State Rep. Mark Harmsworth deserves thanks

With our politics more divisive than ever, it’s easy for candidates and their teams to get caught up in the red-versus-blue tribalism of campaigns. Too often, political differences turn into personal disdain.

While we have political differences, State Rep. Mark Harmsworth, R-Mill Creek, and I always maintained respect for one another during our campaigns this year. Following the election, he even called me to concede, something he’s not obligated to do.

I want to thank Mark for a civil campaign, and for his service to the people of south Snohomish County and the 44th Legislative District. Campaigns are not easy, but neither is being a legislator. He sacrificed many hours away from his family to serve in Olympia, and for that he deserves our gratitude.

It shouldn’t matter whether you are a Republican or a Democrat; both sides have good ideas. And as long as we show civility and respect for one another, we can work together to improve people’s lives.

Thank you for your service Rep. Mark Harmsworth.

Jared Mead

Mill Creek

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 Thursday, April 18

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

Snow dusts the treeline near Heather Lake Trailhead in the area of a disputed logging project on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, outside Verlot, Washington. (Ryan Berry / The Herald)
Editorial: Move ahead with state forests’ carbon credit sales

A judge clears a state program to set aside forestland and sell carbon credits for climate efforts.

State needs to assure better rail service for Amtrak Cascades

The Puget Sound region’s population is expected to grow by 4 million… Continue reading

Trump’s own words contradict claims of Christian faith

In a recent letter to the editor regarding Christians and Donald Trump,… Continue reading

Comment: Israel should choose reasoning over posturing

It will do as it determines, but retaliation against Iran bears the consequences of further exchanges.

Comment: Ths slow but sure progress of Brown v. Board

Segregation in education remains, as does racism, but the case is a milestone of the 20th century.

toon
Editorial cartoons for Wednesday, April 17

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

A new apple variety, WA 64, has been developed by WSU's College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences. The college is taking suggestions on what to name the variety. (WSU)
Editorial: Apple-naming contest fun celebration of state icon

A new variety developed at WSU needs a name. But take a pass on suggesting Crispy McPinkface.

Apply ‘Kayden’s Law’ in Washington’s family courts

Next session, our state Legislature must pass legislation that clarifies how family… Continue reading

What religious icons will Trump sell next?

My word! So now Donald Trump is in the business of selling… Continue reading

Commen: ‘Civil War’ movie could prompt some civil discourse

The dystopian movie serves to warn against division and for finding common ground in our concerns.

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.