In spite of living in a Fox News watching red state, my small town newspaper has always been balanced politically. Suddenly the articles and op-eds are Tea Party news. Unless folks here really reach out, they won't have the facts. It was a wake-up call that brought home to me how important it is to get news out about good progressive Democrats running for office.
There are red to blue districts held by Republicans but carried by President Obama. Even if we don't live in those districts we can have an impact by getting the word out, giving name recognition and encouraging voters. WA-08 is one of those purple districts. Their primary is in August and Jason Ritchie is ready to turn WA-08 BLUE!
More information below the mesmerizing swirl to "Vote Blue in 2014".
Jason Ritchie is enthusiastic and a strong believer in progressive policies. Obstructionist GOPer Rep David Reichert was first elected in 2005 and is seeking his fifth term from WA-08. This is a district President Obama won in both 2008 and 2012 (redistricted). Times have definitely changed. Every vote counts. Elections matter!
Jason is a family man who started his business, HandiHabitats, remodeling homes for accessibility after helping his father deal with limited mobility after a stroke. His business has grown as he helped injured workers, veterans and others.
He has taken a clear stand in support of important progressive issues. Here are a few:
Immigration: I believe in comprehensive immigration reform. The balance between increased security at our borders, a path to citizenship and more high tech visas will serve to grow our economy and strengthen our bond as Americans....
Women's health: A woman's health is between her and her doctor. No politician, regardless of his own personal views, should dictate what a woman does with her own body. I do not support government engaging in any unwarranted interference into medical decisions, especially for political gain. That is why I believe women should have open access to health care, including birth control and family planning....
Healthcare: I strongly support the Healthcare Reform Law of 2010. More Americans covered by health insurance, more competitive insurance plans and more access to great quality healthcare means lower premiums and a healthier district, state and nation....
Firearm regulation: I am a firearm owner. I believe in the second amendment to our federal constitution and I believe it applies to individual citizens and the right to own firearms. However, I believe that we must strengthen our regulations on firearm purchases....
You can see more on his
issues page including his stand on education, infrastructure, equal pay, energy, job creation/small business growth, social security/Medicare, organized labor and the minimum wage. President Obama is doing all he can with Executive Orders. Think of what he could do with more Democrats with these progressive beliefs and convictions in the House!
There are many ways to be involved from big to small. If you'd like to meet Jason:
Summer campaign kickoff BBQ for the opening of the Issaquah Field Office
Meet the candidate and have fun with the whole family: BBQ, bounce house, and photo booth!
When: Saturday, June 7th from 12 PM to 3 PM
Where: 275 1st Place NW, Issaquah, WA 98027
Make sure there is plenty of BBQ!
RSVP: Conor Bronsdon at (206)245-9508
Or email Conor: manager@ritchieforcongress.com
The primary election will be held August 5, 2014. Jason is ready to represent WA-08 in the general election on November 4. If you've had enough of House GOP obstruction and would like to trade-in an old moss-covered GOPer for a progressive Democrat here are ways you can participate:
Jason's campaign website: Jason Ritchie for Congress
Ritchie For Congress
P.O. Box 2165
Issaquah, WA 98027
425-324-6888
Volunteer: Sign up for his e-newsletter, canvas, make calls, share updates on FaceBook and Twitter, host a house party, or write a letter to the editor.
Be a field organizer
Donate: Be a part of the action to get a great candidate who is on our side!
Follow Jason on Twitter: @Ritchie4wa8
Like Jason on Facebook: Ritchie for Congress
VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE
WA-08 district map
If you live in WA-08 you can check your voter registration or register to vote here.
Primary Info
July 7 Deadline for voter registration, address change and other updates
July 18 Start of 18-day voting period (through Election Day). Ballots are mailed out
and Accessible Voting Units (AVUs) are available at voting centers.
July 28 Deadline for new Washington State voter registration (in person only)
August 5 Primary
The reason the GOP is so determined to discourage Democrats and limit their voting is because WE ARE VERY POWERFUL PEOPLE!! All of us working together with optimism and strength are a mighty force. It doesn't matter what polls say, what matters is that together we really can do this. Let's take back the House in 2014!!