On Being "John Kerry-ed"

Well it appears that there will be a contest for the privledge of being "the Democrat" on the primary ballot for Snohomish County's 5th County Council District. On June 4th, PCOs from the 5th Council District will gather at a "nominating convention" to choose between former County Councilman, Dave Somers and returning Iraqi Invasion veteran, Steven Hobbs.

Dave is vying for the opportunity to reclaim his seat that was lost to republican, Jeff Sax after he was painted as too liberal in light of the new "war on terror". In addition, a large influx of money from the Master Builder's Association came pouring in during the closing weeks of the campaign to "highlight" Dave's ties to the dreaded environmental community. At a recent meeting of the 44th Legislative District Democrats, Dave was able to speak as he sought the LD's endorsement in this race (It was a unanimous vote to endorse). He spoke of his previous time on the council; where he was elected Chair by the other members of the council. He spoke of his commitment to blending economic opportunity with responsible environmental policy. He pointed to the fact that he has remained active in the county with various groups working on alternate energy sources and plans to increase agricultural opportunities. He addressed the issues of increased crime both drug and hate related in the more rural areas of the county and how, Mr. Sax would have to defend his record of budget cuts for law enforcement. Stating that he was proud to wear the Progressive "label", he mentioned the support he is receiving from groups like Progressive Majority and endorsements from individuals like Rep. Hans Dunshee of the 44th LD and Congressman Jay Inslee.

Later, in that same meeting, Mr. Hobbs was allowed to address the group to "introduce himself" and to launch his campaign. Although he has been out of the county for much of the past nine years, albeit performing honorable service to our country, he said he is happy to have the opportunity to "come home" and serve the citizens of the 5th Council District. Most of his talk centered on his military service as he began by recognizing a fellow Iraqi vet who just happened to be there for the meeting. He went on to say that his campaign manager would soon be on board when his tour in Iraq was completed and that the campaign would be handled with military precision. His platform was sparse on details except that he would go on "ride alongs" with the Sherrif's Department to witness first hand the War on Meth in Snohomish County. He listed among his early endorsers, County Executive Aaron Reardon and Mayor of Snohomish, Liz Loomis. Hmmm........Let's see. A record of accomplishment and experience or a war hero...........A division between the more Progressive elements of the party and the DLC inspired crowd........Where have I seen this before????

In a direct relationship to this race, the competition to recruit new PCOs in the 5th Council District has grown fierce as Somers and Hobbs have just over a week (May 24th) to pad their voting base before the "nominating convention." It will be interesting to see how the newly minted PCOs in this district come down on this important vote.

Chad (The Left) Shue