Jason Overstreet signed Grover Norquist's pledge to "never to raise taxes" without exception, regardless of the situation or emergency. I believe Overstreet's allegiance is to keep that pledge by voting no on bills with no regard to the consequences or importance of the bill. For those unfamiliar with Grover Norquist, he is a lobbiest, a conservative, an activist and the founder and president of Americans for Tax Reform. He sponsored the "Taxpayer Protection Pledge."

It seems to me an elected representative should determine the merits of each bill before deciding how to vote.

Natalie McClendon's pledge is to promote public education and women's health care, encourage job growth and protect our environment while being aware of our needs for a strong, healthy future.

Think about how you will vote this November. Will your allegiance be to someone who signed the Norquist pledge or for someone who has promised to be sensitive to the needs of Whatcom County residents? Natalie McClendon has my vote.

Naomi Murphy

Ferndale