Republican Susan Fagan kicked off her campaign for the Washington 9th District legislative seat on Wednesday at the Metriguard Hopkins Court in the Industrial Park of Pullman.

The 9th District is currently represented by Don Cox (R-Colfax), who was appointed to fill the seat vacated by Steve Hailey. Hailey planned to resign his seat in January of this year due to a bout with colon cancer, but passed away Dec. 28.

Though Cox has declined to run for the seat, three other Republicans have filed, including Darin Watkins of Palouse, Art Swannack of Lamont and Pat Hailey (the widow of Steve Hailey and his former campaign manager) of Mesa. No Democrats have filed to run.

The event took place from 5 to 7 p.m., leaving plenty of time for voters to ask Fagan questions. The rally had about 100 people show up to support Fagan. There was a keynote speech from Rob McKenna, Washington’s attorney general, endorsing Fagan’s endeavor.

McKenna said he believes Fagan is ready to serve.

“I’m happy to endorse Susan Fagan for the Legislature,” he said. “She has tremendous background with hands-on experience in high-tech manufacturing and in agriculture.” Fagan, a former Director of Public Affairs for Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, is a Pullman resident. Fagan said she was excited to begin her campaign on her home turf and was grateful for McKenna’s endorsement.

“I am honored that Rob is endorsing me,” she said. “He is a smart, dedicated public servant and a leader in our party.” Fagan’s campaign plans to focus on four key issues – economic climate, agriculture, education and health care. She is concerned about the reliability for Eastern Washington agricultural workers to retain jobs, along with the ability for businesses to create new ones.

“We’re thankful for those taking the risk of starting new businesses, as agriculture is the cornerstone of life in our district,” she said.

Fagan has been spending time traveling through the district to hear concerns about the economic climate, especially the impact it’s having on the state.

“I’ve been talking to many people, including representatives from WSU and (Eastern Washington University), and know what is important,” she said. “I’m looking forward to the kick off so I can discuss issues with Whitman County voters.” James DeVleming, Fagan’s campaign co-chair along with Shannon Kelly, has been working with Fagan well before she decided to run for office.

DeVleming said Fagan focused on talking about issues in generalities and was happy to talk to anyone.

“I’ve known Susan forever, and she’s a fabulous candidate, and will make a fabulous legislator when we get her in office,” he said.