Governor Chris Gregoire announced today that she has endorsed Suzan DelBene in the hotly contested race to replace Jay Inslee in the 1st Congressional District. “Getting people back to work is the most critical issue facing our country and we need more experienced leaders in Congress who know how to create jobs. Suzan is that person,” said Gregoire in a press release.

It's no surprise that DelBene is the choice of the Democratic establishment. Her centrist views and demeanor make her a safe choice in a swing district, and her personal fortune and willingness to self-fund make her very attractive to Democratic strategists. But I am a little surprised that a sitting governor would jump in so early to pick a favorite out a field of qualified Democrats. Makes me wonder if the establishment types are getting a little jumpy?

That said, DelBene was also Gregoire's Department of Revenue director, so maybe the governor is just rewarding loyalty with loyalty.