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Being a fast-talking politician isn’t usually thought of as an admirable trait.

But it was an essential survival skill at a League of Women Voters Candidates Forum at Skagit PUD in Mount Vernon Oct. 22.

Area legislative and judicial candidates were limited to a total of five minutes each in offering an introduction, responses to three questions, and a closing statement.

The briskly-paced format was necessary to cover eight Nov. 6 ballot races plus allow time for U.S. Rep Rick Larsen (D-Arlington) and Brian Luke (I-Lynnwood) to speak at the end of the two-hour session.

“This almost feels like speed dating,” Dave Paul, Democratic candidate for State Representative District 10, Position 2 said at one point.

Republican incumbent Dave Hayes stressed his background in law enforcement and said his reputation in Olympia was for working with Democrats to craft legislation.

“I can reach across and beyond the aisle,” he said. “I’m effective because I work with people.”

Both identified as major issues homelessness, crises in mental health and opiate addiction, and the need to strike a balance between environmental protection and economic growth in what is seen as a purple district.

“This district,” said Paul, a Skagit Valley College administrator, “could become a leader in green energy, which will create jobs. It doesn’t have to be an either-or in terms of having a viable economy.”

Hayes struck a similar tone, while also lamenting what he said was a flawed permit process that hinders construction of housing that could address homelessness.

“We have some of the highest environmental standards in the country, and that’s something we should be proud of,” said Hayes. “We can protect jobs and the environment at the same time. “

There was more clash, initiated by Democratic challenger Scott McMullen, in the segment devoted to the 10th District, Position 1 contest.

McMullen, a native Skagitonian, U.S. Air Force veteran and career firefighter/EMT, spelled out specific differences between his platform and that of Republican incumbent Norma Smith.

“Ms. Smith is a nice person,” McMullen said, “but her voting record is not so nice.”

McMullen emphasized his support for green energy development, farmland preservation, and commitment of resources to combat homelessness, addiction, and mental health care.

Smith said her legislative work, particularly in terms of input on the state budget, has helped forge an improved social safety net for both district and state residents.

“I’ve been working on issues that matter to you,” she said, adding that her role has been one of balancing multiple priorities in the district.

On the environment, she pointed to her record as a forest health advocate.

Smith, of Clinton, on south Whidbey Island, cited as one of her strengths a willingness to collaborate with others on behalf of the 10th District, which includes La Conner.

“It’s humbling to serve you,” she said, “and I’ll continue to give you my best.”

McMullen said his mission will be to set and realize high standards for the 10th District.

“Public service is in my blood,” he said. “I will pursue excellence and not settle for the basics. I’ll be present and engaged.”

The standing room only audience also heard from Superior Court Judge Position 2 candidates Rosemary Kaholokula and Laura Riquelme; Court of Appeals Division 1, District 3, Position 1 aspirants Tom SeGuine and Cecily Hazelrigg-Hernandez; and candidates legislative positions in the 39th and 40th.

All participants, alluding to the forum’s time constraints, encouraged members of the audience to consult their voters pamphlets for more detailed information on their candidacies.