Jeanette Longan for Steve Brandli

To the editor and fellow Islanders

I am writing this letter in support of Steve Brandli for District Court Judge.

After 19 years prior legal experience, I moved here in 2005 to take the position of Chief Criminal Clerk of the District Court and in 2011 took a Deputy Clerk position in the Superior Court Clerk’s Office. I have known Mr. Brandli and his family since 2006 when he was hired as the Deputy Prosecutor for the District Court. I have had weekly contact with Mr. Brandli through the years and have found that he has the experience and utmost respect for the Court and the public whether you are a defendant or plaintiff, an attorney or a visitor to the courtroom. He has the experience and perspective of a Prosecutor, a Public Defender and as an attorney all with the same goal of protecting the rights of the people.

Mr. Brandli and his wife are very family oriented and have deeply rooted themselves in the community. They have put in numerous hours volunteering and helping with community events They have opened their home and hearts to foster children, some of them with special needs. They have raised their children here.

With my experience I know first hand that District Court is not just about trials and criminals. There are many other layers of the law that the District Court Judge needs to consider such as protection/harassment orders, civil and small claims, traffic violations, name changes, fish and wildlife violations, felony law, etc.

Do the citizens of San Juan County want to have someone sitting in judgment of individuals with only the tunnel vision of experience they received as a prosecutor which in turn might create bias and conflict? I would hope not.

Steve Brandli is the only clear choice for District Court Judge based upon experience, qualifications, integrity, compassion, and dedicated service to San Juan County for the past 12 years.

Please join me in voting for Steve Brandli for District Court Judge.

Jeanette Longan
Friday Harbor