The Times endorses
Dave Ross for Congress

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Democrat Dave Ross' moderation and his broad sophistication on wider world issues makes him the better candidate for the 8th Congressional District.

He is also a better fit for the values of the 8th, which is becoming a swing district for good reason. The demographic shifts in maturing Eastside cities make the district less reliably Republican than it has been historically. U.S. Rep. Jennifer Dunn, who is retiring, endorses Republican Sheriff Dave Reichert to succeed her, yet he is far more conservative than she. That isn't so important in a sheriff, a job that Reichert does admirably, but it is incredibly so for a member of Congress representing such a moderate district.

Ross, a former radio talk-show host, has spent 17 years discussing domestic and foreign policy and broadcasting from many hot spots in the world, including Iraq and Jerusalem.

Ross opposes the war, drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and individually managed Social Security accounts. He supports expansion of embryonic stem-cell research, limitations on assault weapons and a woman's right to choose.

Reichert differs with him on every point.

The test for Democrat Ross will be whether he can translate his smart, pithy sensibilities into results in a Republican-controlled Congress with people who have more at stake than a desire to be entertained. Ross' health-care plan, published on his Web site, is laudable but improbable, given the realities of federal budget strife.

Sheriff Reichert is a tremendous public servant with proven leadership. But Ross' command of the issues facing Congress gives him the edge.

The Times endorses Dave Ross for the 8th Congressional District seat.