Bellingham businessman and legislative candidate Dusty Gulleson held a meet-and-greet May 4 at the American Legion Hall in Friday Harbor to introduce himself to San Juan County voters.

The event featured Attorney General Rob McKenna, who introduced Gulleson and announced his endorsement of him.

“I’m betting the voters in the 40th are ready for reform in state government,” Gulleson said after the event. “People are tired of Olympia writing bloated budgets that result in state government running out of money every year. I know we can craft a budget that protects our priorities and boosts our education system without raising taxes.”

Gulleson is the president of a technology company that has weathered the storm of two recessions. He said, “Our district needs a state legislator who is focused on adding jobs. The path out of the state’s budget woes is to get more people back to work.”

McKenna said, “I’ve been impressed with Dusty’s campaign. Dusty is a business leader and a family man. I know he’ll work hard in Olympia to grow the jobs base and protect what’s important for future generations.”

Gulleson is running as a Republican for House position 1 in the 40th District, currently held by retiring Rep. Dave Quall. The 35-year-old and his wife, Rachel, are raising their two children in Bellingham.

More information on Gulleson’s candidacy can be found at www.votedusty.com.