sacramento; MBA from the University of Southern California
Professional: Previous owner of a small business, Hansen’s Creamery, 1992-1997 and assistant vice president of Seafirst National Bank, 1988-1996. Military service includes captain in the U.S. Air Force. Since 1999, he has been a major in the Washington Air National Guard.
Political: Finished fourth term in the Washington State House of Representatives; committee assignments included: financial institutions and insurance, capital budget and health care. Also a member of the joint legislative audit and review committee.
Key issues: State budget, affordable health care, continue to offer expertise in financial institutions, securities and insurance issues
Money raised/spent: $11,141 (6/30-PDC) $15,000
Top contributors: Duane Alton
Quote: "Integrity is a big part of me. From a very young age, I never really had money to give to causes so I threw myselt into the system so I can make things better for people."
Key influence: His mother, Susie Niswonger
Favorite book: The Bible, especially Romans
First priority if elected: Jobs and "to try and make life better for people in my district and in the state of Washington."
Email: Wa6threp@earthlink.net
