Pakootas better than Wilson

A recent letter stated we should support Dave Wilson for Congress because “the Democrats had their chance in 2014.” Wilson was also on the ballot in 2014 and didn’t perform as well against the incumbent as did the Democrat, Joe Pakootas.

Review of Wilson’s and Pakootas’ websites reveals Pakootas’ stands on the issues; Wilson’s aren’t so clear. Wilson states the U.S. should “be a proponent of free trade” and make “gradual changes to entitlement programs.” Does he support NAFTA, CAFTA and the TPP? Would he change Medicare, Social Security and veterans’ programs to lessen already insufficient benefits?

Pakootas would strengthen Social Security, expand Medicare and preserve and improve veterans’ programs. He opposes policies that aggravate climate change and supports programs which promote gender pay equity and comprehensive health care.

Wilson praises bipartisanship. Republican leaders claim climate change is a hoax and that we should privatize Social Security and VA health programs. We cannot compromise with those ideas; we must defeat them.

Wilson would be better than McMorris Rodgers; she has one of the Congress’ worst voting records. Wilson would not be better than Joe Pakootas. I support Joe as the best candidate and urge others to do likewise.

Marian Hennings

Spokane