Letters to the Editor
Letter to the Editor | Former rivals for legislative seat endorse council candidate
With so many divisions crippling our politics today, it’s vitally important to find leaders who bring people together. We need constructive consensus builders with new energy and perspective. That’s why Councilmember Emily Stone has our bipartisan support to retain her seat on Gig Harbor City Council.
You may recall that when we ran against each other for State Representative in 2022 we drew some attention — even headlines — for our collegiality, respect, and friendship. There is much the two of us disagree about, but why should that stop us from being decent to each other? Em Stone shares our belief that differences of opinion provide the opportunity to be good neighbors, to engage with new and challenging ideas, and to seek common ground. We are grateful to have Em on city council, bringing her collaborative spirit and sharp mind to work for her fellow citizens every day.
Em’s opponent Jeni Woock has served our community, and we respect that. It could have been possible for both to continue serving together on city council as they do now. But we regret Jeni’s unfortunate decision not to seek reelection to her own council seat and instead to switch races in order to run against Em Stone, one of her colleagues.
Em has served with dignity and distinction. She is a quality public servant doing a commendable job. She shows up all over the community with fresh energy and perspective. She listens carefully to different ideas, which is vitally important in our political climate today. We see no reason that Em’s service on city council should end — and many reasons to hope our community will continue to benefit from her leadership for years to come.
No matter the issues facing Gig Harbor, Em has the skills and mindset necessary to move the city ahead in a thoughtful way. We hope you will join us and vote to retain Emily Stone on Gig Harbor City Council in November.
Adison Richards
State Representative, 26th Legislative District
Spencer Hutchins
Fmr. State Representative, 26th Legislative District