The Herald’s editorial endorsements for the 10th Legislative District promotes more of the status quo in Olympia with the endorsement of Sen. Mary Margaret Haugen. The endorsement indicates that “seasoned political leaders with a record of working across the aisle are at a premium these days” and claims that Sen. Haugen, who has represented the 10th district for more than two decades, is such a leader. The Herald notes that Sen. Haugen has proven to be a tough negotiator as chair and now ranking minority member of the Senate Transportation Committee. Anyone who either commutes from the 10th district or drives on I-5 from Stanwood through Everett can attest to the mess of our highway transportation system.
I recently received a campaign flyer from Sen. Haugen, which highlights her achievements and the reference to transportation states that “Mary Margaret has fought for safety improvements on dozens of local roads, including a lane widening project just outside of Oak Harbor.” I am definitely not challenging the need for the project in Oak Harbor, but I think Sen. Haugen is part of the overall transportation problem. During her last election campaign, I attended a forum in Everett where the senator fielded questions from the audience. After repeated questions on the transportation disaster, Sen. Haugen basically said yes, there’s a problem, but it will take money – lots of money – to fix it.
As a taxpayer, I want results and I do not think we can have progress with politicians such as Sen. Haugen who are entrenched in always thinking the answer to problems is more money. It is time for change and accountability. April Axthelm is definitely the right choice.
Billye Brooks
Arlington
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