Switching my vote for secretary of state to Tarleton

I voted for Kim Wyman as Washington’s Secretary of State in the past for several reasons, including the endorsements from The Herald. I am not proud to state that one of my reasons was to allow me to boast that I vote a split ticket.

This year, after I had to refile as a precinct committee officer, I carefully compared Wyman’s words and public announcements with her actions.

I now support Gael Tarleton for Secretary of State because I think she will best support my belief that “democracy works best when we all vote.”

Wyman’s first words in her Congressional testimony provided her a great sound bite about our successful vote-by-mail system in Washington. Most of her remaining testimony was to discourage other states from following our lead.

Wyman’s canceling, not postponing, the April election led to multiple school levy failures in the August primary. School districts needed to re-spend thousands of dollars for pre-election education on the issues.

Gael Tarleton has an extensive and relevant experience in cybersecurity and national security, a crucial issue for fair elections now.

Gael Tarleton has demonstrated a commitment to expanding voting rights and voter participation

Gael Tarleton has an impressive track record of administering, organizing, working with others (including Republicans in her role as State Representative) to successfully complete complex and large-scoped projects.

Gary McCaig

Lynnwood