We support Reuven Carlyle to succeed Helen Sommers as State Representative for the 36th Legislative District. Reuven won the primary in August and as such was the choice of the voters in Washington's first "top-two" primary.

It will be a major challenge for either Reuven or his opponent, John Burbank, to replace the irreplaceable Helen Sommers. But, we believe Reuven better embodies and embraces the qualities of Helen Sommers that has made her such an effective legislator. Just as we support Barack Obama as president and his message of unity and working together to resolve the enormous challenges we are facing, we do so for Reuven as well. We need public officials who can heal, not divide, our communities.

Reuven advocates for collaboration in working with everyone to solve the problems facing us all, regardless of income, occupation, party, ethnic background, or education. Reuven has demonstrated this quality time and again and that's why we believe he will be an effective legislator.

And, contrary to the claim that John Burbank is the only "real" Democrat and progressive in the race and that Reuven Carlyle is the business candidate, they both have received significant endorsements by progressive groups, including many dual endorsements, such as by NARAL Pro-Choice Washington, Planned Parenthood Votes, and AFT-Washington. And Reuven has notable sole endorsements by progressive organizations, such as the Young Democrats of Washington, Washington Conservation Voters, the Sierra Club, Seattle Firefighters, SEIU 1199, and SEIU 775, among many others. Each of us has received broad support from environmental, labor, Democratic and business groups as have Representatives Sommers and Dickerson. Reuven has the same broad support, further demonstrating his ability to bring groups together and get things done.

Reuven's work with legislators and governors has led to improvements for foster children. His service following appointment by Gov. Gregoire as a member of the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges has enhanced access to higher education, especially for low-income students. His work with businesses and workers has helped the local telecommunications industry thrive. And his focus on positive strategic planning reflects the vision and vitality we need in the legislature.

What you see in Reuven Carlyle is what you get: a highly energetic, enthusiastic, experienced, and capable individual who cares deeply about the 36th district and the constituents he hopes to serve. Significantly, the Municipal League recognized these qualities in awarding Carlyle its coveted "Outstanding" rating as compared to the two-levels lower "Good" rating for Burbank. Carlyle also received sole endorsements from the Seattle Times, the Seattle P-I and The Stranger.

Because of his record of public service, his temperament, and his capabilities, we are proudly voting for Reuven Carlyle. While the 36th District is fortunate to have two great candidates, either one of which would do well, we believe Reuven would be the more effective in representing the 36th Legislative District in Olympia.

Former Gov. Gary Locke

State Sen. Jeanne Kohl-Welles

City Council member Tim Burgess

(All reside in the 36th District.)