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 a decline in overall rates, a decline in the frequency of use and 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.

Tony Simpson

Olga