Joint statement issued

The Spokane City Council's three Democratic-leaning members this morning issued a statement condemning the actions of fellow City Councilman Mike Fagan.

On Feb. 21, Fagan co-signed a fundraising newsletter that called Gov. Jay Inslee a "lying whore." "We believe such degrading name-calling has no place in political discourse," said council President Ben Stuckart and Councilmen Jon Snyder and Amber Waldref in a joint statement. "It is especially disturbing that one elected official would use such demeaning terms to describe another elected official."

The statement goes on to say: "Surprisingly, instead of apologizing, Councilmember Fagan defended his actions as appropriate to (the news media). Councilmember Fagan is an elected representative of Spokane and his inappropriate words reflect poorly on our city and our citizens. We strongly condemn his actions. We call on all elected officials in Spokane County to condemn this behavior and bring civility back into our shared political discussion."

In addition, two of the council's Republican-leaning members, Steve Salvatori and Mike Allen also say Fagan should apologize.

“I know Mike believes in the intent of his message, but his choice of words were inappropriate and unprofessional, and in my opinion, he should issue an apology,” Allen said.

Salvatori said the letter reflected poorly on the City Council and contradicts how Fagan has acted as a member of City Council.

“I'm hoping that he will apologize not for his position, but his choice of words,” Salvatori said.