Former Democratic Congressman Jay Inslee has declared victory in Washington’s tight contest for governor. The announcement came Friday night shortly after Republican Rob McKenna conceded the race.
McKenna’s concession followed the latest tally of votes. It showed the Republican Attorney General continuing to narrow the gap with Inslee. But not at a pace that would allow him to take the lead. McKenna’s campaign manager announced the race was over in a conference call with reporters. Later McKenna spoke about his future in a Facebook video that did not rule out a future run for office.
“Many of you may be curious about what I’ll do next and right now that’ s up the air. But public service is a part of my DNA,” McKenna said.
McKenna was considered the Republicans’ best shot at winning back the governor’s mansion after nearly three decades of Democratic control. In a short victory speech, Inslee called for the state to unite to “build a working Washington.”
Copyright 2012 Northwest News Network
