Amboy resident Thomas Schenk submitted this letter to the editor to highlight why voters in Washington’s 18th Legislative District, Position 2, should keep Rep. John Lee in office. Schenk argues that Lee’s track record shows a clear focus on protecting Southwest Washington families from wasteful spending, while challenger Deccan Letnich seems more interested in a political career than serving the district.
Lee’s record of fiscal responsibility
Since taking office, Rep. John Lee has consistently opposed proposals that would raise costs for taxpayers. He has been a vocal opponent of the costly tolling plan that would have placed a new fee on drivers using the I‑5 corridor. Lee also fought the inclusion of a light‑rail extension on the I‑5 Bridge Replacement Project, arguing that the added expense would burden residents without delivering proportional benefits.
These positions reflect Lee’s broader commitment to curbing state spending and safeguarding hard‑earned money for families, small businesses, and farms that rely on affordable transportation. Schenk notes that Lee’s advocacy is rooted in practical, local concerns rather than a desire for personal political advancement.
Letnich’s pattern of political hopping
In contrast, challenger Deccan Letnich has run for multiple offices in recent cycles. After an unsuccessful bid for the 18th District, Position 1 seat held by Rep. Stephanie McClintock in 2024, Letnich quickly shifted his focus to the Position 2 race in 2026. Schenk characterizes this as a “careerist” approach, suggesting Letnich is more interested in securing a permanent role in Olympia than addressing the district’s unique needs.
Critics point to Letnich’s repeated candidacies as evidence that he lacks a stable, grassroots connection to the community. Rather than building a localized movement, his campaign appears calculated to capture a state‑level paycheck, potentially at the expense of taxpayers.
Why the choice is clear for voters
For residents who prioritize fiscal prudence and local advocacy, Schenk argues that Rep. John Lee offers a proven record of standing up to wasteful projects. Lee’s opposition to tolls and light‑rail extensions aligns with the concerns of commuters, farmers, and small‑business owners who rely on affordable transportation corridors.
Letnich’s history of running for different seats raises questions about his long‑term commitment to the district. Voters are urged to consider whether they want a representative who has consistently defended their wallets, or a candidate whose primary focus appears to be personal political advancement.
Looking ahead to the 2026 election
The race is set for November 2026, and both candidates will continue to campaign across the district’s communities. Schenk encourages neighbors to attend town‑hall meetings, review each candidate’s voting record, and make an informed decision at the ballot box.
In a district where transportation costs directly affect daily life, the choice between a proven fiscal steward and a candidate with a revolving‑door campaign history is, as Schenk puts it, “clear.”
Original reporting: Clark County Today (Vancouver WA) — read the source article.
