The CT Publishing Editorial Board is proud to endorse Paul Harris for state Senate in Washington’s 17th Legislative District. With seven terms as our state representative, Paul has built a reputation as a pragmatic, solutions-driven leader who always prioritizes the needs of our community. His ability to work across the aisle and his thoughtful approach to policy making have earned respect from both sides of the political spectrum, leading to leadership roles and significant influence in Olympia. His extensive experience makes him the right candidate to represent our district in the state Senate.
A key issue Paul champions is energy choice, which is critical for families and businesses. He has strongly advocated protecting access to affordable, reliable energy sources — including natural gas. As Olympia Democrats pushed through a ban on natural gas, risking higher energy bills and creating burdens for working families, Paul stood firm against these policies. He understands that eliminating natural gas would lead to skyrocketing costs and threaten our energy security. Paul Harris is committed to pursuing sensible, balanced energy policies that protect consumers from extreme measures and keep energy affordable.
Education is another cornerstone of Paul’s public service. His decade-long tenure on the Evergreen School Board provided him with first-hand experience managing the challenges facing our schools. Paul understands the importance of addressing classroom needs and funding shortfalls. As a state senator, he will use this background to continue advocating for strong education policies, ensuring that every child has access to quality schooling.
Public safety is also a top priority for Paul Harris. Recent legislative actions in Olympia have led to rising crime and weakened the ability of law enforcement to protect our communities. Paul has been actively working to reverse these harmful policies, advocating for the tools law enforcement needs to keep our neighborhoods safe. His commitment to public safety will remain a guiding principle in his service as state senator.
Beyond his public career, Paul Harris embodies integrity and resilience. He and his wife have been married for more than 40 years, raising five children and enjoying the blessing of seven grandchildren. As a cancer survivor, Paul understands the challenges life can bring, and he has faced them with strength and determination — qualities that have also defined his approach to public service.
Paul Harris’s pragmatic vision and deep understanding of issues like energy, education and public safety make him the ideal choice to represent the 17th Legislative District in the state Senate. He has consistently stood for the values that matter most to our community — affordable energy, strong schools and safe neighborhoods. We encourage our readers to vote for Paul Harris, a proven leader who will continue to fight for the future and prosperity of our district.
