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The Fourth Corner A Feature Story

With just 41 days until the April 27th WTA special election on the proposed 33% sales tax increase, an analysis of fundraising totals is quite telling with regard to where the pro-tax side is getting their financial support.

As of Monday, the political action committee supporting the tax is getting 93% of its financial support from the transportation unions, WTA contractors, WTA consultants and WTA employees (and spouses).

“The pro-tax campaign is overwhelmingly funded by people and groups who have a direct financial interest in the outcome of the election,” said Brett Bonner, with the group opposing the new tax, People for Progressive Transportation. “Voters need to be aware of that 93% of their money is from vested interests.  Some may question whether these groups are trying to buy the election.”

In addition to the unions and employees, thousands of dollars has come from several WTA contractors:  bus manufacturer Gillig has donated $9000; communications manufacturer Radio Satellite Integrators has donated $1000.  Other large contributors include $500 from bus supplier Schetky Northwest Sales, $500 from Summit Law Group, and $500 from lobbying firm Washington2Advocates.

Documents from the Washington State Public Disclosure Commission show that the pro-tax side has raised more than $41,000 so far, of which more than $38,000 is from the unions, employees, contractors and consultants.

By contrast, People for Progressive Transportation has collected just over $6200, none of which is from those who have a direct financial interest in the election’s outcome.

People for Progressive Transportation is against the tax based on the fact that the WTA has $22 million in reserves, and that service can be maintained for two years by using the Rainy Day Fund.  The agency has a $2.7 million temporary operational shortfall, but the new tax will permanently raise taxes at least $6 million per year.  People for Progressive Transportation also contends that a recession is the worst time to raise taxes on the citizens of Whatcom County.

93% of  money for the WTA tax increase is coming from those who have direct financial interest in the measure’s outcome

For more information, the anti-tax group’s website is www.nobustax.com.

Money Sources disclosed for Both Sides of WTA Tax Campaign

Quoting Brett Bonner (Anti Tax Campaign) Press Release:

Here is a list of questions that the  fourth corner asked subscribers in a recent survey and the results.  There were over 300 responses in this unscientific survey. 

There were over 250 individual responses to question 6 below. They are printed here as they were received. 

1. Although the WTA General Manager says they can operate for two years until their reserves hit a "critical level", Mayor Pike says Brett Bonner is a liar when it comes to surplus. Do you believe the Mayor is correct?

Yes              5.94 %

No                94.74%

2. If the WTA Board uses none of the reserve and decides to make cuts, where would you save money at the WTA to get through this temporary shortfall?

Cut Sunday Service and a few limited city routes.                                                              15.53%

Reopen negotiations with the union and have them temporarily pay more for their benefits.    19.74%

A combination of using reserves and re-opening union negotiations.                                     58.90%

Cut all county routes currently running.                                                                               5.83%

3. If you had a choice on how the WTA is run would you:

Maintain the current formation of the board with the members appointed be each city and the county       13.54%

Directly elect Board Members County wide                                                                           28.12%

Directly elect Board Members from their Council Districts                                                      58.33%

4. Do you believe the WTA has used scare tactics by threatening to cut service

Yes97.42%

No2.58%

5.Do you think the WTA Board has been fiscally responsible with the agency's budget?

Yes2.63%

No97.37%

6. If you had to offer one solution to solve the WTA's budget problem, what would it be?

1.start over

2.Listen to the WTA staff in good faith.

3.I think WTA should contract with the taxi companies for all Specialized Transport passengers that are not in wheelchairs.

4.It is time to get tough with employee benefits.  I would also eliminate the Public Relations employee.

5. Cut down on the administration personal.  It used to run with a director, an operation man, and a secretary.  Now it's about 5 times that in administration!!!

6. Eliminate free and extremely low fares. We should all pay our fair share for these services.

Negotiate with union workers and reduce excessively high salaries. We

cannot afford them!

7. Look for ways to lower overhead expenses I.e.administrative staff, no frills on buses etc.

8. A combination of things.......first, cut 20% to 25% across the board for management and overhead. Second, cut Sunday runs completely, Third, give taxi cab vouchersto the van transit riders and eliminate those runs........you never see those vans even remotely full. Most always only one rider per van........that is a waste of taxpayers money

9. Close them down. We don't need a liberal shuttle service!

10. privatize the entire system!!!

11. I feel that the wages and benefits are way out of line and should be reduced.

12. Operate on a budget like a small business, not like a government leech.

13. Basic balancing of expenses with revenue (with out raising taxes)

14. socialist systems have got to go.  Public transportation is a socialist system.  People that require public funded transportation should move to a large city or get a bicycle.  Why should I pay for someone else to travel.

15. Cut salaries to by in range of private employees and have them pay a fair share of their benefits.

16.It is unfortunate that the Financial and Budget folks did not raise the issue earlier.  More understanding of what happened would have been helpful.  I believe "Reserves" are for catastrophic circumstances.  If this is true, then then should be used.

17.Run it like I have to run my business.....Privatize it.

18. I would continue bus service where it is being used the most. I would cut the fat. Another major complaint that I have is WTA needs to support local business. I wonder where they buy fuel??

19. I do not see a budget problem. Cut out more buses that seem to be transporting no one and quit repainting buses. Have passengers pay more if not all of the money it actually costs to use public transportation.

20. Put independent senior and middle level leadership in place that manage WTA like a business instead of a political entity and charity to the union employees. 

21. Buy handicap buses that will hold up to 4 people rather than what they have purchased for years.  Most rides only contain one or two riders.

22. They need a reality check.  OUR taxes pay for their largess . . . . it's time for everyone to get on a budget and STAY there, even when times get good again . . . that's when we have an opportunity to save.  Unions should be banned and all wages and benefits should be in line with comparable jobs in the private sector.

23. As in any business, limit WTA expenses to be less than income; period!

24. Treat bus service (mass transit) like ferry service and draw their funding from county/state road funds rather than sales tax. Make buses free for all. We're 90+% of the way there anyways.

25. be flexible and open.  I don't know enough about their budget, but I do know the salaries of drivers are high.  I would also look at administration expenses.

26. Privatize, put out for bid, the PARA-Transit portion of their service.

27.Live within your means.

28. Cut salaries and benefits to bring them in line with private sector pay, downsize buses to accommodate ridership. 

29. Cut service and payroll as needed, across the board.

30. Raise all pass prices. Savvy frequent riders buy passes.

Monthly Pass from $25 to $30

Quarterly from $70 to $80

Monthly Student from $15 to $20

Quarterly Student from $40 to $50

Annual Pass $300

31. Tighten the belt like the rest of us.

32. Smaller buses, maintain and repair the buses instead of junk and replace with new, more frequency on high volume routes, price routes based on a grid/zones (the more zones you pass through the more it costs), if they don't already...add the ability for riders to use credit/debit cards, use Ferndale, Cordata, Downtown and possibly add more hubs which could act as zones and used as hubs for all routes.

33.Require the WTA to be self-sustaining.  No tax money to support the WTA.  If they can make the routes work with what they collect in fares, then they should exist.  If they can't make ends meet with fares, then why should taxpayers be forced to pay for something that they do not use?

34. Cut wages and benefits.

35. Be truthful and honest with the monies that come in.

36. SELL THE WHOLE SHEBANG BACK TO THE PRIVATE SECTOR.

37. SMALLER BUS'S==CUT OUT THE STUPID PAINT JOBS==LET PATRONS PAY A LITTLE MORE OF THEIR FARE

38. Reopen negotiations with the union.

39. get rid of their union period.

40. Fire the board and get rid of the union altogether if possible.

41. Eliminate routes or increase fares on routes that ridership does not justify. Reduce bus size where possible to reduce fuel and labor cost. Consider propane fuel if it is less expensive. Hire a professional negotiator when current contract is up.

42. WTA was created, and exists, solely for the purposes of social engineering, i.e. - get cars off the road and make public reliant on gov't.  I'd auction 2/3rds of the fleet, sell the headquarters to WCSO for their new jail.  Seriously, it's almost all pork - prudently managed, all riders could be accomodated with 1/3 the current equipment.  CERTAINLY NOT BY GOV'T STANDARDS, BUT IF THEY HAD 1/3 THE RESOURCE AND WISHED TO ACCOMODATE FOLKS, IT'D HAPPEN. Then again, I might be budgeting them too much slush!

43. raise rates on those who use the services

44. Advertise on the sides and the inside of the busses.  Renegotiate all staff salaries and bring down to the average private sector wages and salaries in the surrounding county.  Charge the using public more, especially college students.

45. use reserves

46. There are a lot of bus runs that are not at all near the capacity needed to make the route viable at 4 times per hour. At certain times per day they should be cut to 2. And of course public employee unions nation wide are destroying us.

47. get rid of the union

48. Please try and save money when it comes to the level of luxury you pay for on the busses.

49. Grow on bus advertising.

Reach out for carbon-footprint type grants or donations.

Offer charter services for pay.

Increase fares to better match price of service.

50. PLEASE STOP threatening our citizens with your transportation

authority, for people who rely on the bus system these tatics are dreadful.  Please don't use the fact that many people would like big paycheck WTA jobs to advertise for your own benefit (ie - these jobs are only going to be available IF we get you to vote how we'd like you to).

These kind of punitive measures (denying county people service because of how the vote went) are not appreciated and are sincerely scary in terms of how the WTA is being managed.

51. Cut staffing down to a sustainable level.

52. Raise the fare, eliminate some or combine some of the routes.  (I see three busses sometimes going down Holly at the same time.)  Maintain county routes but only twice a day.

53. see #2 above as checked

54. privatize

55. Cut the administration staff! I have worked in the corporate world for well over twenty years and know that they have far too many cooks in the kitchen. Change the scheduled hours of operation to meet the needs of the riders.  A perfect exampleof this is the I5 freeway.  They open the center lanes in the mornings and afternoons to accommodate the number of drivers coming and going from Seattle.  Duh.  We don't need empty buses running all day long.  By the way, dark graphics aren't going to hide the fact there are more often than not, no people on the bus.  Also, take a stab at lengthening the time between buses that are often empty.  Oh gee, I may have to wait ten more minutes :(  Last but not least "GET RID OF THE UNIONS!" They are the reason the public sector is making far more money than the private sector doing the very same job.  See how many people show up to become drivers for half the salary and benefits the union employees enjoy.  Now there's a start!

Question #2 Cut the routes that have the least ridership, whereever they are.Sundays----have minimal service.

Question #6 a percentage cut across the boardfor everyone.

56. Cut equally across the board. 

57. Cut your own excessive spending.  We are taxed enough already.

58. grow-up

59. One solution won't do the job. I would consider cutting management and then look at costs system-wide for a thousand other cuts. How about eliminating graphics on the buses, for instance?

60. When riders pay only 10% of the cost of a ride, I'm all for Change!  Cut half of the routes, lay off 60% of the employees.

61. Raise fares for users. Dont raise the fare for non users.

62. if the bus is empty don't run it

63. Analyze expenses to determine where costs should be cut and freeze wages.

64. Run it like a business.

65. REDUCE Administrator's salaries; they average over $77,900 + Benefits!!

66.OFFER THIS AS A PUBLIC OPERATED BUS SERVICE WITHOUT THE DEMANDS OF THE UNION & LET THE RESULTS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES.

67. Discontinue all routes that have only 2 or 3 people on the bus.  Seeing a big bus with only a couple of people on it is fiscally irresponsible.

68. Stay within present funding by reducing administrative salaries, and requiring union members to pay their own health service costs.  Another option, privatize the entire bus service system through competitive bidding.

69. Live within their means!

70. Reorganize/reconsider how the handicap transportation is operated and paid for.

71. MAKE IT CLEAR TO THE UNIONS THAT ALL BENEFITS AND RAISES WILL BE FROZEN, AMD IF THINGS DO NOT IMPROVE DRASTIC MEASURES WILL BE TAKEN , IE  CUT IN MEDICAL, NO RAISES UNTIL THE PRIVATE SECTOR AVERAGE GETS CLOSER TO THEIRS.

72. Run small buses at off peak times. Get some advertising on the buses and don't be beholden to stupid union rules. We the taxpayers own you so it is  time for WTA to dance to the piper's tune.

73. Too many employees get high wages and do very little or nothing at all. It is hard for them to figure out how to use up all of their vacation time. The union is entirely too powerful.

74. stop paying employees more than WTA can afford to pay, reevaluate routes and make them more economical - don't run a route that has only a small ridership using

a large bus etc.

75. Cut the overhead expenses wherever possible, they are spending too much money on fancy physical assets instead of economizing!

76. Get rid of the union and raise fares.

77. When a bus driver is making around $70,000 per year, something is radically imbalanced when a beginning teacher with a 4 year BA degree, starts at $33,000.  Teachers NEVER make $70,000 a year even after 13 years exp. and a MA degree.  Salaries are totally out of line. 

78. Provide BASIC service and quit trying to be all things to all people........particularly in the field of specialized transportation!

79. Re-evaluate ALL union contracts!

80. get rid of the union and privatize the bus line

81. Be frugal instead of expecting everything to stay the same and/or even increase. This downturn is affecting taxpayers.  You may have to do with less just as we do.  What do you think reserve funds are for?

82. Learn to live within your revenues

83. Re-evaluate the ridership on each line and make adjustments based on ridership needs.

84. Get smaller buses and run fewer empties.  Need higher load to seat ratios

85. Braver management, managers that look toward the future, not relying on the failed past policies

86. raise the cost of riding the bus

87.Use smaller buses on less populated routes.

88. I have no solution.  WTA does not provide service between the two rural towns where I live and where I work.  To do so would likely be more costly rather than help with a budget solution

89. Cut management positions and salaries.

90. Privatize the service.

91. The WTA board and staff need to cut the spending on things like the fancy bus paint jobs and bus decals!

92. Reduce the WTA Administrative spending (not operational, indirect expenses totally unnecassary to run a profitable business)

93. don't spend what you don't have.

94. Totaly Privatize the WTA and let the new private owners renegotiate all union agreements and supply contracts

95. Raise prices to more closely reflect your cost basis.  Do not cut service as your first move.

96. Cut wages and benefits for all WTA employees.  They are hugely overpaid for the jobs they do. 

97. Make salaries and benefits comparable to private companies.

98.smaller size buses, pay and benefits for public workers should be in line with the private sector.  In the past government jobs were a trade for lower pay but better benefits and not have to worry about gettting laid off, now they get better pay and benefits, if they strike so be it.

99. I would do what I have to do when times are tough: I cannot demand a raise from my employer (well, I might if I were union, but let's assume I don't have that kind of extortionist capability), so I simply have to live within my means, which might mean cutting some things that might be nice to have, or even some things that I might consider necessities. I would have to make do.

100. Quit driving buses around empty.

101. Do the best with the with current funding I have to live with my budget and do not have money for more taxes.

102. Use smaller buses.

103. offer service only where it is used most.  I would asume that is wwu wcc and  barkley village.  running people all over the county is a waste of money.  if you need to go cross county call someone for a ride or if its urgent call a taxi. Duh.

104. Don't do completely unnecessary things like planning on providing wi-fi on buses, or making the buses look like rolling art objects. Don't run as many buses on routes that have low ridership. It is frustrating to see so many buses driving around either empty or with one or two riders.

105. Be realistic in projections for both revenue and cost aspects of the operation. WTA does not need any new tax revenues in the near term.  Perhaps in two years the situation may need to be revisited but not next year.

106. Stop spending money that isn't available for things like Wi-Fi, which is not essential for the operation of transportation.

107. I live in the county and see the biggest buses that they have running the routes with 3 or 4 people on board. All new buses every couple years too. If these routes are to be kept use small mimi buses and keep them in service for 8-10 years.

108. Get rid of the union's ridiculous entitlement attitude and cut administrative costs.

109. Sell advertising space to local business's.

110. Don't spend beyond your means.

111. increase charges to users

112. Get the WTA General Manager to take charge and level a logical solution complete with priorities and personal opinions logically presented within the Herald.

113. Salary freeze and benefit readjustment

114. Declare bankruptcy, cancel the union contracts, shuffle the board and hire fresh workers or play hardball with the union that caused a good chunk of their fiscal problem.

115. As a county resident, where I live the bus service is not available within a reasonable distance from my  home. I don't use the bus service because of this.  I feel that tapping into  the reserves in conjunction with having the union employees pay more for their benefits is the most appropriate answer.  The economy is supposed to be rebounding, according to experts,and this budget problem should only be temporary. 

116. (i have several opinions, AND a brother that is a driver-just to put it all out there...)

#1 i volunteer at St. Joes. MANY many people can ONLY get there via WTA

because of wheelchair issues (taxi's wouldn't be possible) The specialized can't be cut, i feel.

#2 sunday service is necessary for the same reasons as above.

#3 *a way to cut $: fewer runs-i can't imagine people couldn't adjust to fewer hourly rides

#4 *WHY did WTA JUST repaint, or rewrap their buses?? didn't seem necessary

and had to be expensive.

#5 *my opinion is that WTA financial gurus aren't fools. i think they may not NEED the $$ but know that the Obama regime will ONLY cost them in the future and i think they just got in line first to see how/if they could get some public support. they found out, as will others in the future!!!

you have a union, you figure out your own stuff!

117. dump unions & lower wages

118. Start cutting from the top down.  

119. Cut the pay of all drivers by about 40%, and other staff by 10% !

Charge all riders at least $2 per ride, including students.

120. I do not use WTA, and I probably wouldn't use it if it were available me.  I resent being taxed for it. My understanding is it is a private enterprise supported by county tax dollars. Why?  They perhaps need to charge more to those that use it.  I drive my Prius and get far better mileage and leave a far smaller footprint.

121. I have to budget my expenses based on my pay. Why can't they budget their expenses the same way?

122. Cut admisistrative costs and increase rider's fares.  I worked for the City of Bellinghm for 14 years and the WTA was NEVER short of money.  They always to "first class" on everything.

123. Pay employees and management at a much lower level so that their rewards and benefits are similar to the general population. Hundreds of willing workers would apply

124. for the vacancies (if any) that would follow rate and benefit reductions

125. Put advertising back on the buses, art be damned. Its a business and needs to be run like one.

126. Privatise

127. Non-Union Drivers and staff

128. I would have voted for a temporary tax increase to support the service. I believe that a permanent tax increase is irresponsible and that is why I voted against it. Additionally, my trust in Board member Pike is very low.

129. Raise fares,cut or eleminate routes with low ridership.Reduce wages and benefits and use capital reserves for operating costs.

130. Trim jobs at the administrative level first!

131. Cut the size of this agency by at least one third to half of what it is today. 

132. Review management and administrative costs and salaries - and cut.

133. Put a temporaru freeze on salaries of upper management.

134. At $70m per employee year for semi-skilled labor, get rid of the union members and completly reorganize the Authority.  At present, private van taxies are probably cheaper.  Have WWU take care of their own student shuttle.  

135. stop spending money on bus decorations

136. I would base service on the ridership of each route and each day.

137. Consider the WTA a minimalist organization.  No extras, just plain service for those who don't or can't drive to get to their destination.  Barcelona, Spain has bicycle racks with bicycles to use all over town.  You pay a yearly fee, and have the right to get a bike from the rack and ride it to your destination and put it in the rack there.  Less pollution.  More exercise. Frankly, every time there is a public funded organization it tries to get bigger, expand services, do more.  It should really be kept small, on task, no extras.  The less money the government takes for things

138. like this, the more money a family has to supply their needs.

139. LAY PEOPLE OFF

140. Look for ways to cut administrative overhead.

141. let SKAT run the operation

142. drop many routes from 15 minute waits to half an hour... and smaller buses on less popular routes...

143. Hate to see those huge buses with 3 or 4 riders.  It would be cheaper to hire them all taxis.

144. Evaluate the schedule on a route-by-route basis

145. Cull half employees and cut routes that cant sustain themselves.  Sell the shop (temple) and sub-contract out all mainenance

146. cut costs

147. Use a smaller bus.

148.Make the price of a bus ride directly equivalent to the cost of that ride.  No subsidies in any form ever.

149. Cut the county service.

150.Increase the special fares rates for the most used routes/ groups,ie. WWU.

151. Raise fares to meet the actual cost of transporting each passenger, quit spending so damn much on decorating the buses, and quit buying such large buses that go around half empty or worse.

152. #2 increase fairs. #3 Privatize. #5 I don't know. #6 Privatize. I do not understand why the people who use the service should not pay for its entire operations? With the exception of the handicap who I believe could be covered by charities.

153. Ensure the WTA's contract with the Transit Union gets renegotiated and that the employees pay for health care benefits at a level similar to the proportion paid by those who work in the private sector. If a strike ensues, pursue the approach followed by Ronald Reagan when the air traffic controllers had to be replaced.

154. Cut expensive outer county routes or make those riders pay more for the service.

155. I have heard that they pay $18 an hour to clean out buses. This would seem to me to be an entry level type job with $10-$12 seeming more in

line. Maybe salaries throughout the whole company should be looked into.

156. eliminate little used routes.

157. It would be the same advice that I offer to any bloated, ineffective and wasteful beaurocratic agency. Downsize. Immediately.

158. Cut Back, Bus Stops and Bases should be basic, not architectural wonders. Thin out the administration offices, coordinate Para Transit pick up and deliveries.

159. Reduce the number of administrative positions and make the union pay more for their benefits permanently.

160. Pay private taxis instead of operating the mini buses to shepard elderly passengers whereever they desire to go.

161. Run Smaller buses or vans maybe.

162. When the next union contract comes up, negotiate for the revenues you have not the revenues you want.

163. Make changes to the benefits of the employees that bring their total compensation more in-line with the private sector population who is being taxed to pay the wages and benefits of WTA employees. Public sector employees should not be subsidized to a level higher than those who are taxed to pay for them.

164. Operate the WTA as if it were a business that had to be self sustaining, and become more efficient as private enterprises have to do to survive tough economic times. Raising taxes is only a temporary fix. Next year it will be in the same boat, without making changes and becoming fiscally responsible.

165. Operate only within the funds received and live on a budget.  If you can't afford it do without. Don't spend money you don't have.

166. Also I would suggest limiting the amount of service to the some county locations if necessary. 

167. de-unionize! Employees of government should not be able to unionize, look at California, look at the schools, look at the Federal Gov.!!

168. Operate within your means - at the end of the day if there are more expenses than revenues you need to cut unnecessary expenses first. 

169. Cut Sunday service     NO. 1

170. Go from 'ever 15 mintues to min of ever 1/2 hr'  

NO. 2

171.I cheated and put down two

172. Quit spending money on fancy buses, lay off some admninistration, stop automatic pay increases, have employees pay more of their own health care premiums, just for a start

173. Cut waste by eliminating "empty bus routes" in Whatcom County.  There are simply too many empty buses or very lightly loaded buses running around that are not generating enough revenue to justify their operation.

174. Privatize it! Hire a professional from a successful bus company to manage it!!!!!!

175. Figure out ridership, use smaller buses where able. NO FANCY PAINT JOBS!!!!!!!!!!!!!! SELL ADVERTISING SPACE.(if they don't already)

176. CUT A COMBONATION OF WAGES AND BENEFITS LEAVING NO WTA EMPLOYEE OUT....AFTER ALL...THEY ARE JUST BASICLY TAXI CAB DRIVERS!

177. OR ALLOW FARES TO RISE SO THOSE WHO USE THE SERVICE PAY MORE WHAT IT COSTS TO RUN THE SYSTEM...BUT, BY NO MEANS SHOULD WE ACCEPT RUNNING THESE BUSSES AROUND EMPTY, BURNING VERY EXPENSIVE FUEL AND DEPRECIATION ON THE BUSSES, JUST TO PROVIDE GOOD "JOBS" TO LOYAL VOTERS WHO SEEM TO CONSISTANTLY

VOTE TO SUPPORT FURTHER EXPANSION OF THEIR INTEREST OVER THE INTEREST OF THE CITIZENRY AT LARGE.

178. Cut administrative expenses and freeze all pay.

179. New Board and better management.

180. They get rid of the union.

181. eliminate under used routes.

182. Combination of renegotiating labor contracts and revising route schedule -- # of virtually empty buses suggests current routes are redundant and overserved – more an employment play for drivers than convenience to passengers.  Could probably reduce labor force and use more PT drivers if schedule were rationalized.  WWU students should also pay more.

183. Get rid of the Union but keep pay for employee's the same or close to it.

184.re question three. In addition to what's offered as options it might be worth rethinking the route structure as well. Is the fleet right sized?

185. Curb spending on new facilities, use smaller buses, go non union, whatever it takes. It is so heavily funded with tax payer money. They need to find ways to balance their budget without our money. Run it as a for profit company.

186. tAKE A LOOK AT ALL EXPENSES. tO INCLUDE THE TOP HEAVY MANAGEMENT.  SALARIES AND BENIFITS SHOULD ALSO BE ANNALYZED.  i'M SURE THEY COULD CUT 10% WITHOUT A SNEEZE!!!!

187. Vastly improved coordination of the scheduling of the specialized transportation buses.  They give every appearance of operating as large, expensive taxis currently, frequently with only one passenger.  It would be far cheaper to simply compensate private sector taxis for this kind of abusive use of public funds.

188. Raise fares.

189. I have not decided how to answser #3 yet, so I have left it blank.  One solution:  Use smaller buses during periods of low ridership and/or eliminate service during periods of low demand - that is what other large cities do where I have previously resided.  It is extremely irritating to see as many as three empty buses in a row at Sunset Square, at mid-day, with few or NO passengers. 

190. Quit buying new fleet every year and get rid of the people that do more talking than working meaning cut the size of admin.

191. Everyone has had to sacrifice during this recession and public

unions need to pick up the costs of more of their benefits just as

the private sector must and has all along.  Something is wrong when

the public employees are making more money in wages than the private.

Businesses are the engines for our economy and should be given the

breaks, not people who are paid out of our taxes.

192. The busses should look alike & not pay a designer for odd ball looks.

More efficient sized busses for the routs needs.

Definatley have staff & employees pay a larger amount for thier benifits.

I know thats more than one.

193. privative!

194. Tighten their financial belts without compromising service or harming the bus riding population. This could be done by temporary cuts in pay for the highest paid WTA employees and/or having employees pay more for their benefits. We have all had to, in general, cut back our pay in these economic times, so why not the WTA?

195. renegotiate with the unions. If they don't budge, fire them all and hire people to do their jobs at a realistic rate.

196. Reduce the every 15 minute bus service ( I think this is the green "go line"??) and change to every 30 minutes.

197.If the residents of the City of Bellingham want to continue the Sunday service, which is almost exclusively for city residents, perhaps city residents should be asked to approve a tax increase levied only on city residents.

198. Privatize. Licence local jitney and van services and sell the buses and infrastructures to a private, non union, for profit company.

199. cut all tax payer money to WTA and have those who use the service pay for it.

200. Get rid of the union.

201. Look at combinding less used routes, look at cutting sunday service, better scedgual specilized transport (multy pick-ups at same location insted of sending each call a buss)in this case 4 people call to get taken to the Dr. office all go to the same Dr. all have appt. 5 min. apart 4 different speclized busses stop at the same time at the same place to pick up 4 different people. My question is why can't they all ride the same buss? ask a senior they can tell how it really is. Statr charging to pick up seniors 25 cents 50 cents or $1.00 doesnt need to be alot. Just my openion.

202. Create a more business friendly attitude in Whatcom so that we attract

businesses. therefor more taxes are collected and the WTA gets out

of the hole.

203. quit whining and hang in there without generating a profit until the country/state can out of these difficult times.  Isn't that why you have a "surplus" (savings), your better off that most individuals.

204. Stop spending as if funds are unlimited.

205. Merit pay!

206. Look at the routes that have empty buses running all day long except for the morning and evening runs.

207. get rid of the Van Pool program, and cut down the dial a ride.  It costs enomously more per ride than the tax payers need to spend.

208. Across the board percentage cuts

209. use smaller buses on routes that routinely have fewer passengers and schedule less frequently on some routes.

210. Have half hour intervals instead of present l5 min. intervals between Svc. at each location within Bellingham.

211. Cut the Drivers wages by 15% for two years then Negotiate.Cut Excecitves by 20% for two years Then have them pay there own medical for two years and see how that goes.

212. Raise the fares by .50 in the city and to a $1.00 for outside of city limits to city.  This is still very cheap compared to driving a vehicle.

213. get  rid of the mini buses

214. An audit of every aspect (workspaces, buses, personnel, etc) of the service to find areas of waste and then use the existing staff's ideas and experiences to eliminate that waste.

215. Starting moving towards operating as a commercial business.  Getting rid of all the layers of management and becoming more efficient operation.

216. Cut services to Blaine, Ferndale, and Lynden since those cities decided that they do not want the increase in sales tax necessary to fund WTA  operations.

217. Get smaller, more fuel efficient transporters that that can typically be anticipated to have a least 30% of the seats occupied when leaving or arriving at their primary destination (such as downtown Bham or Lynden). 

218. Listen to all the people and not just the ones who are saying what the board wants to hear. Stop having and agenda and be responsible.

219. Adjust equipment use based on passenger count and adjust service to reflect hourly usage. Why use a 60 passenger bus when the normal passenger count is ten? Smaller buses use less fuel and have lower emissions. Where are the greenies when their input might actually do some good?

220. To be more prudent with capitol spending. I believe that the new sations are wonderful, however they are also very expensive. The new buses are also very colorful, and expensive

221. Eliminate routes with poor patronage and routes that overlap.  I really don't like to see two buses driving right next to eachother with 2 people in each bus. 

222. $70,000 as an average salary for drivers is too much....ruduce salaries or furlow some employees.........

223. Question #2 is a close call.  If the cut in Sunday service doesn't work, definetly negotiate with the union to have them shoulder their responsibility to pay more medical costs.  I'm getting real tired of paying my own way and having them and other government workers making more $$ than the rest of us who pay their own bills as well as lucritive salaries to them!

224. Actual budget! No frills, ie: Painted Busses- can't see out the darned windows anyway!!

225. Riders only pay apx 10% of the total cost of WTA. Why is this % so low. The riders should be paying at least 50% and more! Near empty buses going back and forth to the Kendall area and other remote areas of the County really irks me! Taxpayers like me that have NEVER used the WTA are simply paying way too much!!!

226. Accros the board reduction in services and LARGE cuts in the adim. staffing

227. replan routes based on ridership

228. Hire an independent efficiency expert and renegotiate with the union .

229. Cut all salaries 14% until their financial situation improves.

230. Slow down growth at this time. 

231. They must serve the folks that need them to getto work!

232. NO UNION  !!

233. As I drive by and see the old buses sitting in the grand parking lots - sell the old buses.  Also run less of the smaller personal buses.

234. SMALLER BUSES & ONE HALF HOUR OR ONE HOUR SERVICE NOT EVERY FOFTEEN MINUTS (MIN-NUTS)

235. Cut the size of the bus's DO NOT order new ones.  Ours are some of the best in the nation. EVEN our older smaller busses.  We do not need large busses running around empty. and we do not need the smaller 16 passanger bus to dispatch for a single rider.  That could be n a small van.

236. WTA must operate without the expectation of additional tax revenue.  I am a fiscal conservative who uses and appreciates the bus service.  When I travel, I seriously try to utilize mass transit.  I am accustomed to paying significantly more for service elsewhere than I do here (Twin Cities' Metro system at $2.25 per ride, Chicago's Metra at $4.50 for a ride of similar length to what I pay $1.00 for here).  I recognize that people are likely to change their habits to begin utilizing a bus system when prices are as low as they are here, but the ridership needs to bear a larger share of the cost in the long run.  A well-utilized bus service will benefit all citizens (traffic reduction and increased transportation options), including those who presently must drive or who choose to drive, so we should avoid an u-against-them mentality.  WTA is, for the most part, a well-run organization, but its riders should expect to pay more than they do currently.  Having said all of that, I recognize that fares at current rates make up a rather small portion of revenue so that reasonable fare increases would not generate sufficient amounts to balance the budget.  Salaries and wages would have to be readjusted as well. I've got other suggestions but they don't fit within this particular Q & A very well.

237. There seems to be way too many busses running around town and they barely have any people on them.  Why do we have these gigantic busses for every single route?  Use a big bus on the routes that might need them, and small ones for those that don't.

238. Change the board members as soon as possible

239. Run the smaller buses instead of the big ones during the slack times.

240.Why hasn't WTA worked with the local businesses that their routes pass by? With a University the local businesses must want people to spend money. I know I'd contribute philanthropically for a service if it would bring me business and promote public safety like running free 24HR service on Holidays that involve heavy alcoholic consumption...

241. Use the money on hand and go to the voters when all funds are used up.

242. Replace Board of Directors with people who have had real jobs and understand living withing a budget.   Cadillac service when Ford service would do is not sound judgment and nothing anybody would do if they were paying for it.

243. cut their budget....tighten their belts

244. increase the cost of riding the bus

245. Tell the unions that WTA can only afford a certain amount and they can take it or leave it. The borad has to be responsible and alert to all problems facing them head on and not wait until its to late to act.

246. Reduce the "Go Lines" to every 20 minutes vs 15. May not solve it all but better than cutting routes for those who do not have vehicles. 

247. Cut unprofitable services and raise fares to cover shortfalls.

248. Although I appreciate the level of service and quality equipment/facilities the WTA strives to serve to the community, it seems to be a level far exceeding the communities true needs. Clean, efficient, sustainable, well maintained equipment/facilities as well as appropriate route equipment sizing/quality should be the standard, as opposed to the current frivolous use of public funds.

249. Get a committee of experienced C.F.O.s with background in large transportation operations,(municipal,school district and private)to review the budget by line item with prior year costs for each line item. There needs to be a little trust built up between the public and their elected officials in the city.school districts,and other local taxing entities.I did not suggest the county as they are not always asking for more money.

250. Cut the 10 to 20 percent of the routes that aren't self supporting.

251. Do not do away with Saturday or Sunday. Evaluate ridership in the summer (when schools are out, and again in the fall when all schools and colleges are present, and readjust the size of the busses used.

252. Under NO CIRCUMSTANCES do not discontinue service for the disabled or elderly, which would only leave them with the option of using Taxi services, which they can't afford. Since these services are scheduled in advance

, proper planning could increase utilization of this service, withot requiring additional busses.

253. Design a pass system whereby a family unit could travel together by bus for a (low) flat fee for a one day pass, or a two/three days per week pass.  This is an unrecognized need in the community.

254. As a homeschooling parent, I have heard from other families attending events that they would take the bus more often, but the cost for a parent with 2 to 4 various aged children in tow, going to and from events

or making stops errands is prohibitive. Currently, it is much cheaper and less hassle to take the family gas-gussling van in spite of living directly on a city bus route.  Sad really in light of all the 'positive spin' placed on the proported affordability of the bus system for the working poor. Right now, the bus system is not receiving the revenue that it could otherwise *EARN* , as seats go empty and the backbone of our community is not served. Families riding buses would elevate standards of conduct on buses and promote the future ridership habits of the next generation.  It would also get more outlying area county families onto the buses already running in their districts.   

255. Sell it to the private sector to be run as a for-profit enterprise with no monopoly and no taxpayer subsidy. If it succeeds, great. If not, too bad. People should be able to get jitney licenses easily if they want to make a few bucks running minibuses around. Government is never the answer, except per the Declaration: to defend individual rights.

256. No more fancy painted buses and put advertising on them anyway.

Consider scaled down buses for under utilized but necessary routes. It's not saving gas if only 3 or 4 people use the bus. The bus that circles Lynden could use a 10 passenger van! My daughter rides this after school to the library so I know how few are riding. Also, it has to be on time. She quit riding it because it often made her late to dance class because it ran late! Start with small vehicles, add bigger ones as needed. I'm sure the only full buses are population specific like WWU.  Their class schedules are accomodated, but how many in Lynden commute to St. Joes? We have up to 5 in our carpool alone. We pass a bus coming to Lynden as we are heading to work, 20 min too late for a 7am shift. There is surely not enough to fill one of

those big buses. No matter how effcient they are, you can't beat our milage when we carpool. I don't get why we need huge buses out in the county.

257. Visit Skagit Transit and observe how much more modestly they appear to spend money(buses, facilities, etc.).   It was mentioned on the radio (KGMI) that WTA is one  of the best-rated public transit systems in the state.  We don't need the best; modest will serve us quite well.

258. icrease rates cut down on routes that carry minimal people at certian times like if you have a route that usually picks up 2 or 3 people after like 8 oclock at night cut those or like if there was a route on sunday that had minimal people then cut those

Of the names listed below, which do you favor to run against Patty Murray?

 

Paul Akers                          23.32% 

Don Benton                          0.00% 

Clint Didier                          19.84% 

James Mercer                       0.00% 

Dino Rossi                           56.30% 

Sean Salazar                         0.54% 

What does the entry of Dino Rossi into the race mean?

 

There is now a better chance to beat Patty Murray    75.21% 

There is now less of a chance to beat Patty Murray   24.79% 

Here is a list of questions that the  fourth corner asked subscribers in a recent survey and the results.  There were over 450 responses in this unscientific survey. 

There were over 260 individual responses to question 3 below. They are printed here as they were received. 

3. Tell us what you think about Republican Candidates in the US Senate Race

1. I feel that Dino is the only one that could beat Patty Murray.

2.  I. love Akers to pieces, but Rossi more likely to win.  Hope Rossi pulls Akers into his campaign (and office) in a very meaningful way.

 

3. Any R is better than Murray.  

4. There are a number of great candidates.  Only Rossi can come close to matching Murray's 6 million dollar bank account. 

5. Republicans have the best conservative candidates running this year than I can ever remember.

6.  I think that Washington voters (and voters across the country) are looking for fresh faces and real people. That is why I favor Paul Akers because he is very real and untainted by political experience.

7. I have'nt researched the candidates views yet.  Whoever is the most constitutionally conservative will get my vote.  After some questions from the TEA party the RIGHT choice will stand above all others.

8. I prefer Didier but I think DR has a better chance to beat Murray

9. Some great choices!

10. Poor Dino…frankly, I think it will be impossible to elect a Republican to any of

the top seats in Washington State government if there is anything short of a “blow

out”. It always comes down to King County and their ability to recount until they have the correct number.

11. Paul’s entry into the race was like a breath of fresh

air. While Dino does have name recognition, he will most assuredly attract the

anti-Dino vote.

12. Akers, as a relative unknown, had a better chance to avoid the

anti-vote…in my opinion.

13. we need new people to act as citizen legislators, not politicians.

14. Rossi has the name recognition, needed to win. Without him in the race my next two

would be Didier or Akers. Whatever happens, all must get STRONGLY behind the front

runner and put all their effort into helping to ensure a true conservative takeover

of the Senate. 

15. I like Paul Akers, though he does make me think of some one with ADHD and I like

Clint Didier, I just think Dino Rossi has a better chance to win.  Personally I

wish Clint Didier would win and give the folks from the eastern side of the state

a voice for a change!

16. I think we have A FEW ethical candidates running - ones who will practice conservative

principals.

 

17. We need someone with a fresh name and a new start. Dino waited too long to get in

the race and it smacks of the same old same old. The first time the governor's

election was stolen from him but the second time, he couldn't pull it off. Didier

offers new energy and hopefully a clean slate. People are waiting for a leader

to articulate true conservative principles of limited government and more individual

liberty.

18. I watched Dino Rossi absolutely destroy Christine Gregoire in every debate during

his campaign for governor. I believe that given the chance to debate Patty Murray

, people may actually pay attention to it - which would give him a great chance

to win!

19. We really like Paul Akers, but don't think he has enough statewide recognition to

win. So, Dino Rossi is probably the best choice for now.

20. Salazar and didier I beleive are the truest constitutional conservatives. Roosi

is passe and to beholden

21. lack of name recognition with the exception of Dino assures Patty is in for another

6 years

22. I feel that Rossi was deceitful in not filing sooner, and created problems for the

GOP.  Akers is really working hard and is truly dedicated in his mission. He is

a business person will respect his constituency. Rossi is a RINO and a politician

and will be another of the same D. C. ilk.

23. I might prefer another candidate in a perfect world, but I think Rossi has the best

chance of beating Murray.

24. Salazar - nice guy....but....no face recognition

Paul Akers - just don't dig him, probably because he's short (like Rahmbo and my ex-husband

Dino Rossi - sent him money in his last run against the grinch.  He should have won, and in fact did

win, if you didn't invoke the "third time's a charm" loop hole. However, he sat

on his ass while all the other candidates spent time and money to cover this state

on behalf of all disenfranchised Republicans. The people who supported Dino in

the past, are far too angry with him to support him now.  Unfortunately, he has

become the epitome of what former Republicans are sick of; another selfish, career

politician who only cares about himself. Didn't he see the most recent election

results?  Even Republican incumbents lost!  Dino, I don't know a soul who supports

you now, especially after coming in so late after the other candidates made their

commitment. How many Tea Party events have you been to Dino?  Can you say, "Arrogant!

Self-centered! Egotistical!"  Knew ya could.  Dino screwed conservative voters

big time on this one. May as well of just handed Patty the race on a silver platter

.  With that said.....Clint Didier is the man to beat.  He is what a lot of old

fashioned Americans refer to as a "regular guy."  He's approachable, humble and

passionate about restoring respect and conservative values back into Washington

politics.  It doesn't hurt that he's a farmer, as well as one of America's former

sports gladiators. So, he took some subsidiary money...without it - ALL of our

farmers may as well be dead!  Clint Didier is my Davy Crocket/Daniel Boone, and

I've only met the man ONE time.  Now, aren't you glad you asked?

25. I am for anyone that has a better chance of beating Patty.

We need representatives who will stand up against the spin of Washington, listen

to the people and to remember that we voted them in.

26. Good

27. I am conflicted about Rossi because I don't know if he'll be regarded as a 2-time

loser (even though he WON the first election for governor).  We have so many good

candidates that I hate to see them go to waste.  We haven't had a US Senator from

Eastern Washington since the 1930's.  Didier is a very good man.

28. Rossi is about as good as we have, but still weak.

WA-GOP needs to develop some talent for the future.

29. The idea that R. Larsen is apt to win again absolutely

gags me.

30. I think Dino is the only one who can beat Patty Murray!!!!! He's getting my financial

support.

31. do not know much about any except rossi

32. all good guys - it's a hard choice  -I like Dino a lot, I'm going with Akers tho

' he doesn't yet have the name recognition like Dino has -  whoever gets the nod

we'd better all get behind him - beating Murray is the main goal 

33. Rossi should have declared a long time ago. He should be running for governor.

34. There are some good choices.

35. Any true conservative sent to DC will be positive.

36. I think the choices are great!  Dino brings name recognition but I'm not very sure

of his views at this point. I've listened to Paul Akers on the radio and really

like his perspective.  Don Benton's positions line up with mine, too.  I don't

know much about the other three candidates yet.

37. This should have been SSSSOOOOO much better organized.  Many large organizations

that would have supported Rossi had he got in early are now stuck with endorsements

of other individuals.  What a mess!  Moreover, it gat Murray the impression that

she is more in the know than Rossi since she has been campaigning against him for

almost 6 months now.  I'm really sorry this whole thing has happened.

38. As much as I like Dino, he is a politician and what we need are businesslike leaders

.  Clint Didier fits that bill and has a good chance to beat Murry.  Dino's entry

will raise interest in the race and will ultimately help beat Murry by bringing

more attention to the race.  But, I think the voters are looking for some new faces

and ideas.  Should be interesting.

39. Didier definately resonates with honesty, hard work, and ethics.

Akers is 2nd best of the race

Rossi has the name, could win if all others threw pledged monies and

endorsements his way.Benton & Mercer, no comment....Salazar....wow.....he's

a "Progressive" running as a "R"....he's setting us up, fake, phoney, mafia. "Obama

's Brother" describes the way I view him.

.....

40. I am unsure.  Dino might have a better chance, but a more conservative candidate

would be my choice.  Akers would be good, but Didier probably has a better chance

of winning.

41.  I have not read up enough to really express any pros and cons at this point.  Paul

Akers strikes me as someone who is not a

politician and will bring some fresh

air to the system.  We need some very strong, conservative business men to help us get out of this mess.

42.I think they're all quite good. I prefer Clint Didier because he's fresh and highly

principled, and has good name recognition. However, I think Dino Rossi has even

better name recognition, although I think he's more of a good old boy politician

, and borderline RINO. But I'll take any Republican challenger over Patty Murray

and her party.

43. Does Dino have too much baggage?  Do we need a 'fresh' face.  Maybe I just want

us to win this race so much that I am not sure what is best...

44. Patty always wins when she is facing "unknowns"  Dino is NOT unknown and has a much

better chance to unseat her than do the others in the race.

45. I am very sorry that Dino Rossi did not declare earlier so that several really good

candidates (particularly Paul Akers and Clint Didier) didn't spend their financial

resources in pursuing a position.  The one good thing about their participation

is that their names became more familiar with the public.  At least I hope that

is true.

46. I'm glad that so many men have come forward to offer their services to represent

our state. Paul Akers and Clint Didier were my choices until Dino Rossi threw his

hat into the ring. The one thing he has is name recognition and is a fabulous speaker

and I feel he would easily defeat Murray with the Tea Party backing.

I don't think we want professional policitians this year.  The Rupublican Party

Head Hunters just dont' get it. Just as in Florida, Washignton state voters want

a clean clear candidate.  

47. Didier and CG Comdt Thad Allen cut from the same cloth -- both forthright and totally

objective.  We need "independents" not dependent on phone-solicitations like the

two from Rossi in two hours just today (6 June).

48. no names equal no wins

49. The Republicans need the best option to defeat the current office-holder (Murray). The 6 million dollar war chest she has will be nearly impossible to overcome  when a relatively unknown candidate runs against her. I feel that Dino Rossi has the best chance to succeed.

50. i am not as up on these gentlemen as i need to be, but all in all, i want patty

murray OUT and i think dino has the experience and readiness to beat her.

IF he begins to look weak, i would vote (and still may in the primary) for clint.

51. We have to win from Everett to Tacoma to win the State. Even though I prefer Didier

, I think Rossi could best do this.

52. I am torn about Dino entering the race.   I feel that he had his chance to run.

53. Even if the election was stolen from him, which I believe it was.   I think he has

to much political baggage and that may turn the race ugly.  I have heard Clint

Didier and Paul Akers speak.  I like Mr. Didier because he is a honest hard working

american.   I could relate with him and appreciate that he is not just a polished

talking head.   My take first time hearing  Mr. Akers speak was at the Lincoln

Dinner.  He came across arrogant.  He may speak well but I was put of by his manner

.  The first thing that came to mind was he reminded me of Rick Larsen.   And as

an aside, his picture on all of his is a real turn off.  It shows someone who has

a big head.   Hope this helps.

54. Paul seems very serious and dedicated to helping improve senate decisions/laws. 

I like his attitude and considerable efforts ,so far, mostly at his own expense.

55. It is a shame the Dino waited so long to decide to 'run' !

56. I think Paul Akers is a strong candidate but don't think he can win because he has

no state-wide name recognition. Republican candidates need to believe in and work

for smaller government, less regulation, lower taxes and rolling back the outragious

spending of the last two years especially. They need to support eliminating Obamacare

and oppose further bailouts or any more nationalization of industries. They need

to support a balanced budget, a strong national defense, secure our borders, make

us energy independent by utilizing our own oil and gas resources, taking advantage

of nuclear energy and clean coal and building new refineries. They need to reverse

our abandoning of the core principles of our Founding Fathers and uphold the Constitution

. They need to unite all Americans and stop the pitting of one group against another

. They need to refute the global warming hoax and all the regulation and taxation that result from that belief system. They need to strongly support Israel and oppose  Iran. They to stop apologising for America. They need to love our country and revere all the good she has done for the world and its peoples.

57. I only know about Paul Akers and Dino Rossi and believe either of them would be

good for the state. Personally I believe Dino should stick to the governers race

though.

58. Dino should have entered the race earlier, if he wanted to run.  He has wasted lots

of assets, money, materials and volunteer's time.

59. Good conservative values

60.Happy to see some new names throwing their hat in! 

61. Out w/ the old!

62. Dino Rossi could do well, but let's NOT put up a candidate who is a fine fellow,

but is also bereft of fresh ideas and always does what he does with his finger in

the air.

63. Akers trying to convince voters he can better represent because he's been successful

with business and promoting related commercial concepts.  Liberals don't give a

damn about responsible management, only how to redistribute producers' profits.

64. Rossi understands the oppositions' mentality & should be able to use against them

65. ALTHOUGH I THINK ROSI CAN BEAT MURRY ,I BELIEVE DIDIER COULD HAVE AS WELL. HE HAS

REALLY DONE WELL SIGNING THE STATE.

66. What I know to date, I think Akers, Rossi abd Salazer could represent me with a

level headed practical approach.  I know nothing about Benson, Mercer and very little

of Didier's skills for the job.

67.  A new fresh face.  I've met Dino Rossi, he comes off "plastic", I'm afraid he'll

be a good ole boy.  He has a lot of support, I know, but, really do we want to

win?  We need someone new, fresh faced, no baggage!!  Someone who will go to washington

dc and really represent the state of washington.

68. I like Dino but Akers has great ideas

69. I think Dino has lost it...

His heart isn't in it and all he has left is name recognition

.

70. Paul Akers is the one with the most REAL experience creating REAL jobs... with

the authentic leadership and passion to get things done RIGHT!

71. The field is too cluttered; some are too far right to win in a general. patty Murray

should be vulnerable, but Republicans are divided--the circular firing squad thing

72. I want someone that is NOT a career politician, but I especially want Patty to pack

it up and go home!

73. Dino is a winner

74. I will not be voting for ANY Republicans, nor will I be voting for ANY Democrats

, both of those political parties are authoritarian supporters of big government

and the welfare/warfare state.  If there is o libertarian on the ballot in a race

I will be voting NOTA (None Of The Above).  The Republicans have been just as complicit

in the loss of freedom and liberty and the growth of government (at all levels)

as the Democrats and neither of those two parties deserves ANYONE's vote, ever again

.

75. Best field of choices in years - maybe best ever. 

Paul Akers - He is an example of the problem already in DC.

Don Benton - No information

Clint Didier - A solid conservative with the right values

James Mercer - No information

Dino Rossi - Rhino

Sean Salazar - No information

I don't know enough about any of them to give an intelligent opinion.

76. Fresh new faces are welcome, especially if they are fiscally responsible and have

a successful business background.

77. It splits up the vote even more. We went to the first town hall meeting that Paul

Akers held, and I was impressed with what he said and his honesty. I have also

heard Clint Didier and liked what he said. However, we are supporting Paul.

78. Five mice

79. We have competent candidates running this year.  Finally.  I wish Dino would have

announced earlier.  We could have used some of these folks in other races in the

state.

80. Rossi has more clout than any other people running, and is far better known as far

as candidates. If we rally behind him quickly we can build momentum and stand a

realistic shot at dethroning Murray.

81. We have a lot of great candidates to choose from, so I say, vote for the person

that can beat Patty Murray, and Dino Rossi has the most name recognition, not to

mention Dick Morris support. That's a big net!

82. Paul Akers accomplishments and presentation is impressive.  He is not a professional

politician and that may help this year.

83. Too soon to tell.  I'm hoping for clear & consistent focus on fiscal discipline,

with emphasis on reducing spending, including entitlements, and a host of other

free-market, pro growth measures.  End earmarks and corporate welfare.  Etc. 

For what I know of them right now they seem like decent candidates.

Notwithstanding Dino Rossi's sketchy record in the previous two gubernatorial races

, he has better name recognition and I would assume at this point a better organization

for helping him run the campaign. Might have more of his own money, as well. Fund

raising is tough in the current economy so personal wealth may be a player. He

is an insider and that may not play well in the current grass roots political environment

. But if he is our best  hope to unseat Murray then we must do it. Paul Akers comes

across nicely but he is. like the rest an unknown. Same for Didier but to a lesser

extent that Akers. The rest? Not much there so far.

Bet the big horse is my

guess.

84. I don't know all of them but I could vote for all against Patty Murray

85. Dino Rossi has lost the governor's race and was tainted in the process.  Though

he has great name recognition, he will have a tough row to hoe. 

86. Paul Akers appeals

to me because of his personal philosophy, however, he is overly optimistic as a

political new comer.  His political inexperience will probably difficult to overcome

.

87. Akers, Rossi, Salazar are GREAT candidates, don't know others, except Benton, whom

I'm not a fan of. Murry should be easy to defeat, bad local interview Tuesday on KGMI, pertaining to housing for homeless veterns

Rossi is the only candidate with the ability to beat Murray. The others should drop out and back him. The sooner the better. We are going to need all the money available to beat her so let's not spread it around to candidates that are unelectable.

88. I like Paul Akers and Dino Rossi. I'm excited to see either one running after Patty

's seat. May the best man win to run against her and I will back either one at the

elections.

89. They need to rember who they work for and who pays them. I expect them to up-hold

the constituation of the U.S. not constrew it to sute them or there interests.

above all they need to rember it's we the people. Not! we the goverment! also enough

TAX and SPEND I'm going broke paying the goverment's bills, Get the HELL out of

my pockets

90. Akers and Rossi are hard workers and have a good chance.

91. I would vote for a ham sandwich if that was the only choice other than dirty tennis

shoes!

92.Rossi has the name but Akers would make a better Senator.

93. I wish that Dino would not take his family into Wash. D.C.  But now that he has

decided, I will support him.  I would support ANYONE running against Patty.

94. I am for Akers and Didier but Rossi has best chance to win.

Rossi is great but I think we need new people to run and didier would be my choice

95. I like all the candidates and think anyone of them would be an improvement over Patty Murray.  I favor Paul Akers because of his involvement in Lean and Kaisan

96. Improvement, which are an innovative way to maximize the process to better serve

the employee and the customer.  I think such a style would benefit D.C.

I plan not to vote for any of the incumbents. I have voted for Dino Rossi in both

governor elections.  I don't feel either election was handled fairly.  I would

of really like to see him won the governor's seat. I'm sure our State would not

be in such a poor economic position if Mr. Rossi had won.

97. We will support whichever Republican wins the primary, but Paul Akers made the commitment

early, is not a career politician, successfully runs a business, respects people, supports the Tea Party Movement, and supports Fair Tax.

98. Unfortunately I am unable to respond to the above questions because I have only

seen signs from these people, not info on policies, beliefs and voting histories

. It may have been out there, I just haven't seen it. However, I VOTE STRICTLY PRO

-LIFE, and strongly small, hands and minds out of the average citizen pockets and

homes/life choices, government. I will never, ever, ever vote for Patty Murray,

ever, ever, ever. I am also tired of standard republicans without backbones. So

whichever one of the above turns out to fit this profile will be the one I vote

for and work to elect. 

99. I honestly don't know much about any of them.  I hear Akers on his local show about

entrepenuership and I like his attitude.  Murray, "the little mom in tennis shoes

" claims that the others don't have the experience or background to be able to do

the job.  I really hope she keeps saying that, because if anybody fit that charge

it was her.  (Is she still ranked at the bottom of the intelectual barrel in the

Senate?)  Secondly I hope that the republicans have the stones to actually go after

their opponent with the same or more vigor that the liberals use to go after them.  I hope that they are willing to call the press on the 'Gotcha journalism' that is used on them.  Be willing to point out the double standard that is used against

them.        I know, I know,......I'm dreaming again. at this time unknown

100. I;ve oly seen Didier and was impressed

101. Republicans need to move forward AND listen to what the voters want.

If they don't support term limits, and smaller,union-free government, they will

NOT recieve my donations or vote.....

102. I wish Dino had jumped in at the beginning....I think waiting might have hurt him

as others have already been campaigning.  Dino has name recognition but might not

get the ticket...

103. Several Good CHOICES. . 

104. I don't know much about any of the candidates at this point. I am not authorized

to vote in a primary in this state. However, I know it will be harder with Dino

in the race because this is his third at bat, and now looks like the GOP machine

trying to cash in on the t-party movement. I have heard sentiment from registered

republicans saying that he is the "most" electable candidate, because of name recognition

. I disagree. I believe that anybody (and I stress anybody) running againts murray

will win. With Rossi in the mix, we have a chance at a chagrinned third party running

for office, which will keep Murray in power.

105. I personally don't vote Party, Parties and complacent voters are what made this

country such a mess. I vote US Constitution and Person. Dino has a strong Constitution

minded track record and his time in the WA State Congress has shown that he has

the knowledge and wisdom needed to maintain a rational and responsible fiscal policy

; TellDino.com and other resources have also shown that Dino really does care what

the people he Represents want. Unlike wallet filling finks like Murray and Larson

who have all but stated outright they only care about themselves and no one else

. 106. If this State has an Honest Election there's no reason Dino won't win!

107. I was thinking of Akers and Didier..haven't made up my mind. Now with Rossi's entry, I still don't know. After Rossi's run for governor, his name is more recognizable than the other two but yet I didn't want 'another' politican but someone 'fresh

'.

108. They are all fine candidates, howerver Dino Rossi was robbed of the governorship

. It is time for payback.

109. Too many of them .  The money (donations) gets spread too thin

110. Rossi will be the GOP establishment candidate. What is the point of that? If the

GOP leadership takes control of the Senate, it will be more wars instead of more

welfare. We need change - change to following the Constitution. I think Didier

is a better bet.

111. I don't know enough about the differences between Didier and Rossi. It's more confusing

because there are so many. It seems like it would increase the chance she could

win because there is no clear choice in the large group of Republicans. I liked

112. Didier, now Rossi is in. All I know is he lost twice when he ran for governor!

i like clint and paul because they are not politicians they are like the rest of

us that had to work and fail and succeed to get where they are now

113. Dino Rossi won the govenorship of our state and is the best canidate to beat Patty

Murray.  We must keep the voting honest so that the right winner fills the office

. No recounts until the Dems get what they want.

114. I sure hope we pick someone that can win and get this state back on track.

Dino has name familiarity and I think has the best chance to win.  Lets put our

best candidate out there.  Lets take the Senate.

115. Dino has the experience of political B.S. that we are subject to and I think the

honesty of his convictions will be true to form on looking out for us.

116. I think Dino waited too long to enter the race, I think he dilutes the chance at

this point because people have built allegiance and donated to other campaigns.

There are a lot of them.  It goes without saying that I'd vote against murray

I have studied the website positions of Akers & Didier - and I know enough about

Rossi to know that although he seems to be quite popular as a candidate - of those

three - Aker's issue positions more nearly parallel mine that he has my vote and

support.  I'm not happy with Rossi because I feel he should have announced earlier

and maybe the Republican field would be less crowded.  If I were the WA Democrat

Party, what I would do is offer an attractive Democrat candidate to oppose Patty

Murray - because under WA State Election law, the top two vote getters regardless

of party will go forward to the General Election.  If the Democrat's limit their

candidates in the primary - with the Republican vote being split between 6 candidates

, it is very possible that they could have both candidates on the general ballot

and NO Republican candidates - beings the R's didn't get enough votes to be in

the "top two".  The Dem's could probably get a "sacrificial" candidate to go against

Murray - and then just not support him/her in the general.  If I were a Dem leader

, that is exactly what I would do!  Food for thought. And Dino's entry into the

race when we already had good enough candidates in the race - is simply his own

ego. GO AKERS! gk 

117. Very good with Dino, not so good with the others.

118. Rossi is the only one who stands a chance to beat Murray.

119. They're the only ones I'll vote for

120. Why not give Clint Didier a chance.

121.There are too many Republican candidates in the race, and I am disappointed that Dino Rossi entered. I hope we're not the

party of "stupid."

122. Lots of good candidates, all with some slight downsides in who they appeal to, track

record, name recognition, etc, but any would be an improvement over Patty.

123. I was leaning toward Paul Akers but I think Dino would be a stronger candidate. 

He does need to be a little more passionate.

John

124. I haven't paid a lot of attention to the U.S. Senate race.  I need to learn more

about the candidates.  I'm eager for Senator Murray to be replaced, and for John

Koster to defeat Congressman Larsen.

125. I favor Paul Akers for what he is rather than just what he says.  Akers is a do-

er and an innovator who walks his talk.  He consistently runs better in the polls

than any other GOP candidate against Murray, with the exception of Rossi.  I think

that Rossi has waited to see which way the wind blows before deciding to enter

the race.  If he can't defeat our current Governor, I don't see how he is going

to defeat Murray.

126. Didier claims to be a staunch conservative, which is good,

but so far as I can tell, his campaign seems to define him with football metaphors

rather than saying specifically what he would do if elected. 

127. Akers is specific about how he would go about influencing other Senators to effect positive change in Washington, D.C.

128. I think Rossi should stay out.  I think he just wants recognition and does not have

any passion for the job.  He blew the governors race last time because he came

across as not really wanting it.  He has no passion.  he is a politics as usual

type of guy.  He had his chance.

Paul Akers is the best choice

129. I will vote for Paul Akers in primary. If Dino gets it I will vote for him but donot

like the way he waited so long to put his name out. There are too many running

anyway. Lets get behind one.

130.  I really don't know the answer to these. People are fed up with established politicians

on both sides of the aisle. As reflected by the fact that Murray is actually going

to have to work to get re-elected in this crazy liberal state. I campaigned for

Rossi in his last run for Governor and think he would be a good senator...but I

wonder if people see him as an "established politician" even though his is not

currently in office? I like Didier a lot but that probably means he is too far right

for the state as a whole. I don't know much about the rest.

131. I think we have some good strong candidates.

The more they identify with the Tea Party movement and the less with the Republican

Party, the greater their chance of victory.  Many of us are tired of business as

usual, and Republicans are as guilty as Demoncrats.  All of the candidates need

to emphasize a return to a government based on the Constitution.  Also, those who

promise, in writing, to serve no more than six years will gain widespread support

.

132. I want a candidate who will cutting spending period not a career political like

Dino Rossi. 

133. Paul Akers has the best ideas and is a fresh face.   Next is Clint Didier.   Dino

is and looks a little too much like the politition.

134. There were very good choices even before Dino Rossi announced. Paul Akers is the

one with experience creating jobs, which is what we need right now.

135. Rossi is an opportunist who did what he has always done - delay announcement of

candidacy - screwing others who have already worked their butts off gathering money

for the race.  Rossi is no different than the rest of the politicians, and I'll

leave my ballot blank for that position rather than vote for him in the general

election - if he makes it there.

136. I hope Dino defeats Patty.

137. Name recognition is the name of the game in this state becauce of all the lost souls

in Seattle, Bellevue, the rest of King County , Thurston, Pierce and Snohomish

Counties. we are over run with lost causes and need the best known and competent

  candidate and it is my opinion that Dino is that person. I know and respect all

the others but they are far less known. They all deserve a chance to serve let

them step up and hold elected office before they go after Murry. Let them hold off

and go after the other one, whose name excapse me , at this time but most could

hold two years worth of office if they really want to be in competition. In addition

to that they should show what theye are made of and it is hoped that is is not

138.  more of the same political fodder of career politician.

139. I know the most about Akers, Didier, and Rossi; little about Benton; nothing about

Mercer or Salazar.  With so many candidates I hope they can keep everything positive

and not trash each other on the way to the primary thereby reducing the chance

of ousting Murray in November.  From what I know about the candidates I think Akers

or Rossi would be the best US Senator - they have the right positions on major

issues and a record of doing good things that could translate well to the Senate

140.   I think Akers is not very well known around the state and Rossi may be saddled

with losing the Governor's race twice (really only once, but let's not go there).

Akers or Rossi would be vastly superior to Murray as a Senator.  I'm concerned

, however, that Murray, with a $6MM war chest and all the connections the fourth

ranking D in the Senate has, will have more resources than Akers or Rossi in the

campaign. On merit it would be a blowout for Akers or Rossi over Murray; unfortunately

elections are rarely just about merit.

141. Only Dino Rossi has the name recognition and experience to take on Patty Murray. 

The others are not known well enough to have much of a chance.  Dino is also conservative

and will be liked by the Tea Party folks.

142. Dino (of course) and Paul Akers are the most impressive, and I think the most electable

.  It's wonderful that the others have stepped forward -- a deep candidate pool

is an advantage. 

143. I like Akers a lot - don't know the others.

144. Rossi is a good politician but may be tagged as "loser" with the election swaying

populace of King County.  Murray came out of nowhere and first won on her unique

mom in tennis shoes... but who funded her campaign?  Someone "unknown" could win

but it will take a unique "twist" again to do so & catch the attention in the large

counties... and lots of funding!

145. Dino waited too long. This screws other candidates. No fire in his belly. He may

be a good person, but he is "shop worn."

146.The important defining issue)s) are where candidates stand on MORAL questions -

everyone is fiscally conservative - which is important - but the most important

quality is CHARACTER to restore our nation.  Dino is a close second.  The rest are not clear where they stand.

147. Any one of the candidates would be a vast improvement over Patty M.

148. I think Paul Akers, Clint Didier and Dino would make good candidates. Don't know

the other two.

149.  Akers is a good speaker but without experience.  He is also a good promoter.  We

know little or nothing about the rest of them except Dino Rossi.   Rossi had a

good track record in Olympia and can get things done. I think Dino comes with a lot of baggage, and although he is a solid man, he represents the kind of politician I think many folks are trying to steer away from. Mr. Didier

represents more of what the sentiment of the voting public is at this time.

150. The more the merrier, provided they are quality candidates.  We need to take back

our nation and reset our priorities.  

151. These are good quality candidates, however we need a candidate that is a breath

of fresh air, has proven leadership experience and understands job creation. I believe

Paul Akers is the man for the job.

152. I do not like question 2. It should include

the question - makes no difference to be objective.

153. No-one campares to Paul Akers.  He's one of a kind. Just get to know him.  Dino

is too late - he should stay out.  We don't need another politician - we need real

people.

154. Dean Rossi is a two-time loser. Clint Didier is an ex-jock. Paul Akers has a proven

track record as a businessman. Don't know who the other three people are.

155. I was hoping that Dino would wait and run against Cantwell,  we have a strong field

of candidates to run against Patty this year, almost any of whom can out-debate

her on the issues.  Cantwell is alot smarter than this current crop of candidates

but Dino could beat her.

156. Dino is part of the establishment. Even if he wins we will not win the next term

.Not getting new voters with him. Benton and mercer I don't enough about. Salazar

is gaining new voters to the republican party.Will be long time voters. Can win

both sides oof the cascades. Unfortunatly he does not have the money.Didier has

problems, cannot win general. Akers has no charisma. 

Intelligent with real world experience and not a previous office holder are all

big pluses.  Rossi fits that as well as any but he has already lost big time elections

- twice. All the candidates espouse conservative values. Hopefully the are all

genuine and they will not cave in to liberal/democratic pressures as have many of

our current office holders. I don't know them very well yet but Didier  has the

support of Sarah Palin and that says a lot. 

157. I like Didier better but Rossi will bring in the level of money that will be needed

for success.  We should all be completely supportive and stop bickering over the

late entry...

158. I want a real person, for me the person is Clint Didier. I have to say the Seattle

Times put out a piece about his supsidies and it made news all across the stare

. Yet when they put in an editorial apology that they got all their facts wrong

, no word! I sm voting for him on principals!!!!

159. They need to concentrate on key conservative issues and values, clearly highlighting

where they stand on issues and how they oppose the liberal platform and record

of Patty Murray.

160. I don't know enough about them to comment....

161. I am not sure who all of them are.  I think the most important thing is to find

someone who cares about America and wants to see it returned to the place it used

to be in the eyes of the World

162. There are good conservative candidates running...

163. We, at this time have not spent enough time learning about the candidates running therefore we feel we cannot comment

164. .  Dino Rossi is known state wide because of his win against our current governor

, so feel he would have a better chance to defeat Patty.

165.They appear to be strong men of conviction and integrity.  Some I know something

about...some I have a very vague knowledge.  This is ambigous I know, however so

is this race.  You just can not know all the candidates, but you do have a feeling

by the way they project their candidacy.  Thanks for asking.

166. I am putting all my support into Rossi. He is more electable than all the other

candidates combined. Conservatives need all the horsepower they can get to power

past the influence of King and Pierce counties.

167. Most candidates stress that when they are in office, the government will do 'different

'  or 'better' things.  I am looking for a candidate who will assure me that the

government will do FEWER things.

168. We need someone that will be honest with us and that can not be bought.  I am not

real familiar with any of the candidates but hope to do more reading about them

.

169. I think that all the Republican candidates need to say positive things about each

other so that we have a unified republican voter group, regardless of who wins

the primary election.  We want to get rid of Murry, and all of the choices are better

than her, so lets get the word out that all the candidates get along, and support

whoever wins the primary.  Keep away from issues that divide republicans or moderates

during the primary election campaign.  If a candidate says something negative about

another moderate or conservative republican, the republican party should talk with that candidate and have them change their message. 

Thanks for listening!

170. I don't know the answer to any of these questions.  I haven't seen enough information

on any of these guys.  I fear too many opponents will just dilute the vote and Patty will be still in office.

Paul Akers is great. Dino Rossi is great.  Even Clint Didier would have been a good

candidate.  I had already started campaigning for Akers when I found out Dino was

going to run.  Was I the only one who didn't know he was entering the race?  I

think Akers has a REALLY good start.  With Dino entering, it will split both of

their votes.  I wish Dino had gotten an earlier start.  

171. We have great candidates running for Senate but Dino is known and has the legislative

experience needed in D.C.  He has been around the block and knows the rules.  Money

is tight and we prefer putting our dollars toward the candidate that has the greatest

possibility to win.

172. The republicans need to change and get back to there roots and be more for small

gov. and keep there hands out of my wallet. The gov shouldn't grow 40% while republicans

are in office.

173. I could vote for anyone one of them but I think Rossi has the best chance of beating

Murray. Let's keep our eyes on the prize!

174. Dino Rossi is the strongest candidate to defeat an incumbent. We're putting all

of our support to his race.

175. People who loose recounts...will continue to loose

176. It's hard to say. Not overjoyed Rossi stepped in. Just because the GOP is throwing

it's $$$ at his campaign, doesn't mean he's the best guy for the job. Shoot - his

website and email aren't even up and running right. I really like the grass roots

folks, Akers, Benton, Salazr, I just wish we could assimilate them into one Super

candidate:)

177. I realy like Paul Akers and would vote for him and I am torn between him and Rossi

.  But push comes to shove I think he could beat Patty.

178. Need some great challengers to the Dems in the Senate - Marilyn

179.Get behind the candidate most likely to defeat murray. Dino has name recognition

an possibly a positive factor due to his unfair treatment in the last race.  He

is by far a better chjoice than Murray.

180. So far, I don't know that much about any of them.

181. Believe Dino Rossi has a better chance than the other candidates because he's more

widely known and in reality won the Governorship against Gregoire until voter fraud

was employed by the Dems.....my concern is we will face voter fraud for whoever

runs against Patty Murray.  I'm impressed with Clint Didier and Paul Akers, like

their core values, energy and enthusiasm to get US back on the right track.  Unfortunately

for them, Dino Rossi has the notoriety and I want the best chance we have to vote

182. Patty Murray out of office. I wish Dino Rossi had entered the race earlier.  

I am not sure that Dino Rossi will fully support the Constitution of the United

States to extent that Mr. Akers will. I also like Mr. Didier for his stance.

Charlie: I still have a lot of respect for Dino, but S. Palin is backing Didier

and up to now who ever Sarah endorses that canidate moves up in the polls.

183. Charlie: Sarah Palin  has endorsed Didier. So for now its Didier

Thanks for all

your efforts Charlie-

184. Why I would vote for Rossi is that I think Dino Rossi has a higher profile in the

state (and outside the state) than the other candidates. I saw him at the local

convention and was quite impressed with his "presence". I, however, have not heard

him speak as to what he will do as Senator, but then, anyone would be better than

Patty Murray! I also have not heard Didier or Mercer speak. I did hear Salazar

and liked him, but here again, Dino is well known, and had there not been the possible

"hanky panky" with the voting, he might have been our Governor right now!!!

185. No matter who wins the primary, he must be true to conservative principals (the

values of Ronald Reagan) without straying to the extreme right.  Also, the candidates

must not destroy each other in the primary and must fully back the winner.

186. Currently, Paul Akers would be my second choice because of his business experience.  I know

very little of the other candidates.

187. There are too many right now, but hopefully after the primary, Republicans will

be able to focus their efforts into one strong candidate to beat Murray in the November

election. very upset with Dino for waiting so long to enter the senate race, but still support

him due to his committment to conservatism and to the state of washington.

188. I believe Paul Akers is hands down the best candidate, in my humble opinion.  This

country is in peril and we need someone who can deliver results, someone who can

think outside the box, someone with impeccable integrity, and someone outside the

political machine.  Paul is all of those things.  Bye-bye incumbents, I can see

November from my house! 

189. I think that they are all good. But Sen. Murray is well entrenched, well connect

, and to the everyday voter has no big issues.  It will take someone of Dino Rossi

's stature and experience to contend.  He's also been well vetted and then some

i do not know enough about the candidates yet, but what i fear is splitting the

vote between good candidates.  I don't particularly appreciate Rossi's late entry

but his name recognition could make a difference in finally getting rid of a truly

abhorrent senator

190. Any One of them is a vast improvement over Murry.  Hopefully those not picked will

run for other offices in later elections.  "The War Against Progressivism" isn'

t over in Nov.'10, that'll just be the first battle of a long campaign.  Time to

start thinking/planning long term (Grand)Strategy.

191. good

192. I met with Mr Akers yesterday and was very impressed.  I have not had an opportunity

to follow up on Clint Didier and am not able to make a prediction.  I do believe

that Mr. Rossi would make a great Senator or Governor.  I was not impressed with

Mr. Rossi's campaign in the last Governor's race.  He seemed to not be committed

. It seemed as if he was talked into running and his efforts were less than enthusiastic

.  I am concerned his effort will be the same and will easily be defeated by Ms

Murray.  At this point in time, I believe we have great people to choose from. 

I need more information and contact from the candidates but am leaning toward Mr

. Akers.

193. Like Rossi don't know much about Akers or Didier but have heard of them and seen

signs

194. I like Paul Akers position on so many matters - immigration, fiscal responsibility

, character, less government, etc.  BUT, I do think that Dino Rossi has a stronger

chance of actually unseating Patti Murray, especially in the big urban area of

King Co/Seattle. Can a local like Paul Akers really reach across the whole state

to gather enough votes to overcome the huge financial support that Patti always

gathers - too many good men have tried the past 3-4 election cycles.  Unfortunately

, I am a little concerned that Dino isn't as strong on some of the critical national

issues that we MUST not put off any longer....immigration, securing the borders

- #1!  Dino is so great I feel like we can't miss a chance to get him into a position

to make Washington a real player in turning our country back to our Constitutional

limits on federalism - what to do? Please may I live to see Patti Murray sent packing

OUT of the Senate - she makes me ashamed of her socialism and thin veneer of "I

do it for the little people" spinning in her e-letters.

195. There are several excellent candidates in the primary. As long as Washington State republicans can unite behind the winner after the primary, I think we stand a great

chance of ousting Ms. Murray.

196. If they will run on the reall problems we face qnd leave the hate speech alone we

can win.  We need real change

197. Dino Rossi is not much  better than Patty Murray

198. I'm still deciding, but leaning toward Rossi.  I have heard he has the best chance

to win.  I like Akers and Didier too and do not know the rest.  I am concerned

that those of us who want to return to our Constitution may split the vote and defeat

the purpose.  

199. Represent!

200. Unsure, Rossi was defeated in the 2nd Governor race based on agreement with the

Bush administration, "Republicans got us in to this mess"  The folks on the West

side of this state seem to take this hook line and sinker.  I think Didier is a

likable candidate, but Palin's endorsement will hurt with moderate independents

.  Regardless, I think the GOP needs some logical ideas to sway people who think

, and would consider someone w/o Bush or Palin's endorsement.  It is understood

that Dino will fetch more $$, but I don't think he is likable enough. Prefer Didier

, but think Rossi has a better chance from a fundraising perspective.

201. I wish that Dino had stayed out of the race. I think that we need candidates who

are not professional politicians.

202. I think our strongest candidates before Dino entered the race was Paul Akers and

Clint Didier. However, I wasn't completely sold on either and so I am relieved

that Dino is running. Even after losing two gubintorial races, I think he still

has a great deal of positive name recognition with the people of WA state. He is

a solid candidate that I have full faith will work for the rights of the people

if elected.

203. Tell me...if Gregoire gets the upper position in August, then will Rossi have a

chance as Governor?  And, are Didier and Akers still in the race because they think

that Rossi will be Governor? Or, is Rob McKenna going to be Governor? Rossi lost

some votes just because he came in late.  We are all very confused about the money

we already spent on Didier and Akers and the money we may or may not yet spend

on Rossi. It is not good when our money fights against our money!!

204.  I'm afraid they will be RINO's after the election

205. Like Clint s speaking and his kick ass attitude, likepaul akers ability to reAch

the city folks on the job and business topic - I thinkthAt ISA winner for repubs

206.  . I know paul and know he is Reagan conservative.

207. They need to embrace a government that governs from the center whether they be democrat

or republican.

208. I think we have a wonderful group of qualified candidates!

209. The more Republican canidates that truly represent "We the People'

the better!!!

210. I favor anyone who can beat her. I like what I hear about Didier and I have

is sign in my yard. Rossi has greater name recognition I think but I am not a big pro

football fan. Rossi is more of a politician, would like to see something else,

but if he could do it, ok.  Could use her "cat ate the canary" picture at the health

care signing for me to cement against any vote for her. Republicans need to undo

all of the current administrations messes, though the list does grow.  God Bless

America and real Americans!

211. I'm not sure but think Doug Erickson has a pretty strong chance of winning.

212. Clint Didier & Don Benton were tops, Dino should not have waited this long to declare

...very sleazy and unapreciative of what the other candidates have put out from

the beginning...typical politician...just what we DON'T need.

213. I like the strength of character in Didier. I like Dino, I voted for him, for governor

, but I think he left it too late to enter the race.  Akers to has

a good background, We have some good candidates. I think Didier is the best candidate to go up against

Murray, at this time. I'm not confident that dino could beat murray.

214. We support Didier and Akers.  We feel that Dino's entry into the race should have

happened much sooner. We also feel that he is carrying around a lot of political

baggage.  We don't want someone whose been around that long.  We want someone fresh

who is a firm constitutional conservative and knows the 28 principles of freedom

.  We also want someone who won't have to depend on his senatorial income for his

sole livelihood. Dino is a good man but his time has passed. Entering now will

cause a greater split in the votes.  He should get to know the candidates and put

his support behind the one he feels will be the best man for the job.

215. Don't know enough about them.  I believe Dino is probably the only one who can beat

Patty.  Didier speaks for all of us pro life patriots

216. I think that Dino entering makes Republicans look like idiots.  The party needs

to support all candidates at this time.  Personally the only candidates I think

have a chance in this climate are Akers (minimally) and Didier (more of a chance.)

217. I met Paul Akers last night and was much impressed with him. There were 24 guests

in the room, none of which he had met before. He shook hands with each of us and

asked our name. 5 minutes later he called each of us by name! Now THAT takes some

memory! He is a local man, a self made millionaire with excellent ides of how to

balance the U.S. budget in 3 years. Now THAT is something! 

218. With exception to the johnny come lately dude - great candidates with exception

also to Don Benton. I could not answer #2 - another choice could have been - no

change whatsoever. 

219. I need to know what Rossi stands for. I am pro life and while I do not wish to have

a one issue candidate, I do believe for me this is a smell test as to other important

views the candidate may have. There is a connection between your view where life

comes from and what must be done to promote it in laws pertaining to true equality

, in being fair and just in relationship with the States, it affects our view in

Foreign Affairs, in how we conduct ourselves in office, in modeling conduct becoming

to rulers etc. My questions to all would be : what motivates you to seek public

office? What are the virtuous you have that will help you to become an effective

"office bearer?" Are you like Pilate who asked cynically "What is Truth" or do

you have a source that tells you what is what?

220. We speak in our Declaration of Independence

about The Laws of Nature and of Nature's God. What for you is the source of defending

Nature's Law? What would our 18th century forefathers mean with this phrase?

We also speak about virtuous free people, what in your opinion defines a virtuous

leader? These are some of the questions I would have before committing my vote to

a Candidate.

221. Republicans need to consolidate and really get behind one strong candidate that

will really serve the people and not just lip service to all.  The integrity of

the candidates need to start coming to the forefront...not the political agendas.

Unfortunately, it will take the election of several good candidates to start

and uphold a new trend of caring and honesty in government.  I know Paul Akers has

great knowledge and business experience and isn't muddy in the political system

yet.  A serious look into the hearts of the candidates is needed...our country

does not need more political bent leaders.  Both parties most often embarass themselves

in thinking about the good of the country first!   YES, I AM AN IDEALIST!  BUT

CHANGE HAS TO START SOMEWHERE!

222. Many good candidates. It is good that there is going to be some name recognition

after the primary for some of these people when it comes to ousting Maria Cantwell

and other Dems in future elections.

223. Too many are unknown, name recognition, experience means all the difference

I feel sorry for the other candidates who invested time and treasure while Rossi

sat back and waited to announce his intentions.  As a candidate I perfer Didier

but must acknowledge Rossi has a better chance at defeating Murray.

224. Other than Dino, basicallym, no names!

225. I believe Clint Didier is probably the best sincere Conservative candidate on the

list.  Saying that I don't believe he has yet enough name recognition throughout

the state to win.  Rossi is a bit of a RINO but certainly better than "Tennis Shoes

" and can probably win due to his popularity in the state.

226.Good broad mix of political and business experience

227. We have good conservatives. May the best one win.

228. Paul Akers is the man for the job.  He has solutions that are tried and is not afraid

to take on the establishment to implement them.  Rossi's lack luster announcement

left me totally unimpressed concerning his desire to change Washington DC, and

Didier is speaking out of both sides of his mouth ( farm subsidies.. if you can't trust someone on one issue it's likely he is not trustworthy on others).

229. While I have been impressed with Paul Akers'ads on talk radio, he is an unknown. 

Dino Rossi is a familiar name to all WA voters.  If he capitalizes on his fiscal

responsibility as well as his conservative values, he stands the best chance in

my view of beating Senator Murray.  I have seen Clint Didier signs but no nothing

about his positions.  I haven't heard of the other 3 candidates.

230. I think Paul Akers is a good speaker.  Was sorry that Didier did not attend the

GOP picnic as it was my only opportunity to meet him and hear him speak.  I like

Don Benton's stand against illegal immigration.  Sorry Dino Rossi came to the race

late.  But maybe his name recognition is a good thing against Murray.  Don't know

Sean Salazar or James Mercer.

231. I also liked Sean Salazar as he is part of the inner city Seattle/Tacoma culture

. I hope he will help Rossi.

232. Who ever it is that makes it to the general election need to be a peoples candidate

and not a mouthpiece and representative to special interest groups.  The unions

, tribes, have too much power.  Large corporate interests are being given preference

over the peoples interet.  Our representative are running for reelection from the

day they win a seat.

233. Dino is the only candidate with any name recognition.

 

234. The 11th Commandment needs to be in full effect!  Focus on defeating Murray and

not each other.  The sign of a good citizen and candidate who cares more about our

country than themself is how they exit the race.  Before Dino, no candidate captured

the attention of the voters and donors; that is a clear sign the support simply

isn't there for them.  It is time to clear the field for Dino and use the lessons

of this experience to build successful future campaigns.

235. I think that there are a lot of good candidates and feel that C.D. is most represenative

of my core values but with that being said I feel that either P.A. or D.R. are

more electable and would make a great canditate the others I don't know enough about

to make a judgement

236. I will personally support their campaign to beat Patty Murray.

237. They are all excellent.  We went to Lynden GOP candidate forum and were very impressed

with Akers, Didier and Salazar.  We have not heard Rossi Benton or Mercer.  Rossi

may have name recommendation and may be more apt to beat Murray.

238.  I like Dino Rossi. I think he has the experience and the ability to represent the

State of Washington in the Senate.

239. I've been a Didier fan since I first met him, but I would be proud to support Rossi

or Paul Akers if either ends up being the candidate.  The other 3 should drop out

.

240. Paul Akers is a conservative entrepreneur who know what it is like to take an idea

and make it practical - Clint Didier is my second choice - Dino Rossi will be a

spoiler and cannot beat Murry just like he could not beat Gregoire

241.  I believe that Dino does not help in the defeat of Patty Murray.  His entry has

not been timely - but more of a "last minute" decision that tells the

general public that he was not sincere in really stepping up and taking her out. A well planned

strategy would have played better, and his entry might drive frustrated Dems back

to her - just to spite him  

242. I probably don't know enough about most of the candidates above to give an informed

opinion.  I favor Rossi primarily because of his state-wide name recognition, an

essential, I think, to making any dent at all on Patty Murray's incumbancy.  Paul

Akers is the next most recognizable name on the list.

243. Clint Didier would be my choice but he probably could not win the Senate race. 

244. Well, the point is to win.  I have met Paul and like his business perspective.

But we have to be realistic-- Dino has the name recognition.  He can raise more $

and we just have to hope he is not too much of a rino.

245.Who are they?

246. Love them all

247. All Candidates seem good. I have mixed feelings and concerns on question #1 in that

Dino Rossi might not seem to be on fire to run. Name recognition is good, but I

think candidate Akers and Didier have been out there and seem hungry to go after

Murray.

248. They are all worthy and all superior to Patty Murray.  Dino Rossi has the best chance

of defeating her and representing the majority of the state.

249. Since Rossi lost in his other elections, we wonder if we should try someone new.

250. Dino Rossi is not a conservative Republican - he is moderate to liberal Republican

and has been introduced to the benefit of the Democratic Party in this season of

expected turnover.

251. I think one of them better win

252. All good

253. It looks like they are all going to fold except for Paul Akers.  I hope he continues

to run.  In the Primary I will cast my vote for Paul Akers but if in November our

candidate would be Dino Rossi I would vote for him.  I do believe that Dino represents

the same ol' politians that that are in office now.  He is also not been able to

win an electin against our current governor, what makes anyone think he can beat

Patty Murray?

254.I like Clint Didier, Paul Akers,Dino Rossi. I just feel that because

Dino lost twice for Gov., We need a fresh voice, and Clint and Paul

sound like what we need

.

255. Maybe we have a chance to win a senate seat now that the democrats have proven yet

again that they are the party of tax and spend. This time I hope we can exercise

some fiscal restraint. If we don't, I believe a third party will definitely become

viable.

256. There are some really great candidates. We need to spread them out between future

races for governor and Maria Cantwell's seat. 

257. I'd like to hear more from Dino about his ideas and commitment to conservative bedrock

for our Nation.

258. Eastern Washington sees Dino as a political insider and they are tired of him. They

want new fresh faces who do not tell the same speech everytime. They will not vote

this fall for Dino and Patty will win again by a landslide. 

259. We have great candidates. I feel that Clint Didier has the most fire in his belly

to further our conservatives values, and will stick to what he feels is right

Paul Akers' adds are very convincing as to what we need.  Rossi lost and I've not

heard much recently from him.  I could be persuaded differently, however.

260. I think Clint Didier is best suited to mobilize the Tea Party and the grassroots

.

261. Rossi is part and parcel of the Wash. State Republican "establishment" that has

'nt had their act together for many years. They need a real jolt and Clint Didier can give them that.   

in order to win, ie defeat Murray, they must support positive conservative principles

, and get support from most Tea Party folk  Except for Clint's time as a pro athlete, one wouldn't recognize him at all.  The

same goes for all the others...they are total unknowns to the public. None of them

get any major press time so by and large we'll never hear about them at all from

the media.  Dino has proven himself a winner against Gregoire, he can get the votes

(if you don't keep recounting until the other side wins)and I believe he could

beat Patty Murray if the state Republicans really get behind him.

It's early and I still don't know enough about most of these candidates. Dino Rossi

is old republican blood. I don't think he's able to carry the interest. Sort of

same-old, same-old. I'm sick of pols who see it all as business as usual. The dems

are Marxists and I don't see how they can ever come back. Every day more is revealed

on how far left they have swung. Clint Didier has been endorsed by Sarah Palin,

a huge plus for him because Palin at this time is seen as being free of the old

party lines and may very likely run for president in 2012. Small government, control

of the borders, no socialized healthcare, jobs, the importance of the individual

, we are not a collectivistic culture. A more conservative body politic with the

Constitution at the core. Respect for the citizens who pay the bills and know that

even a president is a public servant. I don't think there are enough repubs talking

about those values. Most of them are afraid. Clint Didier has spoken about these

values but he has not been tested so right now we have to take him at his word.

I don't know Rossi's platform but again, he feels like the old party line. He's

one of "them" and we are all so burned out on "them." New blood and repubs need

to be much more aggressive. Interestingly, it's the repub women, i.e., Jan Brewer

, Sarah Palin, Michelle Bachman who are the loud and proud ones. I can't believe

that Jan Brewer is not getting massive vocal support from repub candidates. I will

vote for a candidate who speaks of the values and is not worried about alienating

a particular group of people. Give me a candidate like Gov. Chris Christie in N

.J. and he/she has my vote in a New York minute. This is a huge election and the

repubs are not fighting hard enough. There can be no third party or we will just

have more dems. Allen West in Florida, I love him. Show me the anger at the Constitution

being trampled on. I want a candidate who is not afraid of being called names like

racist or birther. Who cares? We all know those are just scare tactics. Stand toe

to toe and don't back down. I want to see outrage at terrorists being tried in

civilian courts, being read their Miranda rights. I want to see outrage at the very

idea of a mosque being built across from the twin towers. Fight for this country

and all it has stood for, that's what I want in a candidate. I'm not seeing this

yet. These are not "issues" these are outrageous transgressions. Allowing Calderone

to stand on the floor of our Congress and tell us how horrible we are because Arizona

has moved to stem the tide of illegal immigration and then have Pelosi and company

give him a standing ovation? I want to hear absolute outrage for repub candidates

on such tactics. What am I hearing? ..... crickets. Oh, there's objection but sorry

, objection is not good enough. Outrage, nothing less than absolute outrage. I have

seen it from Allen West. I wish we had him in WA. Unfortunately, I don't know that

WA will ever elect a repub for anything.  Here in WA we need to find that strong

conservative candidate and he needs to be really vocal and we need to push it hard

. This is going to be an ugly race. I'm not an across the board conservative at

heart, in many ways I am a centrist but we need to yank that chain hard right because

these are not liberals in government. We are seeing a coup from inside the White

House. If we don't stop it now we won't stop it at all. I believe in the Constitution

. It is our moral compass. Oh, and I want someone who has actually held a job and

had to work for a living. No more of this Ivy League school junk. A person who

knows what it means to actually work for a living. Clint Didier also has that going

for him. 

262. I have only lived in Washington for 3 years but I still think the governor race

a few years back was stolen by the Dems.  I feel that Dino Rossi is the only chance

we have of defeating Patty Murray.

263. At this time I am not favoring any candidate and plan on attending the Tea Party

forums.

264. I am ignorant of the candidates except for Rossi. I can't say if he is the best

qualified but he is the most recognizable and if the vote were tomorrow I would

vote for Dino.

265. All all qualified which is very heartening. But, we need the individual who has

the best chance of beating Patty Murray to run for this important Senate seat.

I think they all have excellent values that I share, however I believe that Rossi

has the best chance at defeating Murray in a blue state such as ours.

I am acquainted with five of the candidates listed, and would be happy to have any

one of them as my senator.  Each one would bring a needed dimension of common sense

, experience, and knowledge to Congress.  I'd like to see all of them representing

us in some manner in Washington D.C.  Dino Rossi is my top choice because of his

experience as a legislator, because his name recognition and state-wide reputation

give him an advantage in defeating Patty Murray, and because I think he will make

an excellent U.S. Senator.  I hope the others will remeber there are more elections

coming up in 2012.  I think Paul Akers, or maybe Clint Didier, would make an excellent

governor because of their real-world business experience.  We also have another

important U.S. Senate race in 2012.  We need all of these good people in our government

.

266. I think that Dino, Clint Didier and Paul Akers should form a coalition, to defeat

Patty Murray. They are 3 great candidates and we shouldn't have to lose 2 good

candidates just because Dino has better name recognition around the state. We have

to defeat Patty, period! Who wouldn't like that team???

267. I am a democrat, turned

conservative and I need NO moderate candidates. I am done voting moderate. We need

NO liberal progressives sneaking in! If Dino gets moderate, I won't vote for him

either. Republicans will err, if they wax moderate. Be conservative and support

the US constitution. That means LESS big federal government and more support of

state and individual rights.

268. I will vote for the most fiscally conservative,

constitutionally-minded candidate, that any party has to offer. The middle ground

is no longer safe.

In conclusion, I feel badly for Didier and Akers. They are

both good men. Dino has kind of thrown a wrench in but I think he may have the

best chance to win. Then again, being a former dem, what do I know?

I think there are several good candidates but my husband & I will support the candidate

who can beat Patty Murray. Dino Rossi seems like the strongest one.

There are just too many.  I think Rossi hurt himself by waiting to declare.  I think

it is time for him to step aside - he has not won enough times.

At least two, Akers and Rossi, are superior candidates, the best in some years.

I want whoever can beat Patty Murray to run against her. I really like Paul Akers

. Wish Dino could be our governor,but that seat's unfortunately not yet up for grabs