Gov. Inslee praises former Gov. John Spellman for his legacy and ‘civility in politics’

Published 1:30 pm Tuesday, January 16, 2018

OLYMPIA – Former Washington Gov. John D. Spellman was “unafraid to do the right thing,” Gov. Jay Inslee said after Spellman’s family announced his passing on Monday at the age of 91.

Inslee issued the following statement Tuesday:

“Gov. John Spellman was one of the nicest people in public life I’ve ever met. Trudi and I send our deepest condolences to the Spellman family, many of whom we had the chance to get to know over the last few years,” Inslee said.

“John took office during a time of great economic uncertainty, and he laid the groundwork for our ongoing effort to protect Puget Sound from oil spills and preserve the natural beauty of our state. During his time as King County executive, he was instrumental in bringing professional baseball and football to Seattle.

“He was a great example of an office holder unafraid to do the right thing, leaving a legacy of bipartisanship and civility in politics, despite the electoral consequences.

“Trudi and I will miss John, and I encourage all Washingtonians to keep him and his family in their thoughts.”