U.S. Senator, State of Washington - 2012 Washington Primary

Labor Day: Parades, picnics and politicians

September 3, 2012 3:52 p.m.

Parades, picnics and politicians celebrated the American worker on Labor Day, with President Barack Obama seeking votes from Ohio union members and rivals for Senate seats marching in Massachusetts and Virginia.

Judge’s ruling on Obama ballot challenge

September 2, 2012 9:17 a.m.

Judge’s ruling on Obama ballot challenge

Spin Control: Judge dismantles Seattle woman’s ‘birther’ claims

September 2, 2012

OLYMPIA – It’s Labor Day weekend, the traditional start of serious campaigning, so one can assume the silly season for politics is either over or nearly so. Before the clock ran out on the political dog days of summer, however, Washington was treated to the latest “birther” challenge to Barack Obama’s ability to run for president.

Andy Billig, Q&A on 15 topics

September 1, 2012 10:01 p.m.

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

September 1, 2012 10 p.m.

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.

Initiative or no, federal law trumps state on marijuana

September 1, 2012

Suppose voters decided that they’ve had it with federal drug rules that make marijuana an illegal substance akin to heroin or cocaine, and they change Washington state law to make marijuana legal. Not in all instances, not for everyone, not at any time. But for adults, in regulated quantities, for limited uses.

McLaughlin apologizes for false claims

September 1, 2012

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

August 31, 2012 2:50 p.m.

McLaughlin to Billig: I’m sorry

Eastwood’s chair speech lights up Twitter

August 31, 2012 6:49 a.m.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Clint Eastwood earned plenty of bad reviews for his latest performance: a bizarre, rambling endorsement of Mitt Romney. “Clint, my hero, is coming across as sad and pathetic,” tweeted film critic Roger Ebert as Eastwood ad-libbed Thursday night to an audience of millions — and one empty chair — on stage at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla. “He didn’t need to do this to himself. It’s unworthy of him.”