Politicians as People
Conversations with our candidates
Washington County Candidates talk
about what inspires them
We are entering the election season which can be a time of joy-when we have good candidates, challenge-when we have too many good candidates, and frustration-when there is noone on the ballot you want to vote for. Our March 3 EWCDems meeting gave us a chance to hear from the Democratic and unaffiliated candidates for county wide offices: the DA- Brian Decker and Kevin Barton, auditor - Kristine Adams-Wannberg, and John Hutzler, and county commission chair - Kathryn Harrington and Beach Pace.
Candidates responded to two questions, telling us about an experience in their lives that influenced who they are and how they might govern and talking about a piece of legislation that they particularly liked. The stories were moving. All talked either about their own childhood or a child who has affected them. Legislation they were excited about included funding the Family Peace Center, reform of policy accountability. expanding the nursing pool by changes in the role of student nurses, farm worker equal pay, behavioral health funding and programs, and right to refuse consent to search. You can find a video of the whole discussion at the link below.
Actions we can take:
Thank you to all who joined us. A video of the meeting is available here.
Candidates responded to two questions, telling us about an experience in their lives that influenced who they are and how they might govern and talking about a piece of legislation that they particularly liked. The stories were moving. All talked either about their own childhood or a child who has affected them. Legislation they were excited about included funding the Family Peace Center, reform of policy accountability. expanding the nursing pool by changes in the role of student nurses, farm worker equal pay, behavioral health funding and programs, and right to refuse consent to search. You can find a video of the whole discussion at the link below.
Actions we can take:
- All of this only makes sense if we elect candidates who reflect our values. More and more money is flowing into elections and our best way to counter it is in conversations with our neighbors. Please sign up to be a Neighborhood Leader if you are not yet one. Most people find it takes little time. If you continue to do it over several years, you can build robust relationships with neighbors that helps them get out and vote (and frequently results in a greater sense of community). The databases are still being updated after redistricting. Those who have signed up should hear from someone in not too long about plans for this year. You can get more information and register here: https://washcodems.org/neighborhood-leader/
- If you liked what you heard from a candidate - look up their campaign website on google and sign up to work for them and/or donate to them.
Thank you to all who joined us. A video of the meeting is available here.
