Op Ed — More News — Joe Fain for Senate

Op Ed

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Voters deserve more information on campaign backers

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Voters deserve more information on campaign backers

Voters have the right to know who’s paying for a politician’s campaign. While campaign funders do not necessarily define a candidate or issue, we’ve seen throughout history how hidden campaign spending in other parts of the country has fueled a culture of corruption and self-dealing.

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Give young journalists protections from school censorship

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Give young journalists protections from school censorship

Given the recent controversies over the credibility of and respect for our free and independent press, there has never been a more important time to ensure our future journalists are trained in a culture where they are supported to independently and responsibly practice their craft.

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Let’s stand united, strong against acts of violence

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Let’s stand united, strong against acts of violence

“Acts of White supremacy by the KKK or by some domestic incarnation of Nazism are not quirky brands of minority beliefs that need protection. They are acts of violence that demand our unified condemnation.”

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Constitutional amendment a must for balancing state budget

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Constitutional amendment a must for balancing state budget

Budgeting requires difficult decisions and a commitment to governing. In 2012, a bipartisan coalition of senators instituted an important fiscal reform: the four-year balanced-budget law. Washington is the first state with this check on budget gimmicks, our greatest defense against self-inflicted financial chaos.

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Improving the odds for young people leaving foster care

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Improving the odds for young people leaving foster care

Transitioning into adulthood can be a daunting experience... Think about how difficult this transition would be if the home or homes you grew up in were no longer an option and you couldn’t turn to your parents for guidance or financial help.

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Finding a solution to street gangs

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Finding a solution to street gangs

Criminal street gangs are a serious burden in Central and South King County. Gang violence is not a new phenomenon and needs to be addressed. The most fertile ground for the spread of gangs is the hearts and minds of our youth. At a young age, our most vulnerable children are making decisions that could lead them to a lifetime of violence and criminal behavior. In order to address the problem, we must look to prevention and early interventions.

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Effecting change from the inside

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Effecting change from the inside

Washington has a part-time, citizen Legislature. This means lawmakers gather in Olympia anywhere from two to four months per year to debate policy and vote on changes to state law. However, the job is anything but part-time; lawmakers spend the full year working with constituents, researching potential legislation and, for many, also working their day jobs.