Through two years in the state House of Representatives and four more in the state Senate, Ann Rivers, R-La Center, has demonstrated an ability to roll up her sleeves and do the hard work of solving problems. The Columbian’s Editorial Board recommends a vote for Rivers in her race against Democrat Eric Holt for senator from the 18th Legislative District.
As always, this is merely a recommendation. The Columbian has faith in the ability and the desire of voters to examine the candidates and the issues before making an informed vote.
In looking at Rivers’ legislative history, they will find somebody who is willing to dig into the details of legislation — a trait that marks her as a moderate Republican in an era often tinged with ideological rigidity. It also is a trait that marks her as somebody willing to stake out risky political positions rather than clinging to the safe harbor of demagoguery.
For example, Rivers voted in favor of an increase to the gas tax in 2015, a bill designed to raise $16 billion for transportation projects. While it might have been politically expedient to oppose any tax increase as a matter of principle — as some Republicans from Southwest Washington did — Rivers understood that climbing on board would help deliver construction projects for her district. She demonstrated the kind of pragmatism that is beneficial to her constituents.
For another example, Rivers took the lead in the difficult task of forging legislation to reconcile the state’s new recreational marijuana market with its existing medical marijuana system. It was the kind of nonglamorous work that often does not produce campaign-worthy sound bites, but it was necessary for helping the state to move forward in a logical manner.
When it comes to lawmaking, being a policy wonk such as Rivers often leaves legislators open to criticism. If you take the lead on difficult issues, sooner or later a voter is going to find fault with your actions. We strongly disagreed with Rivers’ opposition to the Columbia River Crossing, but it is time to look ahead, as Rivers appears to be doing.
Holt, meanwhile, takes umbrage with Rivers’ stance on the CRC. As a former truck driver who now is a regional safety coordinator for Gilmour and Company, he notes the pressing need to replace the Interstate 5 Bridge and views such a project as a valuable investment for the future of the region. He also adds that he would support the extension of light rail into Clark County.
Holt is a thoughtful and well-spoken challenger who stresses the need for a “citizen Legislature” comprised of people with real-world experience who can ensure that “regulations work for companies.” He stresses a desire to seek public consensus on volatile issues and adds that “increased taxes won’t help people.”
However, Rivers’ record suggests that she is deserving of another term in Olympia. Of note, the Clark County Republican Party, which has demonstrated little desire to embrace or even consider compromise, has chosen to not endorse her re-election bid. Given the state of the local Republican Party, we consider this a mark in the “plus” column for Rivers.
For any voters who are paying attention, eventually Rivers is going to take a stand that you will disagree with. But along the way she will do the hard work necessary to actually develop legislation and get it passed. The Columbian recommends a vote for Ann Rivers as state senator from the 18th District.
