Of all the local candidates we have to choose from in November, there is one who stands out for tenacity and sincerity in spite of the abuse he’s received from some and the silence from those who know better and have yet to speak out in his behalf.

I am referring to Captain James Olsen.

I’ve been acquainted with him for about five years now due to our mutual concern over the serious issues we all face. I have found him to be one of the most honest, forthright people I’ve met in years. He often causes people to be taken aback as he doesn’t gloss anything over, but speaks from the heart and is well informed.

James is a prudent individual who makes use of what is available before spending to unnecessarily replace something still of value. We could do well to have him in Olympia helping make wiser choices with our taxes than what we have suffered over these many years of excessive spending.

James Olsen has been maligned repeatedly in the comments sections of our opinion pages, as if it were a source of entertainment to verbally abuse him. He remains steadfast, never caving to intimidation.

I also know he is willing to hear differing views as he has heard me out on occasions and been willing to modify his views when appropriate.  Principled politics before personalities matter. I am voting for James Olsen.  Please consider the needed benefits of having his unsparing honesty representing us in Olympia.

Colleen Smith
Kingston