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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

John Carlson

Personal

Age 41, Raised in West Seattle. Married to Lisa Carlson; two sons.

Employment

Hosted Seattle talk-radio program (1993-March 2000); syndicated newspaper columnist (1990-March 2000).

Education

West Seattle High School (1977); University of Washington bachelors degree in political science (1981).

Political history

Lost 1984 race for state House of Representatives; Chaired three statewide initiative campaigns: Initiative 200, which banned state Affirmative Action programs; “Three Strikes You’re Out” Initiative 593; and Initiative 159, which lengthened prison terms for armed crimes.

Issues

Voter approval for all future tax increases; property tax reduction; contracting out state services to private firms; add residential burglary and metamphetamine to list of “Three Strikes, You’re Out” crimes; opposes Microsoft break-up; opposes sales tax on Internet purchases.

Finances

$1 million as of Aug. 28.

Website

www.johncarlson.org

Quote

On education: “The temptation from Olympia is to micro-manage. Why? How many legislators have to sit in a classroom all day?”

1. GOP governor candidates take step to the right 2. Questions for the candidates / Washington Governor