Letter: Community loses in election

Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler’s reelection for Congress that fell short to Joe Kent’s challenge is a loss for conservatives nationally but more importantly a great loss for Southwest Washington.

I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and interacting with Jaime Herrera Beutler a few times over the past five years, most recently in May of this year. She is an engaging, personable champion of conservative values and effective advocate for Southwest Washingtonians.

Jaime had the respect of her Democratic colleagues, thereby secured funds to benefit her constituents that would have otherwise been allocated elsewhere.

Jaime is from here, has established relationships with folks on both sides of the political aisle, so we were all winners.

Kent has no roots in Southwest Washington. What means does he have to draw from to build relationships here from the ground up, advocate or bring calm to the political divide? Will he have a voice that either party will welcome?

Kent was a gamble for those who rightly feel that their voices don’t matter. Too late will they realize they voted out the one who shared their values, was a measured, quiet, but effective voice. Instead rolled the political dice for one who, if he makes it to D.C., will most likely be relegated to the sidelines.