Ethical integrity is the No. 1 priority in selecting leadership. As a lifelong Democrat, I have looked to the character of candidates, and I endorse Art Coday (District 32 state representative, Position 1 candidate) because of his integrity. As a physician, he has applied the principle that doctors must “do no harm” and will bring that principle to the State House of Representatives.

As a teen, Art lost his father, and this caused great emotional and financial hardship for him and his family. Nevertheless, he excelled by graduating from Lakeside School, University of Washington (honors, magnum cum laude) and Harvard Medical School. During his school years, Art worked hard to pay his own way and help support his family. Now, Art Coday brings empathy to the disadvantaged and he brings zeal to the constitutionally mandated public school system. He will demand that the state provide the very best for our children and teachers.

Dr. Coday sees mainly Medicare and Medicaid patients, providing loving care to our most fragile and vulnerable citizens. He is a man of compassion and integrity that we can trust, and he brings a depth of understanding to the legislative debate that no other candidate has.

The PDC filings clearly show Art’s ability to manage money responsibly. Some people attempt to buy political power, but Art has proven that he will serve the general public, not special interests, with his scholarship and skills.

All members of the 32nd Legislative District will be well served by Art, including seniors, children, the poor, working people, businesses and new immigrants looking for opportunity. Art will do this with fairness for everyone, attention to detail, care in spending our tax dollars and concern for the environment.

I urge Democrats and Independents to join me on the team to elect Dr. Art Coday. He is the kind of leader we need.

La Nita Jordan Wacker, Shoreline