Curtis Marquardt is a Democratic candidate for the State House of Representatives in District 35, which includes Rapid Valley, most of North Rapid, and central Rapid City.

"I'm running for the legislature because working people need a voice in Pierre," Marquardt said. "In this economy, families cannot afford to purchase gasoline and groceries on our current wages. It's time for South Dakota to raise the minimum wage to at least $8.50 an hour."

Marquardt said he also is concerned about workers' compensation laws and is a supporter of child-care assistance for working parents.

Marquardt said he supports efforts to create a statewide health insurance risk pool to cover catastrophic medical expenses.

"I'm one of the 90,000 South Dakotans who lack health insurance, so I understand the financial anxiety of hard-working people who are one medical emergency away from bankruptcy."

Marquardt is a native of Michigan and has been employed as a cook at the Millstone Restaurant for three years.

"I love the beauty of the Black Hills. This is a great environment for camping, hunting, fishing and tourism. Our political leaders need to protect the scenic beauty. At the same time, we have the potential to develop clean energy sources, especially wind power and solar energy sources, and help meet America's needs."

Marquardt graduated from high school and attended community college in Michigan. He said he has worked blue-collar jobs his entire adult life. He is a member of the South Dakota Peace and Justice Center.

Although this is Marquardt's first run for public office, he said his family has been involved in Michigan politics for generations.

Marquardt and his fiancée, Abigail Pease, and her two children live on the east side of Rapid City.