Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson takes step toward gubernatorial campaign

The race for Washington governor is on, now that Jay Inslee has announced he will not seek another term.

Inslee's announcement came Monday morning. On Tuesday morning, Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced he is launching an exploratory campaign committee.

"I look forward to listening and learning from Washingtonians in every county and corner of this great state," Ferguson said in a video published Tuesday. "The only way we can win and move Washington forward is building the same grassroots coalition we always have, together."

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An "exploratory campaign" is not the same as officially running for governor, but it is a first step. Potential candidates usually make such an announcement to signal to donors and others that they're seriously testing the waters for a run, without officially declaring their candidacy.

"Here is what I believe," Ferguson said. "Washingtonians must have the freedom to make their own health care decisions, to be safe, to breathe clean air and drink clean water, to be free from discrimination, to start a small business, to make a living wage and have a safe work environment, to have opportunities to succeed in all kinds of careers."

Ferguson has strong name recognition. He’s made national press fighting former President Donald Trump in court.

Another Democrat, state lands commissioner Hilary Franz tells KUOW she may announce a run later this week. Franz has said she’s proud of her record on issues like wildfire and climate change policy.