A couple of things I take issue with. He went back on his promise to only run three terms. In essence, he lied. Integrity is very important in a US Senator. Second, he has been crowned by the State Republicans as the nominee before allowing the voters of this state to decide. Reed has not been able to speak at picnics, the state convention, or other party functions because he is not the pre-coronated nominee. I understood this is why we had primaries and the like so that we could decide for our selves who would be our representatives. Thirdly, I don't think he can win. He is from Eastern Washington, has a personality of a toad, and is not very charismatic. But honestly...that third issue is not as important to me as his integrity and honesty. If someone runs on a pledge...it should be abided by. If he felt like there was more to do...he should have stepped aside for a term and then run the next go around or run for higher office.
I take bigger issue with the State of Washington Republican Party's leadership. They have failed miserably as we do have a slate of potential candidates in this state, but they are not doing a very good job with recruiting quality candidates and funding candidates that can win. Vance is no better than Bonker.
Sensible points, to me.
Thanks.
You said Reed wasn't allowed to speak at picnics-- but I actually heard him speak at the King Co GOP picnic at Freed Farm. He was earlier denied the right to speak at another function (by the state rep party) because he (Reed) wouldn't agree to not attack the other candidates in his speech. I disagree with that decision (I think he should be allowed to say anything he wishes) and overall, he tends to represent my views more accurately than Nethercutt, however, I'd like to encourage Reed to run for a congressional seat first, before trying a senate run. Nethercutt is just much more polished and a better state-wide candidate. He seems quite charming the several times I've met him, certainly not a "toad". But I agree, the term limits contradiction may shoot him in the foot.