KPLU Local News
(2009-11-04)
Listen Now:
null
Dow Constantine, front runner for King County Executive, speaks to supporters on election night at the Edgewater Hotel in Seattle.
Maurice Byrd photo
This was the big party of the night. Hundreds crammed into a ballroom at Seattle's Edgewater Hotel in hopes they'd hear these words from their candidate.
"Thank you to the voters of King County. This is an overwhelming victory tonight, and I'm truly touched at the support we've received."
Most surprising, Constantine says, is the size of his lead, after a hard-fought battle many thought would be much closer. Still, he says he's heard Hutchison's supporters loud and clear, and he asked them to give him a chance.
"I share your concerns about making sure we have an efficient government, and that we have a robust economic recovery. I have made it clear that I am bringing that reform to King County. You watch us, we're gonna do it."
Hutchison was not ready to concede the race Tuesday night. At the Bellevue Hyatt where she held her election night party, the first-time candidate says there are still too many votes to count before official victory or defeat can be declared.
Constantine says the bulk of his support with voters came from his stand on environmental and transportation issues, and from his experience in government. It's that experience that could get an early test with the high-risk of flooding along the Green River. Gary Davis, KPLU News, Seattle.
© Copyright 2012, KPLU
