Voters in the 49th Legislative District will choose between two politically-aligned Democratic candidates this November for the Position 2 seat. But their district-running mates, also both Democrats, have decided to announce their endorsement now: Vancouver City Councilor Alishia Topper.
Topper is running against Monica Stonier, a former lawmaker.
It’s a slight departure for fellow Democrats — and Stonier’s former colleagues — to voice support in a Democrat-versus-Democrat race. Both Stonier and Topper have impressive résumés.
“The bottom line for me is this: Alishia Topper has proven herself to be the candidate who is straightforward, hardworking and a champion for the 49th,” said Sen. Annette Cleveland, Vancouver, who is also seeking re-election. If she wins, she will serve with either Topper or Stonier.
Rep. Sharon Wylie, Vancouver, representing the 49th Legislative District, Position 1, in the state House, said she recognized Topper was a rising political star.
“I promised Alishia a long time ago … when she was ready to move on, I would do everything I could to help her,” Wylie said.
But this is politics. So, of course there’s more to the story.
Cleveland also alleged Stonier has been working on a back-door campaign to undermine her and Wylie, by criticizing their leadership efforts.
“I don’t understand it,” Cleveland said.
In response, Stonier said she has “no intention of ever undermining any of their good work.”
“I have a lot of respect for the work the senator has done and Sharon, as well. I’ve said that many times,” Stonier said. “I think I can bring something to the team, which is why I’m running.”
Stonier represented the 17th Legislative District before moving to the 49th District. She is a former middle school teacher and currently is an instructional coach at Pacific Middle School.
Stonier and Topper are vying for the seat held by longtime Rep. Jim Moeller, D-Vancouver, who is bidding to unseat U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Camas.
Cleveland said she considered several questions before making a decision about supporting a candidate: “Do they have integrity, what qualities do they bring to the job? Are they going to be positive? Problem-solvers? Respectful? Are they going to add to the conversation?”
Cleveland also noted that while serving in the Legislature, Stonier voted against a revenue package that included funding for the now-defunct Columbia River Crossing project.
Topper said she’s pleased to have the candidates’ support.
“I’m honored to have Sen. Cleveland and Rep. Wylie’s endorsement and support,” Topper said. “I believe it’s because they know the leadership I’ve provided on the city council and my deep understanding of how the policies will impact our neighborhoods and people of our district.”
