Insurance post needs Kreidler

In replacing Deborah Senn as state insurance commissioner, Washington voters have a choice between two candidates who are likely to bring a quieter approach. At the same time, the Democratic and Republican candidates both are committed to continuing the cause of consumer advocacy.

Democratic candidate Mike Kreidler, a former congressman, offers voters a better choice in the race between two able candidates.

His Republican opponent is Don Davidson. Davidson has a record of public service with more than a dozen years on the Bellevue City Council and lengthy involvement with a variety of community organizations.

Both men are keenly aware of the issues facing consumers and insurance companies. And both have experience in providing health care, Davidson as a dentist and Kreidler as an optometrist.

Kreidler brings a lengthy record of intelligently addressing difficult public policy issues as a state legislator, member of Congress and a member of the Northwest Power Planning Council. More importantly, Kreidler has the advantage in terms of administrative experience. For 17 months, he was regional director for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, serving as the top manager for the agency in the Northwest. He was appointed by President Clinton in July 1998, resigning at the end of the following year to run for the insurance post. His policy background and administrative experience can be put to good use in an office that has seen its share of turbulent times under Senn.

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Opinion

toon
Editorial cartoons for Tuesday, July 15

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

2024 Presidential Election Day Symbolic Elements.
Editorial: Perkins, in strong field, best for Marysville council

The fifth-grade teacher hopes to improve outreach and participation with neighborhood meetings.

State should have given ferry contract to shipyard here

The state of Washington’s decision to award its newest ferry construction contract… Continue reading

Some Democrats did question Biden’s fitness to run

Recently, a letter to the editor said that Democrats would not say… Continue reading

Dowd: Trump’s good-looking Cabinet making him look bad

Trump’s toadies are keeping the truth from him and making decisions on their own that dog the president.

Goldberg: Why Nebraska may make GOP pay for its awful bill

It will be tough for Democrats to win the Senate, but an independent union leader could tip the balance.

Comment: Trump era will prove consequential; but as he hopes?

Trump has taken far-reaching steps in foreign and domestic policy. What follows will write his history.

toon
Editorial cartoons for Monday, July 14

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

Authorities search for victims among the rubble near Blue Oak RV park after catastrophic flooding on the Guadalupe River in Kerrville, Texas, on Sunday, July 6, 2025. The half-mile stretch occupied by two campgrounds appears to have been one of the deadliest spots along the Guadalupe River in Central Texas during last week’s flash floods. (Jordan Vonderhaar/The New York Times)
Editorial: Tragic Texas floods can prompt reforms for FEMA

The federal agency has an important support role to play, but Congress must reassess and improve it.

Comment: Midterm messaging fight for working class has begun

And Democrats have a head start thanks to the GOP’s all-in support for cuts to the social safety net.

Saunders: Considering attacks from left, ICE agents must mask

It’s not ideal, but with physical attacks against agents up 700%, the precaution is understandable.

Comment: GOP delayed worst of BBB’s cuts until after midterms

Republicans are counting on low-information voters’ party loyalty over their own financial interests.

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.