Vicki Kraft, who politically aligns with Lynda Wilson, is hoping to replace the Vancouver Republican in the state House of Representatives.
Wilson is running for the seat being vacated by Sen. Don Benton, R-Vancouver, clearing the way for Kraft’s run to represent the 17th Legislative District in the House.
“I’ve gotten to know Lynda during our work on the Clark County Republican board, and we share very similar values: less taxes and regulations and making sure education is properly funded,” Kraft said.
Kraft currently works for the Freedom Foundation, a nonprofit think tank that promotes individual liberty, free enterprise and limited government. Previously, she worked for Dell, Pillsbury and Frigidaire. Kraft spent time as a nonprofit consultant in Washington, D.C., helping organizations secure grants and ensure their legal and accounting work was in order.
While working for Dell, she spent time working with school districts to help them take advantage of technology and address challenges. She said the experience helped her identify where people could work together and find cost-efficient solutions.
In 2012, she was elected to the Clark County Republican Party executive board. She is currently the chairman of the 17th Legislative District. Since moving to the region in 2007, Kraft has been involved with the Boys and Girls Club, the Veterans Community Garden and the Vancouver Church of God.
She grew up in Michigan and graduated from Michigan State University with a bachelor of arts degree in advertising.
“There are significant issues to be addressed for Clark County and our state in the near term including how best to fully fund education in light of the McCleary decision last year, how local levy funds are used to supplement state funds, and the future of charter schools. We also need a local bridge solution to relieve congestion on the Interstate 5 corridor, one that reflects the will of the voters and accomplishes the desired outcome,” Kraft said in a statement.
If elected, Kraft said, she would be adept at working across the aisle.
“You can ask any of our local officials and party leaders: I’m a bridge person, if you will,” Kraft said. “I respect the diversity that is within our state and I understand the need to work together … and come up with solutions.”
