For the first time in nearly four years, Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire and her Republican re-challenger, Dino Rossi, found themselves in the same room Friday night, May 9. The occasion was a retirement party at the Washington Supreme Court for veteran Associated Press reporter Dave Ammons, who has gone to work for Secretary of State Sam Reed.
According to Rossi, he hadn't shared the same room with Gregoire since their final debate in the fall of 2004. That was before Gregoire eeked out a 129-vote victory over Rossi following a contentious election contest, including lawsuit.
I was at the reception for Ammons, and so far as I could tell Gregoire and Rossi did not speak to one another - much less acknowledge each other's presence. However, Gregoire's husband, Mike, did greet Rossi. Perhaps he was sent as an emissary. I think I overheard them talking golf.
But Ammons couldn't resist acknowledging the moment. He reminded the audience of his new role as communications director for the state's top election official. Then, to laughter, he turned to the gubernatorial candidates and implored: "Please, one of you win by a whole lot." To which Rossi piped up: "We are working on it." Gregoire remained silent. But Ammons answered back: "Funny, that's what she said, too."
