We used to have legislators that believed in compromise. We used to have representatives that would come together and reach across the aisle to forge solutions that were good for Whatcom County. We used to have legislative titans, Dale Brandland and Kelli Linville, who fought for good jobs in Whatcom County. Now, I believe, we have two extremists.

I don't use that term lightly, but what else can you call someone who votes against protecting our children from toxic toys from China? Vincent Buys and Jason Overstreet both did, putting them in the extreme minority against a bipartisan bill. What about a bill aimed at preventing the next Jerry Sandusky by requiring certain employees to report child abuse? Vincent Buys and Jason Overstreet voted against that too. Vaccination requirements for school children? They voted it down, in Overstreet's case, twice.

It is one thing to stand on principle, but how far must you go to prove a point? It is time that we said no to extremism and return to the path of moderate leadership that made Whatcom County the powerhouse it once was. Please join me in voting for Matt Krogh and Natalie McClendon this November.

Riley Sweeney

Bellingham