In conservative eastern Washington, Spokane is turning Democratic if not downright progressive. They already have control of two legislative districts in Spokane, and are poised to gain in a majority on the County Commission.
The liberal 3rd Legislative District is currently represented by three progressive Democrats including Senate Majority leader Lisa Brown. In the more middle-of-the-road 6th Legislative District, there are two elected democrats including environmental champion Senator Chris Marr.
Also, progressive Democrats made serious in-roads into Spokane City Government with the election of Mary Verner as mayor and Richard Rush as a councilman in 2007.
Furthermore, Democrats have a real chance to gain control of the Spokane County Commission for the first time in many years. They elected Bonnie Mager in 2006, and one more will give them majority control. Dr. Kim Thorburn is running for a commissioner seat on the platform of Smart Growth, to Serve All Residents of the County, and for Transparency in Government.
Dr. Kim Thorburn has demonstrated her executive ability in leading the Regional Health District and in that capacity she showed that her interest is in the welfare of the citizens of this community not the special interests. Her integrity is above reproach and her dedication to public service has been amply demonstrated. Kim is committed to transparent and accessible county government. Her training and experience in public health would be a vital addition to county government as all issues coming before the county commissioners have public health ramifications. Dr. Kim Thorburn is the right choice for Spokane County.
Progressive Democrat, Brian Sayrs, from Liberty Lake is also running for the Spokane County Commission. Sayrs is currently on the Liberty Lake City Council.
Eastern Washington Votershas been working hard to turn Spokane Democratic. For more news on Eastern Washington and in particular in Liberty Lake, read more at Dailykos