Since 2011, Democrat Sharon Wylie has effectively represented the interests and the values of the 49th Legislative District. The Columbian’s Editorial Board recommends that Wylie be reelected in November.
As always, this is a recommendation, designed to foster discussion and provide information. The Columbian trusts that voters will study the issues before casting an informed ballot.
In Wylie, voters will find a candidate who embraces progressive policies. She is outspoken in her support for reproductive rights and writes on her campaign website: “We’ve made progress on a lot of important issues such as sex education, campaign finance reform, transportation, domestic abuse and sexual violence.” She adds, “But many issues still need attention.”
Wylie also focuses on equity and diversity, writing, “Each generation must recognize the harm caused by racism, violence, sexism, and bullying, and our responsibility to honor our shared values.”
During an interview with the Editorial Board, Wylie said, “I’m more of a generalist than a specialist. I’m a big-picture person.”
That broad view has helped her take a leading role in efforts to build a replacement Interstate 5 Bridge while remaining pragmatic. “There’s nothing that’s going to be perfect about this bridge,” she said. “It’s going to be the best we can do.”
Wylie also was instrumental in securing funding for the development and construction of the Bridgeview Resource Center, which connects people to employment, education and health resources and is located in the Vancouver Heights neighborhood.
Throughout her work, Wylie demonstrates a deep understanding of how government actions have long-term impacts. When asked about homelessness throughout the state, she notes that changes in federal policy – a reduction in funding for housing construction and the closing of mental health institutions – have contributed to the current crisis.
That is one example of Wylie’s understanding of the issues, and it sets her apart from her challenger, Republican Brett Graham.
Graham was not available to meet with the Editorial Board, but during a candidate forum sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Clark County, he did not demonstrate the depth of knowledge necessary to deal with pressing issues. For example, he was not clear on the purpose or the function of school bonds.
On his campaign website, Graham lists public safety, financial accountability and education as priorities. These are, indeed, important topics for residents of the 49th District, but they require some level of expertise rather than detail-free overviews.
While Graham would be working to develop an understanding of government if he is elected, Wylie will be digging into the details of meaningful legislation if voters return her to Olympia.
Legislative minutiae does not often grab headlines, but it is important for an effective legislator. So is experience. As Wylie said, “In some ways, I’m an institutional memory.”
Because of that, The Columbian’s Editorial Board recommends Sharon Wylie as a clear choice for reelection as state representative from the 49th District, Position 1.