Meet the candidates

Brian Murray

Personal: 27; Spokane native; married for five years.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in economics from Gonzaga University; completing a master’s degree in organizational leadership at GU.

Professional: Policy and research adviser to Spokane Mayor Jim West; executive legislative assistant to West when the mayor was the Senate majority leader; worked in delivery, sales and other jobs for his parents’ company, Murray Cleaning Supply.

Political: Appointed to state Senate in December 2003, after West was elected mayor of Spokane. Served as the deputy majority whip and on four committees: economic development, financial services, insurance and housing, and highways and transportation. Also served in various offices for the Spokane County Republicans and the Young Republicans. Supervisor for County Conservation District.

Key issues: Jobs and economic development, transportation, health care.

Money raised: $113,836

Top contributors: 6th Legislative District Comm.; Avista Corp.; Boise Cascade Corp.; Northwest Racing Association; Plese Realty; other individuals and organizations.

First priority if elected: funding for the nursing building at the Riverpoint campus.