5TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS

 One of my first political jobs was working on a gubernatorial campaign in South Dakota.  During that campaign, people said the Democrat was a nice guy, but they were going to vote for the Republican because “at least they knew he was a criminal.”  

This early lesson was that even though voters have an expectation of good government -- to keep them safe, to build roads, teach their kids and to offer support in times of crisis -- somehow anyone involved in politics is morally suspect and probably a crook.  

This sentiment was true even in the new democracies of Hungary and the Czech Republic, which Chris and I visited last month. I asked some locals about how their lives have changed since the fall of Communism.  The reaction was mixed, though the consensus was that the politicians were inept, corrupt, and only acting out of a self-interested desire for money or power.  Many don’t vote.

Politics can be ugly, but that ugliness is exactly why its essential to be involved -- to help the “good guys” win, to get good policy and good government.  To rally for healthcare, transportation, and the environment.  And to defeat hateful efforts like Referendum 71.

Our endorsement meeting on June 17 is your opportunity to support good policy, and good government.  Take a look at the candidates, listen to what they say, see who they surround themselves with and ask yourself, “What would happen if I called her with a concern?”  Lots of information is available about them on our website.  And don’t forget--the Eastside King County Executive Candidate Forum June 25th!

Next, look ahead to 2010, and think about who you want to run for legislature and ask them to run.  Vote with your voice and your time and your dollars, in the 5th Dems and for individual campaigns.  If we don’t support the good, well, we shouldn’t be surprised that the Republican governor I mentioned later spent time in prison.  ‘Nuff said.