Ranker has experience, skills to hit the ground running
It’s relatively rare that I meet a candidate for local public office who is intelligent, engages on the issues and really cares about understanding policy. That’s why there’s only one local candidate that I’m working for this election cycle: Kevin Ranker.

Kevin Ranker, who’s running for the Washington State Senate to replace the retiring Harriet Spanel, has distinguished himself as a San Juan County Commissioner dedicated to bridging the gap between encouraging local economies and common sense policies that protect the environment at the same time.

As chair of the Puget Sound Salmon Recovery Council and as a Northwest Straits Commissioner, Kevin has significantly advanced protection and enhancement of our marine environment and economy. The 14 coastal counties in our state elected him their chair, and the entire association of counties elected him chair of their transportation committee.

In those positions Kevin has spent nearly every week of the last session in Olympia, working for legislation to benefit our district. Even as a freshman senator, Kevin will be well-prepared to take on the challenges and champion our issues.

Kevin has a remarkable ability to bring people together and forge consensus on the issues that are important to counties like ours. That’s why he’s the sole nominee and endorsee of the Democratic Party for the 40th District Senate seat, and that’s why he’ll do a great job as our next 40th District state senator.
Ryan Walters
Anacortes

Commissioner candidates too wishy-washy
Bill Turner (developer and builder contractor) and Ron Wesen (dairy farmer) spoke at the South Fidalgo commissioner candidate forum last week. It disturbs me that both Turner and Wesen refuse to take a position on South Fidalgo, and allow the elected South Fidalgo Community Council to be included in the planning of the South Fidalgo sub-area plan.

It also disturbs me that they cannot take a positive position on the Guemes Ferry schedule issue. They continue to state that “they need to study the issues more,” “that these things are complicated,” etc, etc.

It’s hardly that complicated! The majority of Guemes residents do not want the ferry’s extended hours. I feel that both Turner and Wesen want to be politicians rather than advocates for the people.

We have had a big mess in this county because of self-serving politicians who “talk the talk instead of walking the walk.” It’s time we elect someone who will be an advocate for the people and who will truly serve the people.
Al Jett
Anacortes

Vote for Henderson: We need a sharp, compassionate state senator
Ken Henderson has been a friend for over 20 years. Whether working with the Whatcom County Council, backpacking in the Cascades or sailing in the ocean, Ken is a problem solver. He is inventive and resourceful. Good traits for a senator.

Ken enjoys learning. He continually expanded his optometry skills and knowledge, is a licensed airplane pilot and is still attempting to learn ballroom dancing. He studies and does his homework. Good traits for a senator.

Ken is compassionate. He has provided free care for seniors, low-income families and those less fortunate. He does things from the heart and doesn’t expect a return. Good traits for a senator.

Ken has the integrity and experience to represent you in Olympia. Please join me in voting for Ken Henderson, 40th District state senator.
Trudie Goodman
Bellingham