Politics & Government
Republicans Urge Senate Democrats To Not Use Mike Carrell's Death For Political Gain
With the Senate now tied, Democrats could attempt to seize control of the Senate floor to force a vote on the House budget.
Republicans are urging Senate Democrats to not use Mike Carrell's death to their political advantage.
The Washington State Republican Party released a statement Wednesday following the longtime Lakewood lawmaker's death, saying that it would move swiftly to appoint a replacement.
"I’d like to ask Minority Leader Ed Murray and the Senate Democrats to not manipulate this tragic situation for their own political gain," Chairman Kirby Wilbur said. "We understand there is still plenty of work to be done and the people of the 28th Legislative District deserve to have their voices heard in the Senate."
"We hope Democrats in Olympia will respect Senator Carrell and the process to appoint his replacement.”
Kirby was referring to the possibility that Minority Leader Ed Murray and Senate Democrats could attempt to seize control of the Senate floor to force a vote on the House budget.
Carrell's death leaves the Senate tied 24-24. Democrat Lt. Governor Brad Owen has hinted that he can cast a tiebreaking vote in this situation.
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