Woodward is the kind of senator we need to keep

I am 72 years old and have lived in Bonner County all my life. I have watched a lot of politicians come and go and I know the difference between a public servant and a self-promoter.

I have been a Jim Woodward supporter since he first ran. When I saw the claims in Herndon’s fundraising letter, postmarked from Virginia, I will be honest — it gave me pause. That is not the Jim Woodward I know. So I did what most people apparently do not do anymore. I picked up the phone and called Jim.

Jim picked up and we talked through the claims in the letter. He walked me through Herndon’s claims and set the record straight. He was calm and direct and did not raise his voice. He just explained the facts and let me draw my own conclusions.

That conversation told me everything I needed to know — not just about the claims, but about the character of the man I have been supporting.

A few days later the “Official Republican Voter Guide” arrived in my mailbox. I read it cover to cover. Then I used it to start a bonfire. It served its highest purpose.

I have seen four Woodward vs. Herndon campaigns now. Herndon’s tactics do not change. Jim Woodward does not change — steady, honest, and willing to pick up the phone when a 72-year-old constituent has a question.

That is the kind of senator North Idaho deserves to keep.

Vote May 19.

PAT GUNTER

Sagle