5th Congressional District candidates discuss platforms at open forum

SPOKANE COUNTY, Wash. -- Republican candidates running for Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers soon-to-be vacated seat in congress gathered for an open forum on Monday evening.

Spokane County Republicans hosted the 5th District Congressional Candidate Forum to hear from five of the six candidates republican candidates in this year's race.

The candidates in attendance were: Michael Baumgartner, Brian Dansel, Rick Flynn, Rene' Holaday and Jacquelin Maycumber.

Spokane City Councilmember, Jonathan Bingle, was the only candidate who could not attend, due to Monday's city council meeting.

Each candidate took the opportunity to tell the community why they think they're the best fit to serve Washington's Fifth District.

"We must address our economic concerns by promoting policy that spurs growth, necessary regulation and encourages innovation," said Representative Jacquelin Maycumber of the 7th Congressional District.

Ferry County Commissioner, Brian Dansel , said he would fight for eastern Washington if elected.

"They need somebody that's been a seasoned fighter that can go back to Washington, D.C., especially now, when we see what's at stake, and stand up for you folks and say on behalf of eastern Washington, 'enough is enough, and we're not going to allow it anymore,'" said Dansel.

Air Force veteran, Rick Flynn , emphasized that he is not a career politician.

"I will reach across the aisle and work with the Democrats to get reasonable legislation passed. That doesn't mean the Democrats will get everything they want. It simply means that the government will actually get some things done," said Flynn.

Spokane County Treasurer, Michael Baumgartner , spoke about making border security a priority.

"Number one is securing our southern border. We cannot have a country with an open border like we have now, it is chaos," said Baumgartner. "We also have to get this reckless spending and inflation under control."

Candidate Rene' Holaday of Addy, Washington talked about the congressional bills she has written and hopes to pass.

"The first bill addresses closing the border and banning electronic voting machines and mail-in ballots," said Holaday.

In addition to the six Republican candidates, there are also five Democratic candidates. Click here to see bios for all the candidates.

RELATED COVERAGE: Congresswoman Cath McMorris Rodgers announces she will not run for re-election

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