I’m not one to typically make Op/Ed contributions, but in the case of this year’s election, I can’t sit silently by and watch Sen. Andy Hill be attacked with false accusations. I’ve known Andy Hill for more than 10 years. As the parent of two children and a Redmond business owner, I’ve seen firsthand how Andy has worked tirelessly for the betterment of our schools and our community.

His opponent has accused Andy of not prioritizing education. The truth is, Andy Hill has done more to fund education during his first term as State Senator than the entire Washington State Legislature has done in the last 30 years.

As the Chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee, Andy wrote and passed a bipartisan budget that put $1 billion back into education. He froze college tuition for the first time in 30 years. And he did ALL of this without raising taxes.

To accuse Andy of not supporting education is simply an ignorant and desperate tactic by an opponent completely lacking in any real solutions to the challenges our communities face.

The question we should be asking in the Senate race for the 45th district is, “who is this candidate really working for?” Andy has a broad base of support, with strong roots in the PTA and Lake Washington Youth Soccer Association. Time and again in the Senate, he has worked across the aisle to forge consensus, with a focus on solving problems, not partisan bickering. Take a look at his endorsements – you’ll see he receives support from members of both political parties, from business and labor groups, and many others.

On the contrary, his opponent is backed by a California billionaire who has made a $1.2 million contribution. So who do you think Andy’s opponent is working for? Not the people of Washington.

If you live in the 45th district, I urge you to look at the facts and support Andy Hill. He is the only candidate who has proven he works for you, your children, and your community.

Julie Freguia, Redmond