SPOKANE, Wash. — Citing "deceptive and dishonest events," former U.S. Representative and King County Sheriff Dave Reichert is withdrawing his name for consideration for gubernatorial endorsement through the Republican convention process.
"In the past 24 hours, it has become clear that some in the Washington State Republican Party are in such disarray that they’re considering making no endorsement for governor," Reichert said in a prepared statement. "This, after they continually changed rules, broke rules, and twisted the process to accomplish their desired outcome."
During the State Convention, Republican Party delegates gather to define the party's platform, elect leadership and national delegates, along with presidential electors.
A new role of the delegates at the State Convention is to endorse candidates for positions such as governor, U.S. Senate, Congress, and other state offices, according to the convention website. Those candidates who receive an endorsement receive a "comprehensive backing, resources, and infrastructure of the Washington State Republican Party, along with our partner organizations."
The State Convention runs April 18-20.
Reichert said his opportunity to speak came and went as delegates debated what to do with the endorsement process after issues with candidate Semi Bird came to light.
Delegates discussed disqualifying Bird after discovering he pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor crime over 30 years ago. Something he didn't disclose earlier in the election process.
Back in 1991, Bird was charged with bank larceny for lying on a credit application. He used his father's social security number and identification for the application and was sentenced to two years probation and $25,000 in fines and restitution.
Bird confirmed the crime and said it was "embarrassing."
State GOP Chair Jim Walsh said Bird's potential disqualification was discussed because he was "not forthcoming to the candidate committee disclosing information that could be damaging to the party."
According to Bird, he was only told to disclose any felony convictions within the last 15 years, but his charge was a misdemeanor from more than 30 years ago.
"The entire process devolved into a yelling and screaming match within the conference," Reichert explained, adding that it was no longer "fair," "impartial," or "honest."
Eventually, Reichert said he had to make the decision over whether or not he wanted to be part of the process that had "developed into chaos."
Attorney General Bob Ferguson, a Democratic nominee for governor, said "chaotic is an understatement."
"I've been watching a little bit of it. But one thing I know for sure, regardless of who they endorse, it's clear to me Dave Reichert's going to be their candidate in November and look, he's anti-choice, he's opposed to marriage equality, he voted to repeal Obamacare dozens of times," Ferguson said. "I just think his values are badly out of step with those of most Washingtonians. I'm looking forward to facing him in November."
“As we’ve been saying for months, the 2024 WAGOP State Convention, is a real convention," a statement from Walsh reads. "Unscripted and unpredictable. It’s the voice of the delegates. They are in charge. They set the rules. They amend the rules. And they make the decisions. Some people love the rough-and-tumble of politics. Some don’t. Our goal is to win in November.”
Despite not seeking an endorsement through the convention process, Reichert said he's still seeking the endorsement of Republicans statewide.
Reichert first announced he would add his name to the list of Republican gubernatorial candidates in June of 2023.
Reichert is best known for solving the Green River killings. He headed up the investigation leading to the arrest and conviction of Gary Ridgway.
Reichert then ran for Congress, winning multiple elections - something Republicans have struggled with in western Washington districts.
The Republican candidate is among several notable names running for governor in 2024 after Gov. Jay Inslee announced last year he would not seek reelection for a fourth term. Among the most notable names are Democratic candidates and state Attorney General Bob Ferguson and state Sen. Mark Mullet.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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