Everyone's focused on Darcy Burner and Governor Gregoire, but there's good news about other races in Washington.
Molecular biologist and progressive rancher Peter Goldmark reversed what looked like a loss to two-term incumbent Republican Doug Sutherland, and has declared victory in the race for Commissioner of Public Lands. This is actually a pretty significant office, charged with managing 5.6 million acres of public lands to generate income for education. While Sutherland is widely considered an anti-environment tool of the timber and mining industries, Goldmark says "My goal is sustainable management of public resources, transparency in management and reliance on science and law in decision making." Gawrsh! A scientist in charge? What next?
Well, here in my little podunk Island County, we're ruled by three Commissioners with godlike power. Republicans have had a lock on the system forever (with the occasional token Democrat winning a term). 100% white male, natch, and either in league with the real estate developers or actual developers themselves. This election, both of the Repubs were up for re-election (one for a 5th term), and both appear to have been beaten by—gasp—Democratic women!
I've often wondered whether the Republicans' tattered brand in Washington DC would have repercussions at the local level. Here, at least, it seems the answer is yes.