Voters who desire thoughtful representation instead of strident rhetoric will find a worthy candidate in Democrat Adrian Cortes. The Columbian’s Editorial Board recommends Cortes for state senator from the 18th Legislative District.
As always, this is merely a recommendation, designed to provide information and foster discussion. Voters should examine the issues and the candidates before casting a vote for the candidate who will effectively represent their district. The winner will succeed Republican Ann Rivers, who did not seek reelection.
In Cortes, voters will find a candidate who is thoughtful, has a clear grasp of the issues and firmly expresses his opinion while remaining open to differing views. During an interview with the Editorial Board, for example, he talked about his opposition to a ballot measure that would repeal the state’s capital gains tax.
“It provides important revenue for childcare, subsidies for parents,” he said. “When you do both of those, you unleash the economic potential of those parents.”
Regarding the state’s Climate Commitment Act, which also is facing repeal, Cortes said, “Inflation is not being driven up by the CCA; that’s a red herring.” He noted that inflation has been a national issue.
Cortes stresses his support for reproductive rights, writing on his website, “I believe that bodily autonomy and a woman’s right to choose is between an individual and their doctor, not the government.” While it is unlikely that Washington would consider abortion bans that have been found in Republican-dominated states, he writes, “Make no mistake, women’s healthcare and reproductive freedoms are on the ballot this year in Washington state.”
Meanwhile, he stresses fiscal responsibility, taking aim at a trope often used to target Democrats: “As Battle Ground mayor, I passed the largest tax cut in city history, saving taxpayers $1.5 million dollars in utility bills, and passed a ban on local income taxes while also balancing the budget, funding law enforcement and fixing roads.”
In addition to experience as Battle Ground mayor and city councilor, Cortes works as a special education teacher, giving him valuable insight regarding education policy and funding.
Such experience and thoughtfulness stands in contrast to Cortes’ opponent, Republican Brad Benton.
Benton, the son of former legislator Don Benton, is basing his election hopes on a series of confrontational positions. He has referred to the prospect of light rail on a new Interstate 5 Bridge as a “one-way homeless superhighway” – ignoring the fact that light rail runs two directions and that Clark County already has many homeless people. Stoking unfounded fear is not the hallmark of an effective leader.
He also writes that, “I will never vote for a tax increase, under any circumstances, period!” While some voters might be attracted to such a proclamation, they would be better served by an official who considers the issues rather than adhering to purity tests. With staunch opposition to tolls on a new bridge, Benton demonstrates little understanding that projects to enhance our community require funding. So do schools and public safety and social services.
Benton, who declined to meet with the Editorial Board, writes, “I am ready to go to Olympia and fight for my community, my neighbors, and for you.”
Constituents are better served by officials who work for them rather than viewing their office as a battle ground. The Columbian’s Editorial Board recommends Adrian Cortes for state senator from the 18th District.
