To the Editor:
This year, for the first time in more than 20 years, there is a contested judge election in Benton County. Three candidates are listed.
I encourage you to seek out and vote for Mike Flinn for circuit court judge. From my perspective as a Benton County lawyer for 40 years and as a pro tem judge for the last 15, Mike is by far the most qualified and prepared candidate for this position. It is a tough job, one that requires balance and a strong grounding in state law and procedure. Mike’s long and varied courtroom experience will enable him to serve effectively from day one.
Benton County has only three circuit judges. Every judge must be able to “hit the ground running” every day and deal justly and effectively with an ever-growing docket. This is not a position for someone who will require on-the-job training.
Fortunately, Mike Flinn is capable and qualified to take on the burdens of judging immediately. His election will continue the Benton County tradition of fair and highly competent judges on the circuit court bench.
John Barlow
Corvallis