To the editor:

I get a big kick out of Mr. James Olsen describing himself as a “reform conservative.”

Gary Tripp, too, in his latest pronouncement called Mr. Olsen a reform conservative. Stickers on his campaign signs call for “Real Reform.”

Correct me if I am wrong, but isn’t a reformer someone who wants to change things, normally a liberal, and a conservative someone who not only does not want to change, but wants to go back to the good old days?  So, a reform conservative is then like a political [changeling], someone who has no clue what he wants and who he is. The problem for Mr. Olsen is that he has defined himself over the years as a true conservative, but, obviously, that does not get him enough votes. So, by adding “reform” to his political resume, he expects to harvest a few more votes.

If Mr. Olsen wants to emulate a Republican reformer, check President Teddy Roosevelt’s accomplishments.

If he wants to emulate a true “reform conservative” — the only one coming to mind right off hand, they are a rare breed — learn from Chancellor Bismarck who introduced, for practical reason, over 100 years ago, universal healthcare into Germany. The very conservative Prussian aristocrat, nevertheless, realized the economic advantage of a healthy, educated German people. And it worked and it still works.

Reform candidate Mr. Olsen, tell us whether you are for or against I-594, support or oppose Obamacare, and what is your opinion on gay marriages, and married priests? That will help me decide whether you are the real reformer you claim to be.

JAMES BEHREND

Bainbridge Island