What distinguishes the three Democrats running for the open 24th Legislative District state House seat?
Nate Tyler’s experience comes from growing up in Neah Bay and serving on the Makah Tribal Council.
He focuses on justice for small communities, particularly the West End, and wants to attract more funding there.
He doesn’t seem as focused on some larger issues facing the state and district or with the trade-offs that must be faced when you want to redirect resources.
Adam Bernbaum’s experience comes largely from serving as a legislative aide to Kevin Van De Wege during which he became conversant with the state’s broad issues.
He apparently moved into the district to run for office and his individual contributions largely come from out of the state and district. His main financial backing comes from big business and the building trades.
Like his mentor, he seems to have a transactional approach to governing, whereby deals are made that both help advance your agenda and increase your influence.
Eric Pickens grew up on the Peninsula’s east side, joined the Coast Guard, entered the business world, then opted for service as a teacher.
Realizing all the community facets needed to raise healthy children, he expanded his service as both Port Angeles teachers’ union president and Sequim school board chair.
His support comes from teachers’ and other service unions, plus a host of small donations from mostly within the district.
Of the three, Eric Pickens seems best positioned to represent us all for the greatest good.
Ed Chadd
Port Angeles