Washington State has a strong tradition of a positive relationship - positive working relationship between labor and management, whether in the private sector or the public sector. It needs to continue to be that way.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
I've always had a very positive relationship with the municipal labor unions - a respectful relationship.
Washington is like playing the Super Bowl, only there are no timeouts, no potty breaks, and the arena is filled with the media. In government, you have to learn to put yourself second in a big way. But I am a business person at heart. I like to be in charge.
We need different perspectives here in Washington - someone who has private-sector experience, somebody who's actually created jobs, manufactures products, understands the incentives and disincentives, the intended and unintended consequences of legislation.
Throughout the 40 years I've been in Washington, I've always worked hard, particularly with regards to the budget issues.
The U.S. economy and workers benefit from a strong, healthy relationship between government and business.
There's a void of leadership in a lot of Washington. I think one of the reasons why there's so much angst across the country.
Washington has to become an ally of business, not the opposition of business.
If you can sell yourself as someone who knows how Washington works, someone who has these relationships, that's a very marketable commodity. If you're seen as someone who knows how this town works, someone who is a usual suspect in this town, you can dine out for years - that's why no one leaves.
Washington's parasitic approach to the private sector must change for there to be widespread, near-term and enduring prosperity and job creation.
As Washington prospers, workers suffer.