OLYMPIA, Wash. – For most people, the Fourth of July is a day off. For candidates for public office, it’s an opportunity to connect with voters with democracy on their minds. Washington’s gubernatorial candidates made their way to Independence Day celebrations to do just that.
Attorney General Bob Ferguson’s campaign (D) brought a crowd of volunteers to Edmonds and Burien Thursday afternoon. In a social media post, he framed the day as an opportunity to strengthen Democratic norms.
“Team Ferguson is fired up this Independence Day to defend democracy. We will work together to protect the basic rights that fulfill the great promise of America — including the freedom of choice, freedom from discrimination, and the freedom to marry,” Ferguson said.
Former US Congressman Dave Reichert (R) wore an American flag shirt and spoke with voters in Edmonds and Tacoma.
Reichert posted a video to social media featuring a small business owner he met during Fourth of July celebrations in Tacoma who says he is relocating his business due to crime. The candidate used the moment to highlight his own public safety platform.
“Like so many in Washington, Robert is relocating his business due to crime. The American dream is still possible, we just need new leadership to right the ship,” Reichert said.
While it may seem like a day for barbeques and parties for many voters, the Fourth of July marks the beginning of a pressure cooker month for Washington political campaigns ahead of the Aug. 6 primaries.
