Why I’m a candidate for 40th Legislative District representative

||| FROM JOSEPH SEGAULT |||

My name is Joseph Segault, and I am proud to announce that I am running for Washington State Representative, 40th Legislative District, Position 2, representing all of San Juan County and portions of Whatcom and Skagit counties.

I was raised on Orcas Island and have had the incredible privilege of raising my own children here as well. There is something truly special about this place— its natural beauty, its history, its independence, and, most importantly, the people who call it home. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to be part of this community.

My decision to run for office comes from a simple belief: Our communities deserve a stronger, more personal voice in Olympia.

Our District is unlike anywhere else. Within these lands exists a remarkable collection of smaller communities, each with its own character, challenges, and contributions. We are retirees and young families, fishermen and loggers, teachers and artists, farmers, tradespeople, and small-business owners. We have longtime island families, new residents bringing fresh perspectives, and generations of hardworking blue-collar neighbors who helped build the communities we enjoy today.

We have hippies and hicks, and just about everyone in between. And that is part of what makes this place so extraordinary.

While our backgrounds, beliefs, and priorities may differ, each of us contributes something essential to the fabric of island life. Our differences should be a source of strength, not a reason for division.

Unfortunately, too many of our neighbors feel that their concerns go unheard or that their way of life is overlooked when decisions are made at the county and state levels.

I believe representation should mean more than simply holding an elected position. It means listening, being accessible, understanding the challenges people face, and recognizing that every community deserves a seat at the table.

True leadership isn’t about choosing which neighbors deserve to be heard. It’s about making sure all of them are.

As an Independent candidate, I believe I have a unique opportunity to approach the issues facing our district with an open mind, putting the needs of our communities ahead of political labels or party expectations.

I don’t expect everyone to agree with me, and I certainly don’t pretend to have all the answers. But I do believe that respectful conversations, common sense, and a genuine willingness to listen are where meaningful progress begins.

One of the greatest rewards of this campaign has been meeting with neighbors, hearing their stories, and learning more about the issues that matter to them. I welcome those conversations, especially with people whose perspectives may differ from my own.

After all, we are neighbors first.

I am deeply honored to have this opportunity, and I would be grateful for your questions, ideas, and conversations as we move toward November.

Thank you for the kindness, encouragement, and support you have shown me and my family throughout this journey.

Our Region is special because of the people who call it Home. Every one of those voices deserves to be heard.