Lieutenant Governor Term: 4 Years Denny Heck Party: Democrat

The Lieutenant Governor functions as President of the State Senate and, as such, is the lead
parliamentarian of that body and helps determine which legislation advances to the Senate
floor for debate.

Website: https://dennyheck.com/

What are your views on how we’re handling the COVID-19 pandemic? Do you think it’s worthwhile?
“Here are my priorities for the COVID-19 pandemic, as it is the greatest challenge our state has faced in my memory.
It has caused immense suffering – thousands seriously ill or dead; hundreds of thousands out of work, and millions
dealing with disruption of life, separation from loved ones, and the burden of an unknown future. There can be no
higher priority for state action:
1. Continue following scientific guidance in requiring masks and social distancing…other countries have shown that
we can return kids to school and reopen businesses
2. These restrictions and fear of the virus are causing significant economic damage. We must provide assistance to
everyone affected to ensure that nobody loses their home or has to go without food or healthcare while we work
together to get through this.
3. The loss of in-person school days poses significant hardship for parents and will certainly harm learning outcomes
for students…in the meantime, we must finance childcare resources for parents so they can return to work
4. Continue to provide free COVID-19 testing sites and medical care, with a focus on communities who have been hit
hardest by the virus
5. Save small businesses”
What are your top four political issues in the political world right now?
1. “finally doing something about climate change, the existential threat of our time! I put my money where my mouth
is on this issue…I was one of the first members of the US house to co-sponsor HR 763, the Energy Innovation and
Carbon Dividend Act
2. Addressing the growing income inequality in our nation. When we rebuild our economy now, we must take
advantage of the opportunity to do this better and provide for more broadly shared prosperity.
3. The legacy of 400 years of systemic and institutional racism is still denying African Americans their full
opportunity to pursue the American dream…if you are born a person of color in this country, you start life with a
heavy backpack on. Race impacts life outcomes for people everywhere in our country, not just Washington State…
people of color have lower incomes, less access to quality healthcare, less access to affordable housing, have lower
educational attainments, have lower educational attainments, etc.
4. Health care is one of the basic needs of life. Every wealthy nation has the means to ensure that all of their citizens
have access to affordable health care, but America alone fails to ensure that everyone actually receives this. It’s a
tragedy and moral outrage. But it’s one we can end whenever we choose.” “The only reason to run for any office is
to make a difference. I have a passion for making a difference through public service, and I have always admired
the office Lieutenant Governor, which sits at the intersection of so many roles I have played in my life.”
Being a political leader, what do you think the most important issue is currently?
“Climate change and racial justice. But also the election on November 3 rd.”
Endorsements Press
https://www.govtrack.us/congress/members/denny_heck/41258
Association of Washington Business, Humane 4

Voters of Washington, Washington Food https://www.heraldnet.com/opinion/editorial-denny-heck-best-

Industry qualified-as-lieutenant-governor/
Association, Washington Sierra Club, etc.