Over the past two weeks in the 5th Legislative District, prominent Democrats and Republicans alike have called for an investigation of the questionable arrangement between Gov. Chris Gregoire, former Sen. Cheryl Pflug, and Mark Mullet.

For years we have worked and lived in the district. We are mothers, business people, volunteer leaders and voters. We participate in the electoral process, and we teach our children to do the same. Until now, this district has had the benefit of solid representation in Olympia. Now, this equilibrium is threatened by ill-conceived and unwanted political shenanigans. All of our representatives in the legislature serve publicly with the consent and approval of the voters. In exchange for this public trust, we look for them to follow strict ethical guidelines that uphold both the letter and spirit of the law.

Mark Mullet has refused to distance himself from former Sen. Pflug’s resignation and appointment, even as potential Senate colleagues from both parties call this arrangement into question. He has continued to use the former Senator in his television commercials. We are concerned that he does not comprehend the seriousness of the allegations and that he has taken them too lightly. Our leaders must fight both the appearance and existence of corruption. In this, we believe Mr. Mullet has shown he is not up to the task.

Mark Mullet was questioned about his knowledge of the bribe at the Snoqualmie Valley Chamber of Commerce Candidate Forum. His answer was meandering and at one point he even laughed at the claim. We are left to conclude that he is either naïve about the politics of the state, or that he is ambivalent about corruption. In another opportunity to respond to the allegations on a blog, Mr. Mullet chose to attack his opponent rather than attempt to inform the voters with a credible answer.

True leaders honestly address tough issues and shed light on murky dealings. It seems that Mr. Mullet is content to let this matter remain clouded with the hopes that he can still win an election. So, after considerable thought and discernment, we have reluctantly reached the conclusion that Mark Mullet does not deserve to serve us in the state Senate. We urge your vote for Brad Toft.

Erin McCallum

North Bend

Lee Keller

Carnation