LD40

Chris Mulick at the Tri City Herald reports that two of the state's legislative races have changed their complexion in recent days. In the 40th District, where seven candidates are vying for retiring Sen. Harriet Spanel's seat, now former Democrat Steve Hopley, the Commissioner of the Port of Anacortes, has changed his party affiliation from Democrat to independent leaving himself, five Democrats and one Republican to fill out the race.

Meanwhile, 5th District Democrat Jon Viebrock (D-Carnation) originally filed to challenge Rep. Glenn Anderson (R-Fall City) but has now decided to instead seek Rep. Jay Rodne's (R-North Bend) seat in position #1.

The Tri-City Herald's Chris Mulick talked Republican state Senate politics this week with Minority Leader Mike Hewitt (R-Walla Walla). Hewitt was particularly impressed with the campaigns of challengers Linda Haddon in the 10th LD, Randi Becker in the 2nd, and Steve Van Luven in the 40th.

In particular, he was impressed with Becker's doorbelling and Van Luven's ability to connect with influential lobbyists. Districts 2 and 10 are potential swing districts, but the 40th leans heavily Democratic. Hewitt told TCH that he hoped to have 20 seats in the Republican Senate Caucus next session.

Read the full story here.

The Bellingham Herald is reporting that the race for retiring Sen. Harriet Spanel's seat in the 40th LD has grown by two already this week.

The coordinator of Whatcom for Obama, Stephanie Kountouros (D-Bellingham), and a 22-year veteran of the Washington State Patrol, Paul Gonzales (D-Mount Vernon) are the latest entrants into a contest that now has six candidates.

Paul Gonzales' press release announcing his candidacy can be seen here.

With the entry of former Republican State Rep. Steve Van Luven into the race to succeed retiring State Sen. Harriet Spanel, the field becomes more and more crowded by the day.  read more »