The League of Women Voters and KIMA-TV sponsored a candidate forum Monday night (July 28). If this forum is any indication I would say this race is between Vickie Ybarra, Bob McLaughlin, Al Schweppe and Norm Johnson. Supporters of each can probably find something to cheer about, but supporters of Vickie Ybarra have good reason to be jubilant over her performance. She was rock solid and had sensible answers and showed that she is the only one of the group that would actually make a difference in the State legislature.
One interesting question was about global warming. All 5 republicans deny it exists and apparently we can’t do anything about it, or even should do anything about it! They were quick to support Bush in his Iraq war but apparently they are unaware that the Bush administration and EPA acknowledge that global warming is indeed occurring. Vickie stated the obvious; the evidence of global warming is overwhelming and we CAN do something about it and that includes creating living wage jobs in our state on alternative energy production.
Naturally, all candidates mentioned keeping taxes low. Responding to a question regarding the newcomer status of the winner of this contest and how they would be effective for the 14th district, Vickie clearly was head and shoulders above all the others. She pointed out she would have a seat in the majority caucus giving us a stronger voice for our Valley.
It will be interesting to listen to talk radio spin this forum in favor of any one of the republicans. Vickie Ybarra looked & sounded like she belonged in the legislature. She projected an air of confidence and intellect that won the evening and would give ALL the residents of the 14th Legislative District reason to be proud.