Chris,

I've met Mr. Rossi. He's a very bright, articulate and personable guy. His day job is in commercial real estate and development, so naturally folks presume he's "slimey." I don't. I know and respect lots of real estate developers. I just don't agree with his policies and politics.

On the other hand, I know Chris Gregoire quite well. She is also very bright and very articulate. She's also a very demanding boss - a trait which is often admired in men, but not appreciated in women - a latent gender bias in these days of supposed gender equality. But I didn't vote for Chris because of her personality. I voted for her because I agree with her policies and politics, and because she knows how to get things done.

Both of these people are decent individuals. Both are competent to serve as Governor. That being said, Chris will make the better Governor.

Donald

P.S. I dashed off a note to Sam Reed today thanking him for how he handled the election controversy. If there is any hero in all of this, its Sam. His first and foremost interest was that people's votes were counted. As a Republican he has been criticized by many from his own party for taking a non-partisan principled stand. We are truly lucky to have him as our Secretary of State.