The News Tribune endorses Bob Ferguson in lackluster governor’s race | Opinion

Voters will find two flawed candidates for governor on their ballots: Democrat Bob Ferguson and Republican Dave Reichert. We recommend Ferguson as the marginally better option in a race that leaves much to be desired.

Ferguson is the current state attorney general. His consumer protection efforts and legal challenges to the Trump administration demonstrate a willingness to stand up for Washingtonians’ interests. However, his partisan approach and penchant for the spotlight raise concerns about his ability to unite a state divided along geographical, political and cultural lines.

Ferguson’s stance on energy policy aligns more closely with Washington’s needs than does his opponent’s. His advocacy for a clean energy transition and proposals to reduce carbon emissions are steps in the right direction for the state’s environmental future. He also supports developing a hydrogen hub in the state, aiming to transform Washington’s clean energy economy while creating thousands of jobs.

In an interview with this editorial board, he expressed strong support for tribal sovereignty — words that are backed up by his actions as attorney general.

Whatever his positives, Ferguson’s character and record have as many troubling parts. During his interview with us, he balked at the idea that his credibility with law enforcement had grown strained. Washingtonians can see for themselves how divorced that is from reality. He also has a poor record when it comes to public records and transparency.

Ultimately, Ferguson comes off as the polished product of Washington’s Democratic machine. It’s his turn to be governor because he’s done his time and been loyal to the party.

If only Republicans had fielded a better opponent.

Reichert, a former King County sheriff and U.S. representative, has the experience to address public safety concerns. However, his congressional voting record reveals a worrying alignment with far-right policies, particularly on health care and LGBTQ+ issues.

While Reichert’s law enforcement experience is valuable, it does not outweigh his stances on other issues important to Washingtonians. He is skeptical about climate change and would undercut the progress the state has made on clean energy. He also is no supporter of reproductive rights. He insists he would follow the law, but that is insufficient. Ferguson, despite his flaws, would continue the state’s climate efforts and would defend a woman’s right to choose.

Neither candidate inspires confidence that he can tackle Washington’s most pressing challenges: the housing crisis, a struggling education system and the need for comprehensive criminal justice reform. Washingtonians deserve better options, but these are the two they have.

In recommending Ferguson, we hope that he takes to heart one maxim that Reichert shared in his interview with the editorial board: Government should serve the people, not the other way around.

The News Tribune Editorial Board is: Stephanie Pedersen, TNT president and editor; Jim Walton, community representative; Amanda Figueroa, community representative; Justin Evans, community representative; J. Manny Santiago, community representative; Bart Hayes, community representative.

This story was originally published October 18, 2024 at 5:00 AM.