I love Ben

Have you picked who you want for our next mayor? A comparison of their recently

published Guest Opinions helps decide how I’m going to vote. While Ben says “Over the last 8

years I’ve seen what we can do as a community, working together …,” Nadine’s pitch begins with

“For the past 28 years, you’ve watched me on TV talking about the issues facing Spokane …”

While his vision is priceless, her talk seems cheap to me.

Another publicized comparison is available regarding their personal accountability. After

offending a fellow City Council member Ben admitted doing so, and then apologized. Nadine,

during the recession when so many of us were facing downsizing or loss of a job, declined her

employer’s contract renewal offer. And then complained about money and disrespect.

Next, consider his vision of offering the homeless “a helping hand up” versus hers of

“keeping them down.” The majority of her plans include enforcement or punishment, a veritable

stick instead of a carrot.

Finally, there is the matter of communication style. Have you listened to

his direct, candid responses, while she often circles around straightforward questions?

Let Woodward continue talking about what others are doing — word has it there’s a

newscaster job available. Let Mayor-to-be Stuckart lead us through the civic actions our

Spokane community needs and deserves. I vote Ben!

Donald McIntyre

Spokane