As an expert in politics, I have closely observed the political landscape of southeastern Washington and have seen how it has evolved over the years. While the state of Washington is often seen as a blue state, with a majority of its population leaning towards the Democratic Party, the southeastern region tells a different story. This area, which includes counties such as Benton, Franklin, and Walla Walla, has a more diverse political landscape with representation from both major parties as well as third-party candidates.
The Main Political Parties in Southeastern Washington
The two main political parties in the United States are the Democratic Party and the Republican Party. These parties have been dominating the political scene for decades and have a strong presence in southeastern Washington as well.Democratic Party:
The Democratic Party is often associated with progressive policies and a focus on social issues such as healthcare, education, and environmental protection.In southeastern Washington, the Democratic Party has a strong presence in urban areas such as Kennewick and Pasco. The party's support is also seen in college towns like Pullman, home to Washington State University.
Republican Party:
The Republican Party is known for its conservative values and emphasis on individual rights and limited government intervention. In southeastern Washington, the Republican Party has a strong base in rural areas such as Walla Walla and Franklin counties. The party's support is also seen in suburban areas like Richland and West Richland.The Candidates Representing These Parties
As we approach the 2020 elections, let's take a closer look at the candidates representing these two major parties in southeastern Washington.Democratic Candidates
Kristine Reeves: Reeves is the Democratic candidate for the 10th Congressional District, which covers parts of Thurston, Pierce, and Mason counties.She is a former state representative and has a background in economic development and workforce training. Reeves is running on a platform that focuses on creating jobs, improving healthcare, and addressing climate change.
Carolyn Long:
Long is the Democratic candidate for the 3rd Congressional District, which covers parts of Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, Pacific, Skamania, and Wahkiakum counties. She is a political science professor at Washington State University Vancouver and has previously run for Congress in 2018. Long's platform includes issues such as healthcare, education, and protecting Social Security and Medicare.Marko Liias:
Liias is the Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor of Washington. He has served in the state legislature since 2008 and has a background in small business ownership.Liias' platform includes issues such as affordable healthcare, education funding, and addressing climate change.
Republican Candidates
Dino Rossi: Rossi is the Republican candidate for the 8th Congressional District, which covers parts of King and Pierce counties. He has previously served in the Washington State Senate and has run for Congress multiple times. Rossi's platform includes issues such as job creation, reducing government spending, and protecting Second Amendment rights.Jaime Herrera Beutler:
Herrera Beutler is the Republican candidate for the 3rd Congressional District. She has served in Congress since 2011 and has a background in public relations.Her platform includes issues such as job growth, healthcare reform, and protecting natural resources.
Marty McClendon:
McClendon is the Republican candidate for Lieutenant Governor of Washington. He is a pastor and has previously run for Lieutenant Governor in 2016. McClendon's platform includes issues such as reducing taxes, protecting Second Amendment rights, and promoting small businesses.Third-Party Candidates
Aside from the two major parties, there are also third-party candidates running for office in southeastern Washington. These candidates may not have the same level of visibility and resources as their Democratic and Republican counterparts, but they offer alternative perspectives and solutions to the issues facing the region.Joshua Collins:
Collins is running as an independent candidate for the 10th Congressional District. He is a truck driver and has gained attention for his progressive platform, which includes issues such as Medicare for All, a Green New Deal, and campaign finance reform.Tim Eyman:
Eyman is running as a Libertarian candidate for Governor of Washington.He is a political activist known for his involvement in initiatives related to taxes and government spending. Eyman's platform includes issues such as reducing taxes, limiting government power, and protecting individual rights.
The Importance of Local Elections
While national elections often dominate the media coverage, it's important to remember the impact that local elections can have on our daily lives. The candidates running for office in southeastern Washington will be making decisions that directly affect the region's economy, education system, healthcare, and more. It's also worth noting that the political landscape in southeastern Washington is constantly evolving. In recent years, we have seen a shift towards more progressive policies in traditionally conservative areas, as well as an increase in third-party candidates running for office.In Conclusion
The political parties and candidates represented in southeastern Washington offer a diverse range of perspectives and solutions to the issues facing the region.Whether you align with the Democratic Party, the Republican Party, or a third-party candidate, it's important to stay informed and exercise your right to vote in the upcoming elections. Remember, every vote counts and has the power to shape the future of our communities. So, make sure to do your research and make your voice heard on election day.
