5 viable candidates are looking for the open seat to guide the Washington State Workplace of the Insurance coverage Commissioner, a few of whom possess political expertise and a few who’re educated of the insurance coverage trade. However John Pestinger stands out as the perfect individual to guide that workplace.
Pestinger would exchange Mike Kreidler, who determined to not search reelection. Time for him to go. In 2022, he refused to resign when Gov. Jay Inslee and legislative leaders referred to as for him to step down after former staff in his workplace claimed Kreidler used racist slurs and was demeaning or impolite towards workers members.
Pestinger is a challenge supervisor within the state OIC’s client division. He has greater than 20 years of expertise within the trade, largely within the non-public sector, and 5 years working for the state. He additionally serves as chair of the Washington Veterans Worker Useful resource Group.
His client affairs background can be extraordinarily helpful because the workplace is confronted with mounting client complaints concerning car insurance coverage. Pestinger agrees with a current OIC directive that insurance coverage corporations should inform prospects the explanations for all future price hikes. However, he added, it’s a primary step.
“I feel it’s nice to be clear. Along with that, they need to additionally inform you how one can decrease your charges,” Pestinger informed The Occasions editorial board.
On the subject of the usage of credit score scores as a think about car insurance coverage charges, Pestinger mentioned there’s a “small correlation” between decrease credit score scores and danger of paying premiums, however it’s extra so discriminatory towards folks of coloration, immigrants and individuals who can’t receive credit score. Kreidler ordered a short lived halt to corporations utilizing credit score scores, however a Thurston County choose dominated Kreidler overstepped his authority.
Among the many different creditable candidates operating are state Sens. Patty Kuderer, D-Bellevue, and Phil Fortunato, R-Auburn.
If elected, Kuderer mentioned she would proceed to push for a multistate common well being care plan. Nevertheless, that concept would greatest be developed in her present position as state senator.
Fortunato thought-about operating for secretary of state however mentioned he was drawn to the OIC put up due to the extent of autonomy the place has. He additionally mentioned he opposes the speed hike notification requirement for insurance coverage corporations as a result of “it would add extra prices with out offering a lot profit.”
As insurance coverage commissioner, Pestinger would deliver vitality and a private pleasure to the workplace, with a balanced concentrate on educating and defending shoppers whereas supporting insurance coverage corporations’ capability to achieve the Washington market. He deserves voters’ assist.
