The different factions of the Republican Party were clearly on display this past weekend, at the “Cascade Conference” in Yakima. 

The conference was hosted by a group called the “Mainstream Republicans of Washington”. Their self-stated mission is to push for the election of more qualified and moderate candidates for public office. Including former congressman and King County Sheriff Dave Reichert, who took the spotlight as keynote speaker. 

 

Mainstream Republicans of Washington has endorsed Reichert in the gubernatorial election. That’s in opposition to the official state GOP, which tapped former Richland School Board member Semi Bird.

 

It points to an ideological split in the party as it tries to rally to be competitive in a state where Republican support has steadily eroded in recent years. 

Guest:

• Jeanie Lindsay, Northwest News Network state government reporter

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