6:04 PM Tue, Jul 19, 2005 | Permalink |
After plenty of speculation, Mike McGavick makes it official.
He's resigning as CEO of Safeco, and making plans to run for U.S. Senate. Watch his 10-minute announcement, unedited:
McGavick launches exploratory committee.
McGavick has a long history in Republican politics and is well-connected with Western Washington's business community. That, combined with his personal wealth, makes one thing clear--this Senate race could get extremely expensive. With recent races topping $20 million between two candidates, this one could get closer to $30--with both national parties prepared to fight for the seat. Thoughts on a McGavick candidacy? How would you size him up against incumbent Democrat Maria Cantwell? And what about Susan Hutchinson and Diane Tebelius, two other Republicans still thought to be considering a run for Senate?
Sen. Maria Cantwell's high profile on the Enron case, along with work on numerous consumer issues, should give us a hint of the campaign strategies we'll see next year. Democrats already have their talking points--describing McGavick as an "insurance industry lobbyist." A consumer vs. business campaign? Will the lines be drawn that simply for voters?
Maybe, maybe not.
We'll have to see - but if McGavick happens to let that happen, that'll be his downfall. Quote unquote.
McGavick may have the backing of party leaders, but he may not run unopposed.
Cantwell is going to win anyway. She is a great senator.
This will be a battle. While Cantwell is much better than Murray as a Senator she does not have any signature ideas outside of getting Snohomish County off from paying Enron. However, while not leading the charge on many issues she is very involved in most of them. Senator Cantwell has a very good political machine and we are Democratic state.
However, having said all that McGavick is a mainstream Republican. He is conservatie enough to keep the right with him but moderate enough not to alienate the rest of the state, (see Ellen Craswell's run for gov for a recipe for disaster for the Republicans) He has the money and already some Republican heavyweights are lining up behind him. The other candidate are done if they don't get in right away.
He is smart to tap into the Rossi themes and will appeal to Rossi supporters. He has the wealth like Cantwell, excellent resume, and worked for Slade Gorton who was successful here in Washington.
My prediction is that this will be the most expensive senatorial campaign in Washington state history with the winner winning by less than a 51 to 49 margin. Another nail biter in the works. Hope the election departments are ready for this.
It's unlikely any Republican could win election after the hijacked Republican party's crimes against the lower and middle classes. Senator Cantwell has a strong enough record to keep her position.
There may be another person out there who may run for the U.S. Senate. We'll have to see if this person makes a move or not. Irregardless of what happens, it will be one of the most interesting Senate races in Washington State history.
Hang on and watch this race closely.