Editor,

There are a lot of unknowns this election year. Whether you support Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton or an independent, this is one of the most unpredictable presidential election years that I can remember. If you feel like I do, it’s almost like we’re living in a sitcom and the writers keep pulling new ideas out of a hat to see how crazy they can make 2016.

Barbara Bailey, a personal friend of mine, is running for reelection as senator for the 10th District. She truly cares for the residents of Island, Skagit and Snohomish counties. And caring for people seems to be rare these days in politics.

Barbara deserves to be reelected. She’s been a faithful representative in Olympia during her 10 years in the state House and four years in the state Senate. We need those in our government who are of good character. People who stand for truth. Those not motivated by power and personal gain.

Barbara believes in standing up for the truth, which is admirable. She doesn’t need to run a campaign based on trying to harm the character of her opponents by saying things that are not true. This year it’s so easy to get caught up in the mudslinging, the lying and the dirty politics.

Voters have difficulty knowing who to vote for when they can’t know the candidates personally. Barbara lives in Oak Harbor. Please get to know her and what she represents before election day.

She’s improved our higher education system, worked to support better care for our elderly, helped our veterans and never stopped to rest.

She is a kind, humble and gracious person who truly listens.

Rhonda Burgess

Oak Harbor