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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

State Senator

Related Coverage, Page 2

City apologizes to fired detective

City leaders on Monday issued an apology to a police detective fired for what officials described as a “troubled work history.”

Billig vs. McLaughlin, Freeway and Electric Bus

State Rep. Andy Billig, a Democrat, and Spokane City Councilwoman Nancy McLaughlin, a Republican, discuss their ideas about completing the North Spokane freeway and the proposed electric bus system in central Spokane. The two are running for state Senate in Spokane’s 3rd Legislative District.

Watch Billig, McLaughlin make their pitch

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Billig vs. McLaughlin, Introduction

State Rep. Andy Billig, a Democrat, and Spokane City Councilwoman Nancy McLaughlin, a Republican, make their case about why they feel they’re the best choice to represent the state Senate in Spokane’s 3rd Legislative District.

Spin Control: McLaughlin flap puts originality, or lack of it, in spotlight

One of the first things a candidate does these days, after announcing he or she wants to do good things for the good people of this good community, is get a website. While any campaign website worth its salt must offer a chance to become a fan on Facebook, follow the candidate on Twitter or contribute via PayPal, the main purpose is to give voters something about the candidate’s background (Click here for bio) and ideas (Click here for issues).

Andy Billig, Q&A on 15 topics

ANDY BILLIG, Democrat 1. Why do you feel that you are the best candidate? I have a successful record of delivering results on the issues most important to our community: jobs, health care and education. Job creation is my top priority, and I am uniquely qualified in this area with 20 years of experience leading a successful small business and a positive record in the Legislature. I am committed to supporting great public schools, protecting women’s reproductive health rights and safeguarding the Spokane River. As State Senator, I will continue to advocate for our community values of justice, freedom and equal opportunity while maintaining a clear focus on jobs and a prosperous Spokane for everyone.

Nancy McLaughlin, Q&A on 15 topics

NANCY MCLAUGHLIN, Republican 1. Why do you feel that you are the best candidate? As your city councilwoman, I have been in touch with moms and dads, singles, retirees, employers and employees of Spokane. I understand your frustration with reduced job opportunities, high taxes and fees and extensive regulations. That’s why I voted against the $20 car tab fee and excessive water rates. I can be a greater part of the solution as your senator. With fair, common sense leadership I can help ensure a climate for job creation, education reforms to include more local control and accountability, and sustainable budgets that won’t leave an oppressive debt burden on our children and grandchildren.

McLaughlin apologizes for false claims

Spokane City Councilwoman Nancy McLaughlin publicly apologized this week to her opponent in the race for state Senate for using false information on a campaign mailer she sent before last month’s primary. Her apology was made as the state Public Disclosure Commission began inquiring about the mailer in response to a formal complaint.

McLaughlin to Billig: I’m sorry

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Stuckart: I support Billig

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Why city chose to blame Zehm remains unexplained

Spokane city leaders finally are admitting that mistakes were made during a 2006 police confrontation that led to the death of Spokane resident Otto Zehm. But it remains unclear if the city will answer a key question, one that officials have suggested for months would be explained. Why did city attorneys make official claims in 2009 that Zehm was responsible for his own death and that force used against him was “reasonable and necessary,” even though by that time then-Assistant Chief Jim Nicks had told a grand jury that the response likely violated department policy?

Sen. Brown was financially ready for campaign

State Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown perhaps was too prepared for her re-election bid. She already had ordered her campaign signs when she made the surprise announcement last week that she would not seek a new term.

Into endorsements

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Snyder, Waite enter field for House seat

The scramble is on for a state House seat in central Spokane, part of the fallout of Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown’s surprise decision not to seek re-election. Brown said Thursday that she would not run again for her 3rd Legislative District Senate seat. State Rep. Andy Billig immediately said he would run for Brown’s Senate seat, leaving a vacancy that often attracts multiple candidates.