Mark Schoesler (R)

Resume: 39, born and raised in Ritzville … wheat, cattle and canola farmer, former U.S. Department of Agriculture employee … has served two House terms; is assistant majority floor leader, serves on Agriculture and Ecology, Corrections, Finance and Rules committtees … associate’s degree from Spokane Community College … married, two children … lives in Ritzville.

Finances: As of Sept. 9, had raised $42,390 and spent $30,707. Large contributors: $1,100 from Leffel, Otis and Warwick (accounting firm) of Ritzville, $850 from Metropolitan Mortgage of Spokane, $750 from Phillip Morris USA of New York, $700 from Boeing, $600 from U.S. West.

Why running: Says he’s experienced and knows the district well.

Top priority on taking office: To toughen juvenile crime system to deal with today’s more violent criminals.

, DataTimes