Last week, I attempted to talk to Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Battle Ground, at her office in Vancouver during August recess but was given the runaround by both of her aides. They could not tell me when I would be able to speak to her in person. I was told to sign up for a slot. When asked if I’d be able to speak to her directly, one aide said, “Sign up and we’ll let you know.”
I asked about Herrera Beutler’s stance on stricter gun control measures. Her aide said, “She’s made several statements and we can send the material to you.” I asked three times and got the same answer. Then I asked about her stance on banning assault weapons. Aide: “It depends on what you mean by assault weapon.” I mean, really?
My congressional representative gives the impression of being above it all and not responsible for engaging with her constituents. That’s what our tax dollars are paying for — an absent representative.
