Have you heard of Tony Ventrella? The Seahawks sportscaster? Yes, him. He’s running for Congress in WA’s 8th congressional district, and I think he can win IF we all get off our asses and help.
DailyKos has said “The House is Back in Play,” and thank goodness. I’m so sick of hearing about the top of the ticket. Let’s focus on what really matters now — winning back Congress and getting some important ballot initiatives passed, such as those in CA and WA.
I’ve written before about this reluctant candidate and why I’m a fan. I’ve come to think he’s got a real shot more recently, when I heard a very nice conversation he had on the conservative Todd Hermann show. On the tape, he respectfully disagrees with Herman’s views on gun ownership (high-capacity magazines) and veterans’ health care but keeps things super civil and friendly. He’s really positioning himself as a good listener who is serious about representing his district. On his Facebook page, he writes,
Our interview was an excellent representation of how two parties with differing views can conduct insightful conversation, and discuss difficult, even sensitive, issues with respect. If you missed the radio interview, you can listen here.
I will bring this same ethic and principle to Congress, if elected, and work cooperatively, and effectively, with colleagues from both "sides of the aisle." It can be done, and it must be done. We can no longer accept stalled progress in our Legislature. Let's move forward and get things done. I pledge to do this as your Representative.
This is not a deep, red district. It’s described as “slightly Republican” and went for Obama in 2012. The Republican incumbent won only 56.8% of the vote in the top-two primary, with the rest of the votes going to Democrats and Independents.
Tony is standing on principle, not even taking money from Democratic Party organizations, according to his interview in May. On the one hand, it’s a great move that let’s him keep his integrity as an outsider and someone not as chained to his party as his opponent, who voted with the Republican Party 90.5% of the time in 2014.
On the other hand, it means that Tony Ventrella is counting on ordinary citizens to step up and make this happen for him. Up until now, it’s been hard to get any info about how to support the campaign.
But here’s the call. Sign-waving events from 3-6pm multiple times per week if you’re local. Donations from individuals are also welcome.
Updated to clarify the meaning of “Democrats” = Democratic Party organizations.