Fred the Switcher

Several people have asked me what I think about the decision by our state representative, Fred Jarrett to switch to the Democratic Party.  The problem is, I have nothing original to say.  Most of us really like Fred and think he's a reasonable and responsible guy, so I assume his decision to switch sides was neither a betrayal of all that is good, nor a vindication of the cause of truth.  As a moderate Republican, he had the advantage of being the swing (and thus influential) vote on controversial issues, something he'll lose by being "just another Democrat" in a homogenous legislature.  He's a smart guy, so I guess he just figured that all-in-all he's better off with earlier access to the closed-door inter-party discussions than he did by being the first guy that all sides rush to when they want something approved.

Is there more to say?  Let me know in the comments.

But what I really think is that this shows another reason I wish Mercer Island had its own online network of blogs where we have discussions like this in public.  I shouldn't be the only person on the Island who posts publicly about local issues.  Many of you are emailing your friends with your opinions, or posting to private Listservs and closed discussion groups.  What a waste!  Say what you think in a way that will make your thoughts discoverable by other people who can join you.

Incidentally, I'm holding a series of brainstorming sessions next week with people who have contacted me about starting a Mercer Island online network.  Let me know if you're interested in joining.