I received a dire email from a candidate for prosecuting attorney warning of methamphetamine and heroin in our schools. This is a fear tactic to get your vote and is not supported by data.

The state of Washington has an active, ongoing survey program of drug use in schools. While I can’t speak to the entirety of San Juan County, the data for Orcas Island Schools shows (1) a decline in overall rates, (2) a decline in the frequency of use and (3) an overall delay in first use by students.

You can vote for any candidate you choose, but if you’re doing it because of drugs in our schools, you’re being misled.

I personally will vote for the candidate who is not misleading the voters with fear.

Anthony Simpson

Olga