Forum: New Herald columnist hopes to encourage dialogue, insight

Todd Welch is a Navy veteran and former member of the Lake Stevens City Council and will focus on local issues.

By Todd Welch / Herald Forum

Editor’s note: The Herald Opinion section is welcoming a new regular columnist to its pages. Look for Todd Welch’s columns regularly on Wednesdays.

I’m Todd Welch, and I’m thrilled to join The Herald as a new columnist. As someone who values thoughtful discussion and robust debate, I’m excited to bring a right-of-center perspective to the community’s conversations on the issues that shape our lives.

A little about myself: After moving to Snohomish County in 1995, I’ve immersed myself in the Northwest’s vibrant culture and its unique challenges. My professional journey has been diverse, including a 20-year Navy career and then the information technology field. After retiring from the Navy in 2011, I was elected to the Lake Stevens City Council, where I served for eight years. I then served on the city’s planning commission. I now live in Everett. Through these experiences, I’ve cultivated a deep appreciation for pragmatic solutions, individual responsibility, and the importance of fostering opportunities for all.

In my column, I aim to address a range of topics: local governance, economic policy, cultural trends and beyond. I will be focused on Washington state and Snohomish County. A regional perspective is vastly more important to your life than what is occurring in the other Washington. While my viewpoint leans conservative, my goal is not to stroke division but to encourage understanding and discussion. I believe in the power of respectful dialogue and the exchange of ideas, and I welcome readers from all perspectives to engage with my writing.

As we navigate the complexities of our modern world, I’ll strive to bring you commentary that’s informed, balanced and grounded in principle. I hope to shine a light on our community’s challenges and opportunities with a commitment to solutions promoting prosperity and liberty.

Thank you for allowing me to be in your homes and have conversations. I look forward to the journey ahead and invite you to share your thoughts and ideas as we explore these critical issues together.

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Opinion

Monroe’s Betzy Garcia celebrates scoring a touchdown against Everett during the game on Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Editorial: School levies, bonds invest in future of students

Several school districts seek the support of voters for levies and bonds in the Feb. 10 election.

toon
Editorial cartoons for Thursday, Jan. 29

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

Everett schoola bond, levy ensure quality education

My children attended Jackson Elementary, Evergreen Middle School and Everett High. Back… Continue reading

Everett High students’ walk-out wasn’t a civics lesson

The Everett High School students are protesting once again (“Everett High students… Continue reading

Vote yes for Everett Public Schools bond and levy

Leading up to Feb. 10 voters have the opportunity to approve a… Continue reading

Comment: What’s the endgame for Trump’s blue cities offensive?

Embolden by perceived success, the administration may escalate against protesters, only increasing uncertainty.

Gessen: This is what state terror looks like

A regime based on terror deploys violence to reinforce the message that no one is safe.

People read newspapers from the library selection at the Everett Public Library on Thursday, April 3, 2025 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Editorial: Continue discussion on local journalism support

State lawmakers should reconsider legislation that can aid newspapers and other news sources.

toon
Editorial cartoons for Wednesday, Jan. 28

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

Burke: Recalling heroes of battles past, as the threat rises

Those who defended freedom made the sacrifices required. Are we prepared to protect our democracy?

Lozada: Trump’s fantasy pursuit of ‘hotness’ is killing Americans

For Trump, being ‘hot’ isn’t about poll numbers or a good economy; it’s about constantly holding attention.

Portrayal of federal agents as Nazis offensive

Two things were contrasted in the Everett Herald recently. One was Homeland… Continue reading

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.