Hammond listens to the people of the 13th District

In this great democracy, voting is a privilege, hard won by our foremothers and fathers. I do my best to be informed on issues and focus on the best person to represent me, not on the party. In the upcoming midterm election, we have important choices to make in Legislative District 13. In comparing the candidates for Position No. 2, here is what I have found:

In January 2018, I ventured to our state capitol for my first visit to our legislators. Calls were made ahead for appointments, and my schedule was flexible. My issues of concern were/are drought, wildfires and birds. Who in L.D. 13 isn’t concerned about fire and drought? And who doesn’t like birds? Matt Manweller was rude and refused to meet with me, a concerned constituent. I have given Mr. Manweller amiable audiences many times in the past at my local service club, although I’ve found him to be egocentric, divisive and not open to hearing opposing opinions. I’ve learned over the decades that it is good to listen to all sides – you might learn something.

I should add that during my Olympia visit, I had welcoming visits and engaged conversations with Tom Dent and Judy Warnick.

I recently met Sylvia Hammond and found that she listens. She was interested in my issues and wanted to learn more. Sylvia respects her audience. I believe Sylvia is honest and has integrity, far above what I’ve experienced with Mr. Manweller. Sylvia’s experience as a teacher, a farmer and a mother gives her unique knowledge of the issues pressing her constituents. She has walked in the shoes of many of us in L.D. 13. This suits her for being a great representative for L.D. 13. She will be part of the solution, not the problem.

In weighing the options of who I want to represent me in Olympia, I’ll vote for Sylvia Hammond. I urge you to also.

Judy Hallisey

Cle Elum