Rick Hughes embodies competence, character, and caring — the very reasons I am casting my vote for him.

Our county stands at a crucial juncture, and Rick’s experience with local and state government is indispensable. Rick not only comprehends the unique challenges facing his home island of Orcas but also has a deep understanding of the complex issues on San Juan Island, Lopez, and Shaw—surpassing any other candidate.

Rick’s leadership and dedication have earned him endorsements from respected officials, including State Senators Liz Lovelett and Manka Dhingra, District 2 Congressman Rick Larsen, State Representatives Debra Lekanoff, Joe Timmons, and Alex Ramel, and Hilary Franz, Washington State Public Land Commissioner. This strong support underscores the trust our state representatives place in Rick to address the critical work ahead for our county.

I wholeheartedly support Rick Hughes and actively participate in his campaign because I believe he is the right leader for the challenges we face. Rick’s commitment to learning from Cindy Wolf’s campaign and his dedication to environmental initiatives, such as those led by the San Juan County Conservation Land Bank and The Friends of the San Juans, reassures me that he will work tirelessly to preserve the beauty and integrity of our islands for future generations.

Rick has consistently supported nonprofit endeavors, cherished cultural festivals, and provided invaluable assistance to our community during crises. His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he administered over 5,000 vaccines, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service.

I hope you’ll join me in voting for Rick Hughes for County Council. Let’s ensure a brighter future for our community with a leader who truly cares.

Sam Gailey

Orcas Island