Representative: Pandemic has become political

DAYTON–Inequities in Governor Jay Inslee's "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" proclamation are troubling, says Rep. Bill Jenkin (R-Prosser), who visited here Tuesday.

"I'm frustrated that he's not listening to the people around him or us," Jenkin said. "He's making decisions on his own." Inslee seems to be listening only to Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan, and lately Inslee has been collaborating with Oregon Governor Kate Brown and California's Gavin Newsom on a restarting the economy.

"There's winners and losers out of the essential or non-essential businesses," Jenkin lamented. "You can't go fishing or golfing, or residential construction...it just doesn't make sense to me.

"I think it's turned political," Jenkin continued. "At first, we were totally behind him, but as time moves on, we question the politics behind Inslee's decisions."

Small business is being hit hard, the representative stated. "Regarding the winners and losers, he's not making the small businesses winners," Jenkin said. "It's a tough time."

Jenkin operates a winery and tasting rooms Prosser Vineyards and Winery, and is currently shut down.

"I just want to get back to work, safely," Jenkin said, although he stressed that efforts must be made to protect vulnerable populations.

Jenkin anticipates the governor calling a special session, probably in June, to deal with budgetary issues due to coronavirus.

He did compliment Inslee for not cutting a 3% COLA for retired school employees.