Platform similarities between candidates for the state Representative in the 23rd District, Pos.1 outweigh the differences as far as Sherry Appleton (D) and Frank Mahaffay (R) are concerned but the latter are still noteworthy. Members of the Herald Citizen Advisory Board agreed that this was one of the tougher races to decide on as there is no incumbent seeking the position.

Listening skills seemed to tip the board’s scale toward Mahaffay. Members were pretty adamant on this, in fact, and the idea that the young Realtor would work better with Rep. Bev Woods, if she is re-elected to Post. 2.

The two candidates agree on the need for more jobs, improved transportation and education. Despite concerns that Mahaffay might “get lost in the shuffle,” the majority of the board agreed that his go-getter attitude would keep him from getting mired in the Olympia mudflats.

They also agreed that he will seek a balance between the environment and affordable housing solutions for the 23rd District. To this end and as a Realtor, Mahaffay has been a staunch advocate for green built housing.

Appleton was turned down by her neighbors during the 2001 run for Mayor of Poulsbo in the primary and while she was endorsed by the Herald to unseat Bev Woods, that local loss to now-Councilman Mike Regis shouldn’t be entirely overlooked, the board pointed out.

Even so, Appleton’s experience in Olympia is extensive and her increasing political contributions and connections there and on the home front would likely serve Kitsap well.

This race is close, but Mahaffay gets our nod.