Campaign ‘09 – the Good and the Bad

Election 2009 is history, and we won some really important races and issues, and lost some real heartbreakers. Whatcom County voted strongly with the state majority on both state-wide ballot measures, approving Referendum 71 by 53.5%, and defeating the Eyman anti-tax initiative, 1033, by over 55%. In rural Whatcom County, voters even approved new taxes to support the library system.

The races for the County Council and Port of Bellingham were not so clear cut.  They were more like split decisions.  Two of our endorsed candidates won - Ken Mann and Carl Weimer - and two lost - Dan McShane and Laurie Caskey-Schreiber. This means there is no longer a progressive majority on the county council.

The Party’s campaign organization made great strides this year, building on the technology and tools of the Obama campaign. We ran our own homegrown operation like pros, and even produced our very first TV ad, which aired on cable. We particularly want to acknowledge Campaign Committee chair Adam Day, Jason Heck, Lisa McShane, John McGarrity, and office manager Rebekah Lee for their vision and drive to get the job done.

We hope everyone will extend their thanks to the candidates who put their lives on hold for this crazy campaigning stuff. Hundreds of volunteers and contributors round out our team of winners.

Thanks to all!

Endorsed Candidates and Ballot Measures

✔ if our position or candidate prevailed, and final percent of vote