Shift ends the first full week of January with our fifth-in-the-series legislative previews, and it’s our saddest piece — what will become of scandal-ridden Democrat Auditor Troy Kelley? Perhaps if there was a strong leader in the state’s Democrat Party, that person could convince Kelley that it’s time for him to focus on his legal defense, and let the state move forward. Oh well, wishful thinking.
In other news today, the Jim McDermott retirement continues to generate confusion among Seattle Democrats – are they coming (into the race) or going (back to their current job)? Also confusing for the liberals is whether taxing carbon is good (like I-732) or bad (not enough taxes are raised for their friends to spend). Finally, the first political ads are up on TV, asking a hard question for Jay Inslee and legislators – why can’t poor kids in Seattle choose to go to public charter schools that will help them succeed.
And with that, Go Hawks!