Superior Judge, Pos. 17: Anderson has legal, judicial experience

Published 1:30 am Friday, October 27, 2023

I was delighted when my friend Mary Anderson decided to run for judicial office in Snohomish County. Anderson is an excellent litigator, having successfully argued in front of the state Supreme Court. She prepared for her aspirations by serving as a judge pro tempore in Snohomish County. She did everything right before seeking this leadership role. I enthusiastically endorsed her.

I was shocked when I was asked to rescind my endorsement of Anderson on the basis that she is secretly “anti-abortion and anti-LGBTQ+.” I don’t think that those asking me to disavow her realize how long I have known her. So I am going to take advantage of my long friendship with Anderson to say the things in her defense that she cannot, under the state Judicial Codes of Conduct. Anderson’s critics are taking advantage of her strict adherence to the judicial codes to spread these rumors.

She was asked to speak at the Arlington Pride Parade. She was rated “well-qualified” by Q-Law, the state LGBT Bar Association. And she was endorsed by the state Federation of Democratic Women, Salish Sea Chapter. Why would someone who is anti-choice or anti-LGBTQ+ even seek those endorsements, let alone receive them?

I ask that the voters treat Anderson with dignity. Her detractors should consider how much courage it takes for a non-traditional candidate to stand for office in our county. My friend deserves fair treatment.

Jenna Nand

Edmonds