Cantwell’s Possible Opponents

Wishful thinking has us feeling that Bush’s second term is almost over, which means we’re rapidly approaching the mid-term elections…give or take a few summers. State Republicans are also gearing up for 2006 and a run against Senator Maria Cantwell.

Cantwell has been made a target by the Republican Party, who feel that her low profile along with GOP anger over the governor’s race make her vulnerable. Among those who would challenge her next fall are State Republican Chairman Chris Vance, former Congressman Rick White (who defeated Cantwell in her bid for re-election to Congress in 1994), and rich guys Mike McGavin and Craig McCaw. At the top of the list is Chelan County plaintiff Dino Rossi.

Rossi, who now has the statewide name recognition needed, may pass on a run at the Senate and instead opt for a rematch with Governor Gregoire in 2008. This would open the field to the above mentioned white people, but the White House would prefer to avoid a primary and get behind a candidate early.

White told the Times, "We [Vance, White and McGavick] have all talked and agree there can't be a primary."

Whoever Karl Rove picks to run against Cantwell will probably fare better than his last choice, George Nethercutt, who seemingly never had a real chance against the well known and well funded Senator Murray.

Cantwell, in the meantime, is raising money and attracting big names to her local events as she prepares for a re-election campaign that will attract attention in both Washingtons.