WA-8: Rossi Dominates in New Poll

Controversy has been reigning in the Washington state media about a Global Strategy Group poll (released in part on 4/12; 400 WA-8 likely jungle primary voters) that has been selectively released.  The flap surrounds whether pediatrician Kim Schrier or attorney Jason Rittereiser is in second place.  Under the Washington primary process, the top two candidates advance to the general election regardless of vote percentage or party affiliation.  But, regardless of who is doing better among Democrats, the more important fact is that Republican former state Senator and gubernatorial nominee Dino Rossi begins the race with a commanding lead.  According to the latest release from the GSG, the “uniformed”, or first ballot test question asked, finds Rossi garnering 48% support.  Dr. Schrier is second with 14%, Mr. Rittereiser third at 6%, and a second physician, Shannon Hader (D), is third with 5 percent.  The 8th District is a marginal Republican seat that Rep. Dave Reichert (R-Auburn) is vacating after seven terms.
 
Mr. Rossi lost the closest gubernatorial race ever in 2004, falling just 129 votes short of then-Attorney General Christine Gregoire (D) in a race that took weeks to determine and several recounts.

--Jim Ellis