The Municipal League of King County recently rated nearly 50 candidates running for local races in King County.

For Kirkland’s 48th Legislative District, the league rated incumbent Democratic legislator Patty Kuderer “good.” Her challenger, Libertarian Michelle Darnell was also rated good, while Richard Knierim, an Independent Democrat, received an “adequate” rating.

The “good” rating means that the candidate has been active and effective in many roles, is capable of moving people to production action, has a strong record of participation in problem solving and shows satisfactory commitment to tackling issues, according to the Municipal League.

An “adequate” rating shows that the candidate has a record of participation and interest, is effective on specific issues, has provoked questions about suitability as an office holder, but will need significant time/energy to fill gaps in knowledge.

Other league ratings include outstanding, very good, not qualified and insufficient information.

The Municipal League’s ratings are an evaluation of the candidates ability to be effective in office and not an endorsement. The ratings provide voters with unbiased, citizen driven information to inform their vote, according to the league.

During the rating process, volunteers throughout the county reviewed candidate questionnaires, studied the public record, spoke with the candidates’ references and conducted interviews with the candidates. Volunteers assessed each candidate on their involvement, effectiveness and their character and knowledge.

A full list of the candidate ratings and candidate questionnaires, can be found at www.munileagueratings.org.