I urge all Democrats in the 17th Legislative District to carefully examine the candidates running for Position 1. Despite having two competent Democratic candidates, Don Orange and Rob Frisina, the state House Democrat Campaign organization, headed by a Kirkland state representative, is providing only candidate Sam Kim with both staff and financial resources.
Kim announced in February he would run as a Republican, caucused with Clark County Republicans, and told The Columbian on May 16 that he was a “life-long Republican.” On May 18 he declared he would run as a self-described “independent Democrat.” His website states Kim stands for “safety and security — including our constitutional right to bear arms.”
Orange, a local small-business owner, is best known for his efforts to oppose the proposed oil terminal at the Port of Vancouver and to support the Affordable Care Act, equal pay and paid sick leave. Frisina is smart, articulate and passionate, and was energized by the Bernie Sanders movement.
Don’t let the state party hijack the 17th District. Vote for a candidate who has endorsed Democratic core values for longer than two months.
