Editor,

Citizens of the 10th Legislative District are very fortunate to have a senator who has deep roots in the district. Sen. Ron Muzzall has lived his entire life in this district on Whidbey Island. Of the current 10th District legislators, Sen. Muzzall is the only one who is a true “local.” In a phone call with Rep. Paul prior to the 2020 election, he said his only previous “elected” experience was as an appointed school board member in another state. He is definitely not a lifelong resident of this area. It is a well-known fact that Rep. Clyde Shavers has no connection to or history in the 10th District.

Sen. Muzzall knows the needs and concerns of his constituents. That enables him to be an effective voice in Olympia for those he represents. One example is the money he was able to secure for school facilities in Oak Harbor. From the Washington State Capitol Budget $13.9 million for the Early Learning Center and $13.6 million for Crescent Harbor Elementary was allocated in the last legislative session. Once the state funds were approved, that unlocked federal money for a total of $145.5 million. Senator Muzzall was aware of the need and effectively used his position to benefit the students and community of Oak Harbor.

How valuable is it to have a senator who is not only truly local but also one who votes his conscience based on his core values and integrity?

To be informed voters be sure to read the fine print on campaign flyers. It will tell you who paid for the flyers. The “hit piece” aimed at Sen. Muzzall that we received in the mail on Oct. 3 was paid for by New Direction PAC, 401 Second Avenue South, Seattle, WA 98104. Don’t be fooled into thinking that a political action group based in the Seattle area knows or cares about the needs of the 10th Legislative District.

Cast your vote for incumbent Sen. Ron Muzzall, who knows and cares about the 10th District.

Claudia Talmadge

Oak Harbor