Gregoire, Murray throw weight behind Pelz

Via Howie in Seattle (thanks for the tip):

Dear Central Committee member-

Our party faces a very important election that will help determine ourfuture and our effectiveness. After many successful years, our party chair Paul Berendt, is stepping down. Later this month you will be asked to pick a replacement for Paul. Few other choices you make in the next year will hold greater consequence for Washington State Democrats and whether or not we continue our record of success.

As you know, during Paul's tenure our party has regained majorities in both housesof the state legislature, recaptured a majority of our federal congressional elegation, and retained critical statewide constitutional offices, including Governor. Working with party leaders and concerned citizens all over our great state, we have built an effective voice for Washington state's working families. The stakes of the coming debates with the Republicans could not higher - that's why we need continued effectiveleadership in our party.

As a member of our party's Central Committee, you will chart the course of our party's future. You will be asked to choose between many individuals with a variety of backgrounds, all of whom have shown commitment to our
party's ideals and aspirations.

But one candidate among them stands out - Dwight Pelz.

Dwight will come to this job with a wealth of experience in precisely the areas that will make him an effective Chair, and he has been a passionate advocate for the values we all share.

Whether it's grassroots organizing or articulating our party's message, ensuring that our campaigns will have the resources they need to succeed or being responsive to the people who make up the heart of our party - Dwight's experience and commitment are unparalleled. He is a life-long Democrat who we are confident possesses the skills and know-how to help lead our party to victory.

You will help determine our state's future direction through your vote.

We do not enter this debate lightly, but because the stakes are so high we feel compelled to act. Together we can build on our past successes and create a brighter future for all of Washington. We hope you'll join us in supporting Dwight Pelz for our State Party Chair.

Sincerely,

U.S. Senator Patty Murray
Governor Chris Gregoire

Obviously Pelz is the front runner, and these endorsements make him the favorite to win (notice that Cantwell did not join Murray and Gregoire in making this endorsement). I have some more thoughts on the race for party chair which I'll be posting in a reflection later today (or early tomorrow)