During the primary election season, the four Federal Way mayor candidates had an equal opportunity to speak to voters through their own printed words. For five consecutive Saturdays in The Mirror, each candidate addressed issues specific to Federal Way. The idea was to provide a fair and unfettered platform for candidates to say what they needed to say. Each candidate had the same chance to craft a message and make a pitch.

Are all candidates created equal? Of course not. But each candidate is considered a leader.

When deciding on a mayor for Federal Way, it all comes down to preference in leadership.

• Jim Ferrell’s campaign inherited the controversy leftover from his effort to make this election possible by creating the position of mayor. He is a skilled speaker who leads with raw courage and conviction.

• Linda Kochmar’s leadership roots run deep in the city. She handles decisions with care. She is the consummate local ambassador whose eyes and ears are constantly tuned in on Federal Way.

• Mike Park is the mild-mannered leader who creates connections and builds consensus, especially behind the scenes. He has business smarts and can look at issues with an international perspective.

• Skip Priest established himself as a local leader long before doing the same as a state legislator. Armed with business experience, he is a leader who commands attention and cultivates support.

The top two finishers in the Aug. 17 primary will move on to the November general election. Voters have a tough decision to make. In choosing the candidates whose leadership will best improve Federal Way, The Mirror recommends Skip Priest and Jim Ferrell.