I watched a debate between Rossi and Gregoire on the gooberment channel. Didn't really have a predetermined favorite in this contest, but was very impressed with Gregoire's answers and her poise in this format. Either candidate might say they're the sportsmen's friend, but which one is going to replace the current Director of Fisheries with a sports-friendly director? Rossi's answers were too right wing Republican for my taste. I don't blindly subscribe to the notion that whatever is good for business is good for my family, or the citizens of Washington. He wrote the budget that neutered two voter passed initiatives. He was evasive when asked if he would advocate for increased stem cell research, and the establishment of a stem cell research institute in this state.

Recent independent polls showed Gregoire to have an 11% lead over Rossi. I think I'll join the crowd and cast my vote for her. It would be good for Washington state to have a Democratic governor to work with President Kerry .