Let's allow my State Senator to tell the story:
"I'm just stunned by the numbers," said Senate Minority Leader Mike Hewitt, R-Walla Walla. "You can be a great swimmer, but you can't live through a 30-foot tidal wave."
More below the fold:
In the 2006 Washington State Legislative Session, Dems were in the majority by 26-23 in the Senate, and 55-43 in the House. Along with having a Dem Governor (Gregoire), this allowed for pretty good control on issues like the budget, but the narrow margin in the Senate was a barrier to more contentious proposals.
And The Wave?
For 2007, how about 32-17 in the Senate and 62-36 in the House! So, can you say Education and Health Insurance and Environmental Restoration? Sure you can!
Just a word on Initiatives.
I-933, Howard Rich's "Expensive Sprawling Chaos" campaign - oh - they call it "Property Rights:" Lost, Big Time.
I-920, "Estate Tax Repeal" for the top 4%: Lost, Big Time.
I-937, "Renewable Energy" percent of power source benchmarks: Passed, Big Time.
Mike Hewitt, you are wrong. It's a 50 foot wave, and swimming is the wrong response. Grab your board, it's a Surfing Safari!