Lewis County elections have been decided and a few changes are taking place. We have a new legislator for the 20th district and two new county commissioners to assist Lewis County as they continue to grow.
First, Peter Abbarno won his legislative seat in the 20th District easily with a landslide victory of 72.64%. Abbarno is an attorney in Centralia with Althauser, Rayan and Abbarno, LLP, and now he represents the people in Olympia. He stated, "I appreciate all the support from my family, friends, community and voters throughout the 20th district and beyond. The state is facing some serious issues that need real solutions. I will work hard and represent the values of SW Washington every step of the way to make sure our students, families and small businesses don't get left behind."
The other legislator to win was Ed Orcutt, his victory was 73%. Orcutt has been a legislator with the 20th District since 2003. This win will put him over 20 years in office.
Another solid victory in Lewis County went to Dr. Lindsey Pollock. She won against incumbent Bobby Jackson by a landslide, 60.06% to Jackson's 38.06%. This is Pollock's first run at public office, she had planned on running as a freeholder but that was changed by the county. She stated, "What I hope this election means is that the people of Lewis County are focused on the future. From now on we need to be seen as a welcoming county, with the government staying in its lane letting people rise as high as their skills and willingness to work will take them. For the first time in decades, our county can become competitive in attracting employers, workers, and investors. Safety, low taxes, reasonable regulation, and excellent education will open the door to decades of success. Getting elected was the easy part, now comes the heavy lifting."
The other victory for Lewis County Commissioner went to Sean Swope, who beat out incumbent Edna Fund 54%-43%. Swope is also new to politics, his background is marketing and youth ministry. Swope was employed by Twin Transit but now he hopes to bring managed growth to Lewis County, he stated, "Thank you to the Lewis County voters for giving me the opportunity to serve you the citizens. I want the citizens to feel heard and more importantly, responded to. It's easy to listen, but the goal should be to act on their request. My door will be open to everyone. Also, it's time Lewis County stops looking in the mirror and starts looking through the window to what's ahead of us and to one another. I am looking forward to representing each and every person. We are stronger together."
The Governor's race was won easily by Governor Inslee against challenger Loren Culp. Lt. Governor will be Denny Heck, Attorney General is Bob Ferguson, Secretary of State is Kim Wyman, many of the state races candidates remained the same.
Lewis County is poised for change with two new county commissioners and a new legislator. The future is bright for the 20th District.