Tri-Cities will miss Sen. Boehnke's leadership in the statehouse

With Sen. Matt Boehnke's upcoming departure from the Washington State Senate, the Tri-Cities is losing more than a state senator; we are losing one of the Legislature's finest public servants. First on the Kennewick City Council, later in the House of Representatives, and now for four years in the Senate, Boehnke has represented our community with uncommon professionalism, steady leadership and genuine statesmanship. In an era when politics too often rewards volume over substance, Matt earned respect by putting in the hard work – mastering complex policy, building relationships on both sides of the aisle and focusing on results rather than headlines. On issues ranging from energy and advanced manufacturing to technology and workforce development, he consistently demonstrated the kind of thoughtful, solutions-oriented leadership that both the Tri-Cities and our state deserve. His steadfast commitment to strengthening Washington's long-term competitiveness, coupled with his humility and integrity, should serve as a model for current and future public servants. His departure is a loss not only for the 8th Legislative District, but for the Legislature as an institution. Sen. Boehnke has served our community with distinction, and he deserves our gratitude for his years of public service. Sean O'Brien, Kennewick Since Amanda McKinney has been avoiding communication with voters, we have to form our opinions from the information that is available. It's reported that her campaign has gotten lots of money from wealthy, anonymous donors. Her website doesn't say much, but she likes AI/data centers and crypto, and she has no problem with Trump's immigration enforcement policies that many Americans feel are cruel and economically dumb. She's silent on Trump's war and tariffs and inflation and on the gutting of Medicaid and food stamps. Silence implies either agreement or fear of disagreeing. Whichever it is doesn't matter as far as the effect on her performance if she is elected. She's on the conservative side of all the culture war issues of course. She wants voters to elect her to protect them from supposed liberal extremism even as they actually suffer under Trumpian extremism. If she feels any of this is unfair or false, she can always speak up. Lots of people are very interested to hear from her. John Duresky is an open book on these issues. Voters can contrast the online presence and the public access of the two candidates for themselves. John only takes small dollar donations. Greg Carl, Richland I've known Richard Schram for nearly 20 years, both personally and professionally. On a personal level, I know Schram to be kind, caring and willing to go the extra mile to help a friend in need. These characteristics carry over to his professional side. He understands that good law enforcement is more than 'bustin' heads.' It takes compassion and a genuine caring for people who may be facing some of the hardest times of their lives. Being the sheriff is an even bigger role. There's an administrative and leadership aspect that's just as important to know. That's where Schram's background and experience sets him apart. Being part of the team for 23 years, serving under three sheriff's, working his way up through the ranks with constant and continual training, becoming part of the command staff, setting budgets, working with county leaders, overseeing the training of the deputies to make sure Walla Walla County has the best Sheriff's Office possible. It's part of the job not many understand, but Schram does, because he does it every day. That's why I endorse and support Schram for sheriff for Walla Walla County. I ask for your support, as well. Wayne Langford, Burbank I am proudly offering my endorsement to Richard Schram for Walla Walla County sheriff. One thing that has always stood out to me is how much he genuinely cares about both this community and the people who work here. He understands that if we take care of our deputies, they'll be better equipped to take care of the people we serve. He's made it a priority to support new deputies from the academy through field training, making sure they have the guidance and encouragement they need to be successful. He invests his time in them because he wants them to become the best deputies they can be for our community. This creates a culture where people know they're supported, and I believe that carries over into the way we serve our community. Schram is as professional as it gets, and he embraces the core values of our office in everything he does. He always puts the people of Walla Walla County first and will continue to do so in his new role as sheriff. Caden Kaelber, Pasco, Patrol deputy, Walla Walla County Sept. is month to end Tri-Cities suicides A simple conversation can make a difference. Take a moment to check in with someone you care about, listen without judgment and remind them that they don't have to face difficult moments alone. Recognizing warning signs, building strong support systems and connecting people with mental health resources can help create a community of hope, compassion and resilience. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available: Call, text or chat the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support. Call the Support and Advocacy Resource Center at 509-374-5391 for support, advocacy and connections to community resources.