Cooper in race for Congress

MEDICAL LAKE — Mayor Terri Cooper has declared her candidacy for Congress.

The 62-year-old Cooper's announcement came during the Spokane County Republican Convention on Saturday, where she outlined her vision for addressing issues facing the district.

With Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers opting not to seek reelection, Cooper joins a competitive field of Republican candidates vying for the vacant seat.

Among them are Spokane City Councilman Jonathan Bingle, Spokane County Treasurer Michael Baumgartner, Ferry County Commissioner Brian Dansel, former state employee John Guenther, Liberty state advocate and talk radio host Rene Holaday, and state Rep. Jacquelin Maycumber.

Cooper, who has served as mayor of Medical Lake since 2021, has risen on the local stage in the wake of the Gray Fire last August.

Her experience navigating the crisis highlighted the need for effective leadership, she said..

"I fear that if we do not have a strong leader in Congress, that farmers are at great risk," she said. "Washington State is the second highest exporter of agriculture in the nation. Keeping agriculture viable is vital for the nation."

Following the fire, Cooper has led the Spokane Region Long Term Recovery Group. She retired early from her position as Cheney Municipal Court commissioner to dedicate more time to her role as mayor and the recovery.

In addition to mayoral duties, Cooper co-founded Restore Hope, a humanitarian aid organization, and Re*Imagine Medical Lake, focused on boosting tourism in the area. Her commitment to public service extends to initiatives such as the Cheney Youth Court, an alternative court for young individuals facing traffic violations.

Cooper said her dedication to serving the people is rooted in genuine care in people and her community.

"What differentiates me is that I am not a career politician," she said. "I'm a public servant.

Cooper's candidacy adds depth to an already diverse political landscape, with three Democratic contenders also vying for the seat. Among them are OB-GYN Dr. Bernadine Bank, business-owner Ann Marie Danimus and former diplomat Carmela Conroy.