Since Val Stevens was elected to the House and Senate, she has worked tirelessly for those “just average voters” in her district, no special interests. She has been a devoted voice for foster children and others who rely on DSHS for support. She advocates for DSHS programs, working across the political aisle efficiently using taxpayer dollars. She supports educationally and financially sound K-12 programs, higher education, community health organizations and senior programs, especially those rural fire departments and emergency medical services. She is well aware that just as we can’t live beyond our means, neither can government.

Val’s office is receptive to everyone who calls, writes or emails. As I was out in Granite Falls last month doorbelling with campaign literature, the mail carrier was making deliveries and thought I had a stack of mail for her. She pulled over waiting for me, saying she’d take my “mail.” I told her it was Val Stevens’s campaign literature, offering her one. She smiled saying “Val Stevens? She helped my husband and me buy our house here in Granite Falls.” I told her Val was doorbelling on the next street, and because she had never met Val, she went to finally meet the Senator whose office had been so helpful to her family! Now that’s impressive.

So, if anyone tries to tell you that Val Stevens puts the safety, health, emergency medical or well-being of her constituents at risk, especially the vulnerable – children, disabled or seniors, don’t believe a word of it.

Catherine Paxton

Arlington, WA