OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Jay Inslee’s campaign disputes that it will cost the state $1 million for an election to replace him in Congress.
Campaign spokesman Sterling Clifford said Monday that he questions the accuracy of the figure. The state Democratic Party notes that the estimate comes from Republican Secretary of State Sam Reed, who is a supporter of Inslee rival Rob McKenna. The party said it was a clear conflict of interest.
Reed’s office relied on estimates from county auditors to say the state will pay $770,000 to cover both the primary and general election. His office also wants to spend $225,000 on voter education.
The election may be confusing for voters because the November ballot will include two 1st District races — one to finish out the final month of his term and one for the term starting in January.
