Deken Letinich

Candidate for Washington State Representative, 18th Legislative District, Position 2
Donate to Deken's Campaign Here! 

Deken Letinich is a lifelong Clark County resident who has spent the last 12 years as a union organizer and advocate for Southwest Washington workers. Raised in a union family, Deken has dedicated his career to improving wages, workplace safety, healthcare access, and working conditions.

His work on behalf of Southwest Washington workers was recognized in 2018 when he was named Southwest Washington Labor Council Union Member of the Year. In 2024, he successfully advocated for increased workplace safety and better access to healthcare products on worksites. In 2025, he joined the Columbia River Mental Health Board.

Deken describes his approach to public service as collaborative. He says effective representation requires teamwork and that he is committed to working with people across political lines to deliver results for Southwest Washington.

What Deken Letinich Says He Stands For

Making Life More Affordable

Lowering the cost of housing, healthcare, childcare, prescription medications, and everyday necessities so working people can afford to live and thrive in Southwest Washington.

Affordable Childcare

Expanding access to affordable, high-quality childcare by reducing barriers for providers, expanding Pre-K opportunities, and strengthening early childhood education programs.

Strong Public Schools

Increasing support for public education, including smaller class sizes, after-school programs, counselors, psychologists, teachers, and classified staff.

Infrastructure

Investing in roads, bridges, and other infrastructure while supporting the replacement of the I-5 Bridge and the family-wage jobs connected with major infrastructure projects.

Family-Wage Jobs and a Strong Economy

Supporting economic development and infrastructure investments that create good-paying jobs and allow Southwest Washington workers to afford to live in the communities where they work.

Workers' Rights

Supporting the right of workers to unionize and advocating for fair pay, safe workplaces, and strong working conditions.

Affordable Healthcare

Expanding access to healthcare, supporting clinics and healthcare-worker training in underserved communities, and working to lower prescription drug costs.

Public Safety

Supporting appropriate funding for police, firefighters, and emergency medical professionals and working to keep Southwest Washington communities safe.