I’m simply thrilled by state Rep. Drew Hansen’s resounding victory. I was proud and honored to endorse Drew and I predict that he will continue to win reelections for many years to come, especially if Mr. James M. Olsen continues to run as his opponent.

Much like the national Republican Party is regrouping after their loss of the presidency and control of the U.S. Senate, if the local GOP wishes to become competitive in future elections, they should reassess efforts to broaden their appeal and field candidates who could conceivably win.

It’s simple math.

Voter turnout is always higher during a presidential election, and that was certainly true this year. According to the Nov. 10 tally, while some 2,300 additional votes were cast for state representative position 2 as compared to 2010, Mr. Olsen managed to get 230 fewer votes than he did two years ago, dropping his overall percentage from 42.32 percent in 2010 to 40.12 percent in 2012.

Conversely, state Rep. Hansen earned about 2,700 more votes than then-Rep. Christine Rolfes did in her 2010 re-election, increasing the Democratic Party candidate’s percentage from 57.49 percent in 2010 to 59.67 percent in 2012.

If this was a business, this trend would be described as a declining market share, and such a failing product would likely be revamped, re-branded or removed from the market place.

Your call, Kitsap County Republican Party.

Clarence Moriwaki
Bainbridge Island