I strongly believe our Nation and the individual States have survived and thrived as a result of key foundational principles of governing that were outlined by our Founding Fathers nearly 240 years ago.

Article 1, Sec. 1 of Washington’s Constitution, ratified in 1889, lays it out clearly, “All political power is inherent in the people, and governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed, and are established to protect and maintain individual rights.”

Lest any elected or appointed official forget the source of their power, Article II, Sec. 1 should leave no doubt in his/her mind. “. . .the people reserve to themselves the power to propose bills, laws, and to enact or reject the same . . .”.

As Sammamish citizens begin to evaluate the candidates for November’s City Council elections, I’m reminded that with every right, comes responsibility. Successful government does not happen without involved citizens and elected officials who understand their role is not to be an autocratic source of power, but to be a representative for all the citizens. An example are the positions taken pro or con by seated Council Members on the recent Initiative/Referendum Advisory Vote.

I look forward to supporting candidates who are willing to listen to and work together with Sammamish’s citizens, staff and other elected officials. I want my representatives to respect the laws of the City by applying them to each of us equally and without bias or exceptions. Finally, I want to know that these candidates are committed to decisions based on truth, even if it doesn’t support their desired outcome.

My observation of Ramiro Valderrama as a City Councilman over the past 4 years is that he meets my criteria. I look for forward to evaluating candidates for the other positions through the same ‘lens’.

-Mary Jo Kahler , Sammamish