System reduces voter choice

The “counterproductive idea” that Hans Dunshee would oppose Steve Hobbs for the Senate (Tuesday editorial) or that Mark Roe would oppose Jim Kenny for prosecutor, shows how the Top 2 primary reduces voter choice.

Party rules say that two Democrats can’t both run for the same partisan office at the same time, regardless of what party they say they prefer.

Next May, the Democratic precinct committee officers (PCOs) will vote to nominate the Democratic candidate in each partisan race. Precincts without PCOs will get zero votes, unless a PCO gets appointed.

The Top 2 system gives the PCOs more power than ever to select partisan candidates even before they file for office. Pick-a-party wasn’t great, but at least we heard from everyone.

Rick DeWitt

Chair, 44th LD Democrats

Mill Creek

Talk to us

More in Opinion

Sen. June Robinson, D-Everett, left, and Sen. Mark Mullet, D-Issaquah, right, embrace after a special session to figure out how much to punish drug possession on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, in Olympia, Wash. Without action, Washington's drug possession law will expire July 1, leaving no penalty in state law and leaving cities free to adopt a hodgepodge of local ordinances.  (Karen Ducey/The Seattle Times via AP)
Editorial: Robinson smart choice to head Senate budget panel

A 10-year legislative veteran, the Everett senator displays a mastery of legislation and negotiation.

toon
Editorial cartoons for Tuesday, Sept. 26

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

Randall Tharp’s month recovery coins after battling a fentanyl addiction.  (Kevin Clark / The Herald)
Fentanyl crisis should force rethinking of approach

A continuum of care, that includes treatment in jails, is imperative, says a journalist and author.

Flowers bloom on the end of a dead tree on Spencer Island on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Editorial: Restore salmon habitat but provide view of its work

Comments are sought on a plan to restore fish habitat to the island east of Everett with popular trails.

School buses need seat belts and limits on capacity

My name is Grace Davis and I am a seventh-grade middle schooler… Continue reading

Congress must reauthorize funding act for Alzheimer’s research

With more than 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease, including 120,000… Continue reading

Comment: Democrats have nothing to gain by backing Menendez

Unlike the loss of Al Franken, encouraging the New Jersey senator to go doesn’t cost the Democrats much.

Comment: Amid union victories, labor still faces big challenges

Federal regulations, such as the Taft-Hartley Act, have long stymied labor’s efforts to gain members.

Comment: Desantis’ $2 gas pledge should terrify Texas

He can’t get there unless oil is trading below $55 a barrel; nobdy wants to revisit those days.

Most Read