In two county offices up for election in November, we can make short shrift of the analysis. For Island County Clerk, Debra Van Pelt is clearly the best qualified. As deputy clerk for the past five years she is thoroughly knowledgeable of the position, which is critical to a functioning judicial system. Her opponent, Carol Ann Fortune has no applicable experience for the job and campaigns very little, using such trite slogans as “I love our country and our freedoms.” True, no doubt, but that doesn’t qualify her for an elective position.

The job of the county clerk is to serve the courts and the public in an efficient, thorough and cost-effective manner. There is no doubt that Van Pelt is up to the job, and that Carol Anne Fortune is not.

The position of Island County Treasurer is similar. Carol Ann Fortune’s husband, Shane Fortune, is running against the vastly more qualified Ana Maria Nunez, who has five years’ experience as second-in-command in the office and thoroughly understands its duties and responsibilities. Her opponent, Shane Fortune, is campaigning for “tax cuts,” along with freedom and happiness. Unfortunately, the county treasurer has nothing to do with any of these. The job is to keep track of the county’s money and that of myriad minor taxing districts, get the bills out on time, and numerous other important functions. Nunez will see that this will happen.

Van Pelt and Nunez are Democrats, but they also enjoy the support of Republicans who favor good government. The Island County Republican Party refused to endorse either of the Fortunes for office. Good for them. Let’s hope the voters are listening.