Even as seven candidates crowded into the race for the 18th Legislative District’s state representative, the top choices in the Aug. 17 primary were easily identified. The Columbian listed Republican political consultant Ann Rivers as the best choice, and we described Democrat Dennis Kampe, a jobs training center director, as qualified to join her in the fall finals.
Voters agreed, and for more than a month, a hard-fought showdown between the finalists has emerged. This has been to the benefit of folks in Felida, Salmon Creek, Ridgefield, Battle Ground, north Clark County, Camas, Washougal and most of Cowlitz County as they seek a replacement for Republican Jaime Herrera, who is running for Congress.
Our opinion in this tough battle remains unchanged. Rivers offers the most promise for voters in a traditionally conservative district and is endorsed in the Nov. 2 election. She has experience in four key areas: As a lobbyist, Rivers knows how legislation is crafted in Olympia. As a resident of La Center, she understands the needs of north Clark County. As a former candidate for appointment to this post (in 2007 she was a finalist for the appointment that went to Herrera), Rivers knows how decisions are made in the 18th. And as a Republican, she has the credentials to extend the 18th’s legislative clout that is anchored by two other GOP lawmakers. Ridgefield state Sen. Joe Zarelli is ranking Republican in the state Senate’s budgetary deliberations, and the influence of state Rep. Ed Orcutt of Kalama is demonstrated in the conservative 18th by the fact he’s running unopposed this year.
Rivers properly understands that budget problems are best solved by reducing spending. She knows that state Auditor Brian Sonntag has shown where millions of dollars can be saved, as specified in performance audits. Rivers also boasts a can-do, engaging personality that can help build coalitions in the Legislature.
