November 6, 2012 (2012-11-06) 2016 → Popular vote 1,582,802 Nominee Jay Inslee | Start date November 6, 2012 Percentage 51.5% Party Democratic | |
 | ||
The 2012 Washington Gubernatorial Election took place on November 6, 2012. Candidates in the election were chosen in an August 7, 2012, primary election, under the state's nonpartisan blanket primary system, which allows voters to vote for any candidate running in the race, regardless of party affiliation. The two candidates who received the most votes in the primary election qualified for the general election.
Contents
Incumbent Governor Christine Gregoire decided to retire rather then seek a third term. On March 20, 2012, Jay Inslee left Congress to focus on his campaign for Governor of Washington.
Inslee competed against Republican Rob McKenna in the general election, which took place on November 7. Inslee won the election, and McKenna conceded three days later.
Democratic
Declined
Republican
Declined
Independent
Candidates
Debates
General Election Results
The race was close throughout the night, with results too close to call after 60 percent of ballots were cast. Inslee was declared the winner early the next morning; McKenna conceded later in the evening.
Inslee won only eight of the state's 39 counties, relying on heavy votes from the Seattle metropolitan area pushing him to victory.