Candidate’s local ties solid

Wed., June 23, 2010

The Spokesman-Review

Don Barbieri recently wrote a letter stating that state Senate candidate Michael Baumgartner just moved to Spokane from Florida. I know for a fact this is not true.

Michael has long ties to Spokane and I’ve known him for years – I went to Gonzaga Prep with him in the early 1990s and have stayed in close contact since. In fact, I remember that Barbieri’s own nephew played on the same offensive line of the Prep freshman football team with Michael in 1991.

It’s unfortunate to see facts distorted for political gain. Mike Baumgartner is a terrific guy who will make a great state senator. The fact that he left his business career to go and help in Iraq and Afghanistan speaks volumes about him and his values.

Mike should be welcomed home warmly, not with mudslinging.

Tina Valentine

Spokane

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