The battle for control of Washington's state Legislature is so tight even President Obama is getting involved.
Lisa Wellman is the Democrat challenging Republican incumbent Steve Litzow in the 41st District, a seat that serves Mercer Island, Bellevue, Sammamish and parts of Renton.
She told us why it is time for the Democrats to be in charge of the state Senate.
“I think, you know, if you look at what didn't get done because the Republicans are in charge," Wellman said.
Her focus is largely on solving the education funding crisis that led to the state Supreme Court's McCleary ruling.
Right now Republicans hold a three-seat majority in the state Senate.
If they lose just two seats, Democrats would gain control.
That's where Obama comes in.
“Hi, this is Barack Obama and I'm asking you to support Lisa Wellman,” The Presidentthe president said in a recently recorded statement that can be used in radio ads and robocalls.
Litzow is fighting to retain his seat and keep the Republicans in charge. He's focused on education too.
“We'll we've made more progress in the past four years (of Republican Senate control) than we have in the last 20. We've put $4.5 billion into education."
Litzow doesn't think the president's endorsement will have much effect.
“Not that I'm aware of. This has been a very local election," he said. In contrast to past years, he says, voters rarely bring up the presidential race.
But Wellman is glad for a little national help.
“Well you know, he (Obama) is very well-liked in the 41st District," she said.
Wellman won a close victory in the primary by nearly 500 votes, but Litzow has had a big money advantage in the general election campaign.
Cox Media Group
