BEN CHRISTLY LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE, 17TH DISTRICT

Vancouver, WA — Ben Christly, a Navy veteran, flight nurse, small business founder, and father of three, today announced his campaign for State Representative in Washington’s 17th Legislative District, running on a platform centered on affordability, accessible healthcare, strong public schools, and practical leadership that puts people first.

“Too many people in our communities are working harder than ever and still falling behind,” said Christly. “Rising costs are squeezing families, small businesses, and retirees. It shouldn’t be this hard to build a stable life, and I’m running to bring real-world experience and common-sense solutions to Olympia.”

Christly grew up in a working-class family and joined the U.S. Navy at 17, serving honorably. After his military service, he earned his nursing degree and has spent more than 20 years caring for patients. Today, he works as a flight nurse, transporting critically ill patients and seeing firsthand the impact of an increasingly unaffordable healthcare system.

A former small business owner, Christly understands the challenges facing entrepreneurs, from rising costs to navigating red tape. He says Washington must do more to support small businesses that are essential to local communities.

Education is a central focus of Christly’s campaign. He supports fully funding public schools, expanding access to early learning and preschool, strengthening K–12 education, and investing in trade schools, apprenticeships, community colleges, and affordable four-year degrees.

Christly serves on the Clark County Charter Review Commission, where he brings a pragmatic, nonpartisan approach focused on transparency and accountability. Outside of work, he has coached youth sports, volunteered with Meals on Wheels, and supported fellow veterans navigating the healthcare system.

“I’m not interested in political games or division,” Ben Christly said. “We get better results when we work together and stay focused on the people we serve.”

Christly lives in the 17th Legislative District with his partner, Cait, and their blended family.