It's tempting to joke that the timing of this announcement makes it look like Governor-pretend Fraudoire is forming a military junta.
Posted by Stefan Sharkansky at January 06, 2005 11:05 PM | Email ThisThis is panic.
Gregoire is attempting to instill legitimacy by naming her cabinet. This would be a good strategy if the race were less close or there was no passion amongst the electorate a la Cantwell 2000.
However, the situation is the exact opposite. The Washington electorate is enraged. Almost everyone you talk to cannot believe the outright denial from Greogire of any irregularity in the election given everthing that continues to come out from Shark, the BIAW, et. al. Calling the accusers liars doesn't remove the body or the blood stained murder weapon from the jury's mind.
The good sensibilities of the electorate en masse have been offended. By continuing with this tack, Greogire is slapping moderates who supported her and who have honest, serious questions regarding the election. Furthermore, Gregoire's strong denial of a re-contest and her apparent race towards inauguration is causing many to wonder what she has to hide?
Why fear a revote? it's an opportunity to bolster legitimacy, asuage the sins of KC elections, and still a path to the Governor's office.
Instead, Gregoire plods on, possibly with the casualty of dozens of Democratic legislators in her wake, and the loss of the one thing she covets most.
Blind ambition.
Posted by: Jeff B. on January 6, 2005 11:53 PMJohn Fund said that 40 years ago in Minnesota a Gov took office for 100 days then was kicked out after a challenge to the election was succesful at overturning the certified results.
Sorry, I could not find info on this but maybe Shark has the contacts to get to John to get the details. WA State may need the info soon!
Posted by: ordi on January 7, 2005 12:39 AMSo the jokes on us...