This August's Whatcom County election-to-watch pits a feisty trial attorney challenger against incumbent Whatcom Superior Court Judge Chuck Snyder.
Judge Snyder was elected four years ago after besting a field of primary challengers and then out-polling Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Mac Setter, an experienced trial attorney, in the November general election. Back then, Snyder already had 14 years of judging under his belt, presiding as a superior court commissioner over juvenile court, dependent child, domestic violence, marriage dissolution and criminal hearings.
In this summer's campaign, Snyder emphasizes his experience on the bench and his accomplishments with Teen Court, Drug Court, and programs to resolve lawsuits through mediation and settlement conferences rather than expensive and contentious courtroom trials.
We elect judges to make difficult decisions; sometimes their courtroom rulings upset losing parties and their trial attorneys. But Judge Chuck Snyder's abilities, experience and level-headed temperament ensure that all who appear before him receive a fair hearing, thoughtful consideration and a just result.
This challenge will be decided on Aug. 19 by primary election ballots.
Edwin Simmers
Bellingham
@Nyx.CommentBody@