Hunter: It's all about the people

Note: This is not an endorsement.

With that said, I went out doorbelling with King County Executive candidate Ross Hunter, D-Medina, last Thursday in Bothell.

State Legislator Hunter — who will square off against County Council Chair Dow Constantine, County Councilmember Larry Phillips, Sen. Fred Jarrett and former KIRO-TV news anchor Sue Hutchison in the Aug. 18 primary — selected a quiet, friendly 173rd Place neighborhood to visit with the folks who could help vote him into office. Kids played ball in a park, residents sifted through items in their garages and visited on the street.

During my half hour or so with Hunter, he stressed that this getting-to-know-you session was not about him, but focused on the people — the regular folks — who are affected by the King County Council’s decisions on housing, transportation, human services and more.

He possessed the energy of a schoolkid while strolling from door to door or even tracking down a resident who was pulling her car out of the driveway. Some of the people he spoke with were aware of the issues and others said they would look into the race soon.

Either way, Hunter was out there amongst them, getting to know them and wanting to make a difference. While I’m still becoming familiar with the issues and am not a hardcore politics follower by any means, I couldn’t help but get caught up in the moment and feel excited about the upcoming primary and general election in November.

The last time I participated in such a neighborhood activity was when I sold candy bars door to door for school. I wasn’t a happy fellow interacting with strangers and such, but Hunter was a pro. If any of the other candidates come through town, I’ll be there, as well.

Contact Bothell Reporter Editor Andy Nystrom at editor@bothell-reporter.com or 425-483-3732, ext. 5050.

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