Some answers, please

Similar to many people locally and nationally, I follow the political races with interest. John McCain or Barack Obama for president. Chris Gregoire and Dino Rossi for governor. I sat and watched the hour-long debate between the latter two last Thursday on KOMO-TV.

It's difficult to ascertain much about each candidate during a debate because the candidates only have a short time to delve into issues. The first 10 seconds usually are reserved to blast your candidate's position, and then you vaguely explain your stance in the final 10 or 20 seconds. I hate it, but it plays into Political Science 101: Taking strong positions on issues alienates a certain amount of people. The most successful politicians irritate few and stay in office.

Both candidates seemed to play into this political posturing, but I hope the media and public can press them into answers. I'm concerned with the latest on the economy — the unemployment rate in Washington state soared higher than 6 percent earlier this month. There also is the matter of a $3.2-billion deficit.

Gregoire blamed President Bush's "failed policies" for the problems the state faces. I don't question that issues at the national level affect states, but this response is unacceptable to me. Gregoire needs to take some accountability and explain how she plans to correct these issues. She, not Bush, is directly involved with the state's budget.

Rossi talked about how he created a surplus when he chaired the Senate Ways and Means Committee, but only offered vague responses as to how he would lead us out of these problems.

Here's a message to the candidates from a voter: I want to hear a plan. Deficits are unacceptable. We all have a household budget and I expect you to create a plan to balance the government's with your constituents.

My vote depends on it.