I sought out Kevin Haistings after I attended my first town hall meeting earlier this year with the incumbent legislators. I had gone expecting a dialogue, but my representatives were not interested in our opinions; they were there to tell us what is good for us. They told us they had to cut spending and raise taxes because we were in a dreadful shortfall. Still, Kevin’s opponent advocated for an expensive public day care system. When asked how he would reconcile that massive additional cost with our budget shortfall, he insisted it would save money! Additionally, Kevin’s opponent promised not to raise sales taxes. His aide made that promise even while he voted to overturn I-960.

Haistings is a breath of fresh air; he has demonstrated that he is interested in doing what’s important for us, the citizens of the 45th District. Haistings is a principled family man who will listen to all sides. He is a proven leader who will bring sensible new ideas and energy to Olympia. As a sergeant in the Seattle Police Department, he was the president of the Seattle Police Officers’ Guild where he worked hard to balance the needs of the union with those of the state.

Haistings will focus on creating jobs and streamlining government. He will make it harder to raise taxes. He will work hard to balance our spending to meet revenue without turning to the taxpayer every time someone suggests adding to the state budget. Haistings will make education funding a priority, including streamlining the process so more funds get from Olympia into the actual schools. While his opponent wants to legalize marijuana, Haistings is dedicated to keeping Washington a wholesome, family-friendly state. I urge you to join me in voting for Haistings.

Jeanie D. McCombs, Kirkland