In the 26th District, Republican Rep. Spencer Hutchins has decided to step down for personal reasons. His Democratic opponent of two years ago, Adison Richards, is running again this year after losing to Hutchins by only 735 votes.
This year, Richards has significantly boosted fundraising while doubling down on campaign strategies that allowed him to nearly win last time. Richards was thoughtful and concise in his endorsement interview responses, and expressed support for several statewide environmental initiatives.
After growing up in the area, graduating from Peninsula High School, and now living in Bremerton, he has gained a deep understanding of the district and its constituents. As a lawyer, Richards has worked for Northwest Justice Project where he represented victims of domestic violence and human trafficking.
He now works at Kitsap Legal Services in housing law. Richards is busy knocking doors, talking to neighbors, attending community events, and raising funds. He is also endorsed by Washington Conservation Action.
Richards faces two Republicans in the primary election: Jesse Young and Jim Henderson. For the moment, Young and Henderson are busy battling it out in the primary, as both candidates have ample fundraising and active campaigns.
Some may remember that back in 2020, then-Representative Young confronted BLM protesters in Gig Harbor, accompanied by supporters who were carrying AR-15 semiautomatic rifles and other weapons. In 2015, Young was accused by several legislative staff members, as well as his campaign manager, for having screaming fits of anger, insulting and belittling them.
Richards will adjust his campaign strategy once the top Republican finisher is determined from the primary election results. To donate to Richards’ campaign, go to: