Kevin Ranker, Democratic candidate for 40th District state Senate, was endorsed this week by the Washington Education Association, Skagit County Commissioner Ken Dahlstedt, Anacortes Mayor Dean Maxwell, Village Books owners Chuck and Dee Robinson, and Skagit County Democratic Party Vice Chairperson Gail Nicolls.

“We are proud to endorse Kevin Ranker because he understands the importance of strong, effective public schools,” said Shari Ludden, first-grade teacher in the Stanwood-Camano School District and a WEA political action committee chairwoman.

“Kevin knows it is the paramount duty of the state to fully fund basic education and he understands the complexity of education funding issues. We are confident he will be a champion for our region’s students and public schools.”

Maxwell added, “From protection and growth of jobs and our marine industry to ferries to our quality of life, Kevin understands our local needs. He will be a very strong leader for our community in the Washington state Senate.”

Ranker’s campaign has reported raising more than $36,000 in contributions. He won the endorsement of the 40th Legislative District Democrats and secured key endorsements in all three counties in the 40th Legislation District.

Other supporters include Skagit County Commissioner Sharon Dillon, the Washington Conservation Voters and its Anacortes and Whatcom chapters, Anacortes Port Commissioner Keith Rubin, San Juan County Council members Gene Knapp and Bob Myhr, Whatcom County Councilman Bob Kelly, the San Juan County Democratic Party, San Juan Chamber of Commerce Past President Melonie Walter, Joy Keenan, and several members of the Washington state Senate and House.