Endorsements and editorials are made solely by the ownership of this newspaper. As is the case at most newspapers across the nation, The Spokesman-Review newsroom and its editors are not a part of this endorsement process. (Learn more.)

Editorial: Review of S-R election endorsements

Fri., Nov. 3, 2017

Voting is underway for the general election. Ballots have been mailed, and if you don’t have one now, you soon will.

Ballots must be postmarked by Nov. 7. That’s also the last day to use drop boxes, which close at 8 p.m. To find those locations, click here.

The Spokesman-Review editorial board has issued endorsements in selected races. The full endorsement editorials can be found online. Some were written during the primary.

Our thanks to all of the candidates who responded to interview requests, and we appreciate the fact that you had to juggle schedules, find parking and endure our questions. We respect anyone who has the courage to run for office, undergo the scrutiny and put in long hours of campaigning. The community is strengthened by those willing to step forward.

Please note that our endorsements are merely recommendations, and should be read as such. Voters are encouraged to find as much information as possible and decide for themselves. Most candidates have their own websites, and this newspaper has been publishing candidate profiles.

Here is a brief review of the editorial board’s endorsements:

Spokane County Superior Court, Position 6: Tony Hazel. Received impressive evaluation from Spokane County Bar Association and has shown leadership on criminal justice reforms.

Municipal Court Judge, No 1: Tracy Staab. Incumbent judge rated high in Spokane County Bar Association’s evaluation and has embraced “smart justice” innovations.

Spokane Public Schools, Position No. 5: Mike Wiser. Board appointee is well-informed about the many challenges the district faces. Impressive volunteer and work resume.

Spokane City Council, District 1, Position 2: Kate Burke. Shows promise as an independent voice and strong advocate for the district.

Spokane City Council, District 2, Position 2: Andy Dunau. Well-connected, well-informed candidate who would bring a much-needed centrist voice to the council.

Spokane City Council, District 3, Position 2: Candace Mumm. Incumbent has the clear edge in experience and community achievements.

Spokane Valley City Council, Position No. 1: Rod Higgins. Some rocky moments on council, but has a clear edge in experience and knowledge of Valley issues.

Spokane Valley City Council, Position No. 2: Brandi Peetz. Would provide a fresh voice and a solid law enforcement perspective.

Spokane Valley City Council, Position No. 4: Ben Wick. Smart, informed and would keep the council focused on city business.

Spokane Valley City Council, Position 5: Pamela Haley. Appointee has been quiet but steady. Has stayed out of the activist politics of colleagues.

Spokane Valley City Council, Position 7: Linda Thompson. Dedicated to public service. A voice of reason who is passionate about getting more citizens involved.

Proposition 2: No. If individual cities could impose restrictions on rail transport, it would harm interstate commerce. Take fight to Congress.