Washington
Republican: Mike McGavick: 39%
Democrat: Maria Cantwell: 58%
Precincts Reporting: 37%
First elected in 2000, Cantwell is seeking second full term. The former CEO of Safeco Insurance, McGavick, was nominated in a six-way primary.
Why we're watching: Sen. Maria Cantwell, endorsed by the pro-abortion Emily's List, overcame her Republican opponent in 2000 by just 2,000 votes out of 2.4 million cast. Election 2006 could be similarly close as Mike McGavick, the former CEO of Safeco Insurance, takes on Cantwell. One deciding factor will likely be money spent – in 2000, Cantwell outspent her opponent nearly 2 to 1. This time around, her opponent is a multi-millionaire.
(Paid for by Focus on the Family Action)
