I’m Tim Sheldon, your Democratic senator from the 35th Legislative District. I have represented Mason County and parts of Thurston and Kitsap counties since 1991, making me the longest-serving member of the Legislature. I also am one of the last Democrats representing a rural district.

Our issues are different than those of urban areas, and we need to make sure our voice is heard. We understand, far better than those who live in urban areas, the potential impact of measures that would drive up the price of gasoline and heap new taxes on those who cannot afford them. We need to make sure working families have jobs and opportunities right here at home.

These are trying times, and the continuing COVID restrictions have made them more difficult. In 2021, with the public kept at a distance, the Legislature’s biggest challenge will be to resist the temptation to pass steep new taxes and ill-considered environmental legislation when the public has no chance to weigh in. Above all else, we need to play fair with the people.

What can we do to put the state on the right track? I hope you will share your ideas with me. We can do plenty of good if we put our minds to it, and we do it together. You can send me a quick note at the address below, or send me an email at Timothy.Sheldon@leg.wa.gov. Whether we’re at the office or working from home, we’re here for you.