Washington 2020: The Calm Before the Drizzle

[Zioneer]

Hey so I was born in Washington, but haven't lived there since I was 5. So I'd like to know a little about Washington politics (I figure this is the general Washington topics thread. If it isn't, please direct me to the right one).

First, what's the general political layout of Washington? From what I understand, the West, specifically the Puget Sound area is very liberal in most cases, while the East is very conservative. And I know Bellingham is a random liberal college town enclave in an otherwise sparsely populated area. But other than that, I don't know much about which parts of Washington have which political affiliations.

Second, what differences do Washington Democrats have with other Democrats? What are they notably more conservative or more liberal on than other Dems?

Third, are those Socialist Alternative guys actually a factor, or is it just a case of "stronger than usual" third party voting?

Fourth, who represents Kent, Washington? I was born there (in '93), so I'm curious to know who would have represented me and who would be representing me now.

[Zioneer]

Hey, thanks everybody for the clarification. That really helps me to understand Washington politics. I would give you info on Utah politics as a thank-you, but I don't want to hijack the thread.

[Zioneer]

Elway had McKenna leading by 2, and if he wins and it goes to a recount, the Dems will steal it again like they did with Gregoire vs. Rossi in 2004.

Nope, they didn't.

[Zioneer]

I'm really interested in Sawant's candiacy; the issues she's running on and the way she's promoting them are fascinating. Also the fact that she's an actual socialist (without Bernie Sander's years and years of elected experience) is interesting as well. I haven't been paying much attention to Washington politics since I moved from my birthplace in Kent, Washington in 1999 (when I was 5), but I've been following Sawant running for office since last year.

Also, she's kind of attractive, if I may note that.

[Zioneer]

I imagine that voters hate party traitors more than party-switchers.

[Zioneer]

State Rep. Cyrus Habib will run for Tom's Senate seat, while McBride will drop down to Habib's house seat

Ha, the Washington Republicans crying "sexism" when both of Washinton's Senators being women, and the previous governor being a woman.

Also, I think Habib will be a great Congressional candidate a couple of years down the line.

[Zioneer]

Any elections looking interesting in 2016?

[Zioneer]

This has probably been asked before, but why is it still '15 and not '17?

Also I really wish I knew more about Washingtonian politics since I was born there.