Bellingham City Councilmember alleges ethical misconduct against prominent Whatcom County democrat

Bellingham Councilmember Lisa Anderson accused Andrew Reding, a candidate for the city council, of ethical misconduct related to the manipulation of candidate endorsements while he chaired the Whatcom Democrats. Anderson's claims include that Reding altered voting policies to favor specific candidates and made denigrating comments towards women in the party. Reding denied the allegations, suggesting they were politically motivated, and acknowledged a mistake in the endorsement process for candidate Jace Cotton. He clarified that decisions were made collectively by the Executive Board, which he claimed operated without pay. The state Democratic Party is investigating the allegations but has yet to find evidence of wrongdoing.

Reding's current campaign against incumbent Michael Lilliquist adds urgency to the situation, as Lilliquist confirmed he was unaware of the allegations prior to Anderson's letter. Anderson's letter has intensified scrutiny of the local Democratic party's internal dynamics ahead of upcoming elections. The conflict underscores significant divisions within the party as candidates vie for endorsements and public support.