State Representative Pos. 2 District 18 in Washington State House District 18, Washington

2026 Primary Election

• John Ley — Incumbent Washington House of Representatives, District 18, Position 2 in Vancouver, WA

  John Ley is a Republican member of the Washington House of Representatives, representing District 18, Position 2. He assumed office in January 2025 and is seeking re-election in the 2026 primary. Ley grew up in the Pacific Northwest, the oldest of six, and earned an Air Force ROTC scholarship. In the legislature, his priorities include fiscal conservatism, advocating for tax cuts, fostering a better business climate, and empowering individuals with decisions over their health, work, and education. He is a vocal opponent of state income tax proposals, believing they harm Washingtonians. Ley states it's his honor to serve and represent his constituents in Olympia.

• Deken Letinich — Union advocate in Vancouver, WA

  Deken Letinich is a Democratic candidate for Washington House of Representatives District 18-Position 2 in the 2026 primary election. A dedicated union advocate, he traces his roots in Clark County back three generations. Letinich graduated from Evergreen High School and has professional experience as a laborer and in leadership roles with the Washington and Northern Idaho District Council of Laborers, maintaining affiliation with LiUNA Local 335. His campaign prioritizes making life more affordable and fostering economic opportunity for Southwest Washington families, advocating for practical solutions to reduce costs for housing, childcare, and healthcare. He is committed to investing in workers, ensuring broad access to opportunity, and strengthening the foundations of education and a thriving economy.