Woodward, the uncomfortable

Nadine Woodward, the person who once read us the news, is running for mayor. Really? Woodward has no leadership experience. How could she oversee 2,000 employees and a budget of over $500 million? What are her qualifications? More importantly, what does she believe?

As a librarian who champions the rights of all people, regardless of economic status, to use libraries, I am appalled by her stance on the library. Spokane’s public library is a space where all people and all viewpoints are welcome. The Spokesman-Review has reported, backed by data, that our civic institutions are safe. What makes her uncomfortable? Some of those very people she wants to lead?

Woodward has taken a page out of Trump’s handbook, ducking reporters she considers unfriendly and not appearing at candidate forums where uncomfortable questions might be asked. She even left in the middle of an interview that turned uncomfortable. “I have to go to the bank,” she said. Really?!

Spokane’s mayor needs to be a person who can face reporters, answer tough questions, defend the city’s institutions and most the rights of all who live here. Vote Ben Stuckart because his record proves he can and will do these things.

Mary M. Winkes

Spokane