Meet the Republicans duking it out for District 4

Plus more turmoil at S360 and the VP makes a fundraising stop in West Seattle

This is the first part of our new weekly series highlighting races of note in Washington.

The Senate race in the 4th Legislative District is shaping up to be a Republican-on-Republican fight that showcases the different faces of the Washington GOP.

For the past 13 years, Republican state Senator Mike Padden represented the district, which spans most of the Spokane Valley suburbs. The GOP controlled the deep red district for decades and news of Padden’s retirement spurred four Republicans to campaign for his seat.

Here’s why you should care about this: The 4th is a Republican stronghold that’s amassed a lot of political baggage in recent years thanks to its former representatives, extremist Matt Shea, and “Stop the Steal” MAGA Republican Bob McCaslin Jr. More drama on the right could further damage the party’s appeal and kick the Washington GOP’s hopes of picking up legislative seats to the curb.

Sen. Mike Padden is retiring from the Senate after more than 10 years representing District 4. Photo by Tim Gruver.