Arrow-right Camera

Color Scheme

Subscribe now

This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

Shea disrespects voters

I was glad to be one of the few able to get in the door to attend the 4th Legislative District debate Oct. 6. There was a lively debate between the Position 2 candidates. Although Position 1 candidates were there, the questions they received did not bring out their positions on the issues.

The part that disappointed me was Rep. Matt Shea’s answer to Josh Arritola’s final question regarding having another debate in a larger venue. Shea stated that he would not debate Arritola a second time. I was disappointed at this statement, as many people were turned away from the event due to space inside the building. I was disappointed with the response because Shea represents 4th District residents, no matter their political view. The residents deserve to hear each of their views.

Shea, by not engaging in future debates, disrespects the political process of letting the voters hear each candidate’s views and casting an informed vote. Shea should be called out to have another debate in a larger venue, with questions coming from several sources – business, social and government.

Bob McKinley

Spokane Valley

Letters Policy

The Spokesman-Review invites original letters on local topics of public interest. Your letter must adhere to the following rules:

  • No more than 250 words
  • We reserve the right to reject letters that are not factually correct, racist or are written with malice.
  • We cannot accept more than one letter a month from the same writer.
  • With each letter, include your daytime phone number and street address.
  • The Spokesman-Review retains the nonexclusive right to archive and re-publish any material submitted for publication.

Unfortunately, we don’t have space to publish all letters received, nor are we able to acknowledge their receipt. (Learn more.)

Submit letters using any of the following:

Our online form
Submit your letter here
Mail
Letters to the Editor
The Spokesman-Review
999 W. Riverside Ave.
Spokane, WA 99201
Fax
(509) 459-3815

Read more about how we crafted our Letters to the Editor policy