Democratic Congressman Brian Baird, who is leaving office this year, is moving to Edmonds where he might relaunch his political career in the not-too-distant future.
In an interview with The News Tribune, Baird hints that his political career may not be over, even though he decided against seeking re-election in order to spend more time with his twin 5-year-olds.
Baird served six terms in the 3rd Congressional District, which includes most of southwestern Washington and Vancouver, where he currently lives. Republican Jaime Herrera was elected this month to replace him.
Baird has roughly $450,000 in his campaign account. He can donate it to charity or other campaigns. The News Tribune wrote that there’s another alternative.
“I could use it for another race,” Baird said.
He’ll be moving into the 1st District where Rep. Jay Inslee, D-Wa., is safely ensconced. It’s all but certain Inslee will try for governor in 2012 — if Gov. Chris Gregoire doesn’t seek a third term — and that would create a vacancy.
Baird’s arrival is sure to catch the attention of at least two Democrats, Edmonds City Councilman D.J. Wilson and state Rep. Marko Liias. These two are watching Inslee closely, too, as each is believed to be very interested in vying for the congressional seat should it open up.
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