MOSES LAKE - A Moses Lake contractor and small business owner has announced his candidacy to represent the 13th Legislative District.

Kaj Selmann, 37, is a Democrat who will compete with Republican Matthew Manweller, 41, for the seat currently held by Rep. Bill Hinkle, R-Cle Elum.

Selmann's primary goal in Olympia would be to improve the economic and living conditions of all who live in the 13th District.

He emphasizes rail as a future economic driver throughout the district.

Selmann's other priorities include an effort to diversify business and industry in the region, protect resources, expand the agriculture industry and streamline government to make sure the state's regulatory agencies have adequate oversight.

Hinkle announced in December he won't seek re-election. Manweller, who filed to run late last year, is the Kittitas County GOP chairman and a Central Washington University political science professor