This is the user sandbox of QuailWatts. A user sandbox is a subpage of the user's user page. It serves as a testing spot and page development space for the user and is not an encyclopedia article. Create or edit your own sandbox here.
Finished writing a draft article? Are you ready to request review of it by an experienced editor for possible inclusion in Wikipedia? Submit your draft for review!
Washington has a nonpartisan blanket primary system. In a blanket primary, the top two-finishers in the primary face each other in the general election.
Mary Verner sought reelection, despite no Spokane mayor being able to win a second term since 1973, when David H. Rodgers was reelected.[2][3] Until May, Verner had been the only candidate to publicly declare their intention to run, when former congressional aide David Condon announced his bid. Condon previously worked as deputy chief of staff for congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers.[4]
The primary was held on August 16, 2011.[5] Results showed Verner leading Condon by a considerable 25-point margin. However, Condon was able to close the gap, with polling showing him within 3 points of Verner.[6] Condon also repeatedly criticized Verner's handling of the death of Otto Zehm during the mayoral debates.[7] His stance on police oversight helped Condon gain ground with more liberal voters. Condon was also endorsed by Spokane County Democratic Party leader Tom Keefe. In November, Condon was under scrutiny after he allegedly laundered money for campaign funds through the Washington State Republican Party.[8] Mary Verner would ultimately lose to David Condon by nearly 5 points, or almost 3,000 voters.