Letters to the Editor

Letter to the Editor: Vote for Caldier, Hutchins and common sense

Residents of the 26th Legislative District —those living in Gig Harbor, Port Orchard, Bremerton, the Key Peninsula, and outlying areas – as well as other Washington citizens – are facing an unprecedented time of inflationary pressure, rising interest rates, rising consumer prices, a sharp rise in violent crimes, understaffed police and sheriff’s departments for most cities and counties, flat or reduced public safety budgets, out of control government spending, coupled with the legalization of some controlled substances (hard drugs) for personal possession, restrictive laws limiting police pursuit of criminals and suspects, a rise in homelessness, a lack of affordable housing, and a growing mental health crisis.

The mid-term general election Nov. 8 is an opportunity for voters to elect fiscally-conservative, community-minded public leaders who will follow and uphold the U.S. Constitution and exercise common sense and sound judgment for the benefit of all citizens rather than leaders who practice and/or promote cultural Marxism progressive policies. Leadership, experience, a network of trusted relationships, the ability to work across the aisle, wisdom, knowledge, research, measurement (testing), budget and finance expertise, public input and comment are among the keys to creating, adopting and maintaining effective public policy.

The state Legislature, because of its relatively low salary structure and part-time nature in Washington, primarily attracts candidates with a desire for and experience in public service, which is fortunate. The 26th District is blessed to have two candidates of exceptional caliber and merit for State Representative who have proven themselves outstanding in their respective fields and in community service, and deserve our votes of support. Rep. Michelle Caldier has served and represented our district effectively for the last eight years and is seeking a fifth consecutive term in office. She has a solid track record of achievement and accomplishment.

Her running mate, Spencer Hutchins, is a former Gig Harbor City Council member, UW law school grad, and business CEO managing a 100+ employee enterprise. He serves on several civic and nonprofit boards, is married, and has two children with a third due around election day. He has demonstrated a  strong ability to lead, solve problems, bring people together, and work collaboratively on teams.

We need their experience, talents, energy, leadership, track records, reputations and maturity to represent us in Olympia.

Bruce Cook

Lakebay

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