What is the magic combination that would lead to accomplishment and efficiency in Olympia? If we knew the answer to that, we’d be willing to tackle the rest of life’s truly mysterious questions.
While we’re sure the state’s political parties think they know the answer, we’d settle for legislative representatives who can accomplish something in one session, instead of accomplishing nothing in three extra sessions.
It’s encouraging, then, to see that the 38th District boasts two strong candidates in Erv Hoglund and Jean Berkey. A general election campaign pitting Republican Hoglund against Democrat Berkey will give voters two fine choices.
Berkey is a clear choice in the Democratic Party. She was appointed to fill the vacancy created when Rep. Pat Scott died in January. Years spent working on others’ campaigns helped her decide that she wanted to shape policy. Berkey said she spent the last session working hard to learn issues and served on the finance committee. Right now, the tax system is a temporary fix, not an overall solution to the problem. The state just doesn’t have enough revenue now to do everything that needs to be done, she said. Berkey understands the concerns surrounding Boeing’s move and our state’s major transportation problems and the need to move goods and people effectively. She is also a strong proponent of vocational school and retraining programs. Berkey said she believes people will support taxes when they know what’s going to happen with them and can see the results.
Berkey’s Democratic primary opponent is Randall Rike, a former Boeing aircraft electrician, who has worked in many fields during the years and is a strong supporter of labor. Rike, an amateur historian, would like to serve on the education committee and supports K-12 programs. Rike said his experience with various political parties would help alleviate the stalemate in Olympia.
Hoglund, who has no primary opposition, ran in 1998 on the same platform, he said, but for different reasons. Before, the retired Navy commander and airline captain simply wanted to help the Republican Party platform. This go-around, his focus is on the budget and the financial future of the state. And he appears to have done his homework. He has a clear grasp on the complexities of the transportation issue and understands the various proposals. He also knows it’s time to end the vicious circle of initiatives choking the Legislature because of public frustration over politicians’ inaction — as we saw so clearly this last session. Hoglund believes the budget must come in line with revenue and that will require a combination of increases and cuts to get things under control. Getting voters’ confidence is key, he stresses. He also emphasizes a sound business economy.
A fourth candidate, Libertarian Thomas Kinnebrew, is also on the ballot.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
