The next two years are critical to the future of Mercer Island.

The state’s top issues of regional transportation and educational funding are also the top issues of most Mercer Islanders. The solutions found in Olympia will affect all of us. We need strong voices in Olympia who effectively represent our interests and who take the “long view,” finding solutions that balance the interests of Islanders and the region, alike.

Rep. Judy Clibborn’s collaborative approach through the years and strong relationships with elected officials and transportation leaders in Olympia and Washington, D.C. are needed now more than ever to maintain our traffic mobility and access to I-90.

Rep. Tana Senn has demonstrated her passion for the state’s children and for working women and families by actively sponsoring legislation to their benefit and has worked across the aisle to see it passed.

Both have shown that they are passionate about supporting working solutions to funding education. That is why the Reporter supports the return of Judy Clibborn and Tana Senn to our state Legislature.

Contact the Mercer Island Reporter Editorial Board at editorialboard@mi-reporter.com.

Editor’s Note: The Reporter also recently endorsed Sen. Steve Litzow for the Senate seat. This week, the Reporter will announce its position on the $54 billion measure Sound Transit 3.