Ada County Commission Endorsement

Sometimes, we’re left with little information on which we can base an endorsement. The race for Ada County Commission is not much of an idealogical race, and I’m certain each candidate would claim conservatism.

Sharon Ullman ran as a third party candidate last time, which gave the Democrats the margin of victory. Ullman received 15% of the vote, to 43% for Democrat Paul Woods and 42% for Republican Steve Kimball. Woods received just 2/10% less of the vote than fellow Democrat Al Ames did against Commissioner Fred Tillman, indicating that the vast majority of Ullman’s vote came from Kimball. Given the closeness of the margin, it’s safe to say that Ullman’s Independent Candidacy handed the Democrats the County Commissioner seat. Sorry, but this Republican won’t forget and won’t vote to reward Ullman with a GOP nomination. In addition, the whole 2006 campaign raises questions about her ability to work with others, which will be a key weapon for Commissioner Wood in the Fall.

Jay Larsen seems like a great guy, but unfortunately he hasn’t impressed me as ready for the County Commission the one time I met him. He is a conservative, no doubt, but not the right candidate for this time.

My endorsement goes with with Steve Kimball. Kimball brings three qualities that I think are fundamental to winning a campaign and being an effective commissioner:

1) Hard Worker/Hard Campaigner

I saw many Republicans try and coast in 2006. Not Steve Kimball. The man was a dynamo of energy. He took nothing for granted and worked hard. I saw no candidate for office more often than Steve Kimball. Such energy and enthusiasm is what’s going to be needed to defeat Commissioner Wood.

2) Man of the People:

Steve Kimball is a plain spoken man of the people. His ability to connect with voters will be key. In 2008, I don’t feel that it will be enough in Ada County to have an (R) after your name. You have to connect with people, explain your values, and show them you’re willing to look after their interest. Of all the candidates, Kimball can best do this.

3) Servant’s Heart:

Kimball has a really passion for serving the people. He is one of those blessed few that really seems to understand that government ought to be the servant of the people, not their master.

I believe that as the Republican nominee, Steve Kimball can best win in the fall. As our next County Commissioner, he’ll be able to meet the challenges of the job with the best temperament. He’ll get my vote on May 27th.