4/24/08

Gregoire visits Snohomish County for campaign kickoff

by Beckye Randall

Supporters of Governor Christine Gregoire packed the Labor Temple in Everett for her April 10 appearance, waving signs and chanting “Four more years.”

Elected officials and dignitaries from the county were on hand to welcome the Democratic governor and her husband, First Mike, as she stumped for votes. During an energetic 20-minute speech that included a unique rendition of “Louie Louie,” Gregoire’s favorite song, the governor covered the highlights of her administration and asked for votes for a second term.

Gregoire praised the achievements and contributions made by the First Gentleman over the past four years as well. The governor reminded local folks that her husband grew up in Everett, graduating from Everett High School, and that her mother-in-law, Mary Gregoire, is still an Everett resident. Mike Gregoire has been an active proponent for veterans’ rights and literacy across the state during the governor’s first term.

“My mother, a single mom who worked as a cook to support her family, had three pieces of advice for me: education, education, education,” said Gov. Gregoire in outlining the need for expanded literacy programs and increased access to higher education.

She also announced an upcoming special event. The Gregoires’ oldest daughter, Courtney, will be married this fall and the family is looking forward to the first wedding to be held in the Washington governor’s mansion in over 100 years.

The Snohomish County visit was the thirteenth stop out of fourteen planned for the governor’s official candidacy announcement tour.