Islander Mark A. Goldman has declared his candidacy for office in Washington state’s 7th Congressional District, running as an independent against Democratic incumbent Jim McDermott.

A longtime Islander, Goldman was born in New Jersey and today is a financial planner and registered investment advisor. He’s written three books of political commentary, two of which are available free as ebooks at Goldman’s Web site at www.gpln.com.

“I believe that members of Congress, including our own representative, have failed to uphold their oath of office, which is a solemn promise to preserve and protect the Constitution,” Goldman said. “Our Constitution is in shreds and most Americans are uninformed about it or don’t care partly or largely because members of Congress are too afraid to speak out. We need new leadership. Our own representative has not seen fit to defend our rights with any sense of passion or commitment. I’m offering to put all my energies in trying to get us on the right track again.”

Goldman will appear on the primary ballot in August, and if he garners enough votes then, will advance to the November general election. The following link takes readers to Goldman’s introductory statement: www.gpln.com/announceforhouseseat.htm.