Use your words

Marcia Kelbon asks, “can Governor Ferguson truly be a moderate?” apparently inviting a discussion about streamlining government spending and cutting new construction regulations. Kelbon has penned opinion pieces in the past addressing the housing crisis and drug addiction in the unhoused community. These issues are worth discussing and obviously merit problem solving. However, I’m compelled to take issue with Kelbon’s coded phrases clearly used to provoke. I particularly take issue to the suggestion that Washington State and Jefferson County implement “DOGE-like” actions. I understand Kelbon to be an accomplished professional, and versed in political rhetoric, i.e., knows exactly how such phrasing will land. Elon Musk appears to be using the department of government efficiency (DOGE) to cut spending that, he, as among the wealthiest, deems unnecessary. This includes government agencies, grants, and programs designed to protect and enhance the lives of all Americans. Musk ices the cake by bragging about his senseless actions on social media. Ms. Kelbon, if you are sincerely inviting discussion on issues most of us agree need thoughtful problem solving, please refrain from peppering your columns with language meant to provoke. Otherwise, your comments will be read with much skepticism in this household.

Ellen Sisk

Port Townsend