EVERETT — As The Herald’s new editorial page editor, Peter Jackson wants to focus on ideas and solutions.
Jackson, 46, is a well-known writer, conservation advocate and community voice throughout the Pacific Northwest.
He was named to the Herald post on Wednesday, replacing longtime editorial editor Bob Bolerjack, who left the company in June.
Jackson wants to continue Bolerjack’s legacy, with the editorial page serving as “a real platform for substantive issues — not just politics, but societal issues,” he said.
Jackson is set to start work at the Herald on Friday.
His is a familiar name in Snohomish County. He is the son of Sen. Henry M. “Scoop” Jackson. His mother, Helen Jackson, still lives in Everett.
One of Jackson’s first tasks as editorial page editor will be vetting candidates and writing endorsements for key races in the primary election, Publisher David Dadisman said Wednesday.
Jackson also will be meeting with community leaders and looking for new ways to engage readers through print and digital products.
Jackson was drawn to The Herald because of its commitment to reporting news that’s relevant and vital to its community, he said.
Newspapers face unique challenges and increased competition due to the changing media landscape, but The Herald and its owner, The Washington Post Co., have the people and the resources to adapt and thrive, he said.
“I think, in many ways, it’s an exciting, scary time when you’re in the vanguard of this evolving new media, and the key is a paper like The Herald provides a critical public service by providing essential knowledge.”
Since the announcement, The Herald’s offices have been flooded with positive reactions from inside and outside the company, Dadisman said.
Jackson’s firm grounding in local issues made him a strong candidate, Dadisman said.
“We wanted somebody who knew the area and who could start off running right away,” he said.
People may recognize Jackson as a writer at Crosscut, an online news magazine based in Seattle. He also has served as a speechwriter for governors Chris Gregoire and Gary Locke, and has filled other public service roles.
Jackson lives in Seattle with his wife, Laurie Werner.
Rikki King: 425-339-3449; rking@heraldnet.com
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