Democrat Rodney Tom shocked Olympia when he joined with Republicans to take control of the state Senate and surprised everyone again last month with his decision against seeking re-election this year.
The Senate Majority Leader sat down to talk about the personal factors behind his departure and the realities of politics in Washington state. He says his priorities changed instantly when he found out his 85-year-old father had been hit by a car. Tom suggests that former Gov. Christine Gregoire would have found a way to bring about a transportation package this year, something that eluded Gov. Jay Inslee and lawmakers. And he tips his hand on who he would like to see succeed him as the senator for the 48th Legislative District's Bellevue, Kirkland and Medina residents.
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