Snohomish County Council | Sullivan in District 2

Two excellent candidates in the Democratic primary for the District 2 seat on the Snohomish County Council make for a delightfully difficult choice. Few races are as rich in talent and experience.

The breadth of state Rep. Brian Sullivan's civic résumé gives him the edge over state Sen. Jean Berkey. Both candidates have deep roots in their communities and distinguished records of public service. District 2 includes the cities of Mukilteo and Everett and runs east-west from Interstate 5 to the Sound. Sullivan represents the 21st Legislative District, and is a former Mukilteo city councilman and mayor. Berkey has served in the House and now the Senate from the 38th Legislative District, which includes Everett.

Both Sullivan and Berkey, seeking to replace Kirke Sievers, who is out because of term limits, have a steady political temperament to help ease the curious tension between the Democratic majority on the County Council and County Executive Aaron Reardon, also a Democrat.

On big issues of transportation and land-use management, differences between the two candidates are not apparent. The advantage that accrues to Sullivan is work as an elected official at the local level. Experience at City Hall and in Olympia are excellent preparation for the range of topics in a growing county.

The winner will face Republican William Cooper in November.

For the Democratic primary, The Times endorses Brian Sullivan.