Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2009

Kennewick ex-Marine to challenge Hastings

By Drew Foster, Herald staff writer

Jay Clough, a 33-year-old former Marine, announced Monday that he's running for Rep. Doc Hastings' seat in the U.S. House of Representatives next year as a Democrat.

Clough, speaking Monday morning in front of the Regional Veterans Memorial at Columbia Park, said Hastings is disconnected from his constituents.

"We need a representative who actively travels the district and listens to people's concerns," Clough said as about a half-dozen sign-holding supporters stood behind him.

"I don't see that happening now," the Kennewick resident added.

Hastings spokeswoman Jessica Gleason disputed Clough's claim that the congressman is out of touch with his district, saying, "Congressman Hastings has a proven record of service to Central Washington families and communities. Last week he was in Washington, D.C., voting and made it a priority to host telephone town hall meetings reaching out to nearly 50,000 Central Washington residents to hear their thoughts on health care.

"Congressman Hastings is always looking for innovative ways to communicate with and listen to the people he represents whether he's home or voting in Washington, D.C."

Hastings, R-Wash., has served the state's 4th Congressional District since 1994 and has easily withstood past challengers.

Bob Parazin, Benton County Democratic Central Committee chairman, said Clough, or any Democrat, will have a tough time unseating Hastings.

"(Clough's) got the energy and enthusiasm," Parazin said, "and I'll be the first to tell you it will be an uphill battle."

Parazin said Hastings' past eight Democrat challengers failed to get more than 38 percent of the vote.

Clough is the first Democrat to declare a run at the U.S. House seat up for election next year. Parazin said Clough's announcement Monday should help him gain name recognition in the large Central Washington district.

"Personally, I think the biggest challenge for Jay is just getting out there and getting his message heard," Parazin said.

Clough's message includes increasing Washington's international export of goods such as apples and wine. He is especially focused on expanding trade to Asian nations such as Japan, South Korea and China, which he called "fertile markets."

He also wants to increase green manufacturing jobs. He said he'd like to see more wind turbine and solar panel manufacturers locate in this state.

"They'd bring good union jobs to the economy," he said.

Clough works for Washington Closure Hanford. He joined the Marines after graduating from Kennewick High School in 1995. He served from 1995-99.

w Drew Foster: 585-7207; dfoster@tri cityherald.com