To the editor:

Many of us regard elections much the same as sports, cheering for our favorite team. Voters too have passion and, at times, stridency in whom they support.

Key difference: Elections have profound consequences.

Team loss will see another game. The same, however, does not hold true when we go to the ballot box. A cast vote will determine the direction and future of our communities, and country for generations to come.

“Liberal” philosophy tends to be tax more, spend more, redistribute wealth through engineering programs and grow government. “Conservative” philosophy leans toward taxing less, spending less more judiciously and giving a hand up rather than a handout.

Candidate Capt. James Olsen, 23rd Legislative District, threads that needle differently. His respect for voters is evident through his clarion call for real reform (organization/regulation/budget) to insure needy and helpless are ministered to. Capt. Olsen’s 30-year military service evidences steadfastness, resolve and intelligence. Like Republican vice president candidate Ryan,

Capt. Olsen is the reform candidate, not willing to go along to get along.

Underpinning politics is civility. It’s certainly something that our society needs a bit more of these days. In the end, root for your team and vote for the candidates you feel represent our communities’ and country’s best.

And while there might not be an “I” in team there are two in “politics.” They should stand for imagination and integrity.  Mark Twain once asserted, “You can’t depend on your eyes when your imagination is out of focus.” A broader approach just might reveal new insights and Capt. Olsen brings those qualities to the court.

JEFFREY M. SNELLER

Bainbridge Island