I was Republican leader on the House Capital Budget Committee when Rep. Hawkins was appointed assistant leader. The capital budget is critically important, supporting school facilities, public lands, parks and other “brick-and-mortar” investments. Final negotiations surrounding the capital budget often mean long and unusual working hours for the leader and assistant leader.

Unfortunately, Rep. Hawkins was “missing in action” many times during those negotiations. Even after we explained the importance of the negotiations, he seemed unable to grasp that his position obligated him to be at the table. I needed Rep. Hawkins to join with me, so there would be two of us pushing back against questionable spending. Instead, I often found myself outnumbered by the other side because he was a no-show. I simply could not count on him to be there and finally was forced to discuss the situation with House Republican leaders, who took the unusual step of removing him from that committee.  

The 12th District, which includes part of Grant County, has received first-class representation from Senator Parlette. The same cannot be said for Rep. Hawkins. Although I rarely support one candidate over another, and I believe Rep. Hawkins is a genuinely nice person, Jon Wyss would be a more effective senator for my neighbors in Grant County who reside in the 12th District.

Senator Judy Warnick

13th Legislative District

Moses Lake