NFIB backs McLaughlin

The National Federation of Independent Business endorsed Nancy McLaughlin for the 3rd Legislative District state Senate race over Andy Billig for good reasons. Andy votes against small business 90 percent of the time. Only four lawmakers had worse scores. Not only is he out of step with small business, he’s out of step with other Democrats.

Fifty-six Democratic legislators had better small-business voting records than Billig, including retiring Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown. Even former Rep. Alex Wood voted for small business more often than Andy Billig when he was in office.

Unfortunately, Rep. Billig chooses union bosses and other advocates of big government over small business nine out of 10 times in Olympia. His loyalty has been rewarded with nearly $20,000 in campaign contributions from labor organizations.

This is not a Republican vs. Democrat issue. Lawmakers are scored on priority bills and amendments, and advance notice is given so they know where small business stands before they vote.

Several Democratic lawmakers have received our Outstanding Lawmaker award. We expect Nancy to be a recipient in the future based on her performance and leadership philosophy.

Diana Wilhite, Mike Gilmartin

and Curt Fackler

Spokane