This year’s presidential election is one of the most important in our history.
We have several races here we must all support, including for Representative Derek Kilmer.
Not only is he a dedicated public servant who understands our needs here on the Olympic Peninsula, he’s also well-positioned to fight for us and deliver results.
He has a coveted seat on the Appropriations Committee, and if reelected, he stands to become the second most senior person on the Interior & Environment Subcommittee.
Let me explain why that’s important.
Because of Derek’s position on Appropriations:
When the Trump proposed eliminating all funding for Puget Sound, Derek fought for us and actually got an 18 percent increase.
He brought the committee, congressional members from all over the country to see why these investments are important.
When the administration proposed allowing big oil to drill off the coast of Washington, Derek stood up against them and helped prevent it.
When the administration proposed gutting funds for affordable housing, for tribes, for renewable energy, Derek stood up for us and actually increased funding.
And he’s successfully championed the Wild Olympics Wilderness and Wild & Scenic Rivers Act while working to improve the timber and tourism economy.
When we get through this pandemic and rebuild our economy, we’ll need leaders who can help us.
Derek spent a decade working in economic development, and has proven that he’s using his post on the Appropriations Committee to deliver results for our region.
Please join me in voting for Derek Kilmer.
Connie Gallant
Quilcene
EDITOR’S NOTE: Connie Gallant is president of the Olympic Forest Coalition