All indications are that it's going to be a close race between U.S. Sen. Patty Murray and Dino Rossi. But I think the Republicans blew their chance to take advantage of the 2010 dynamic.

They thought Rossi's high name ID was a plus. It's actually a minus. Here's what I mean: There's an anti-incumbent vibe out there. But for all intents and purposes, Rossi is an incumbent. He's status quo GOP. That's what running twice for governor does for you. You become part of the furniture.

I'm not saying Murray isn't in trouble. Obviously, she's an incumbent as well. But throwing Rossi at her isn't the most inspiring thing the Republicans could have done.

I think state Rep. Jaime Herrera, for example, would have been a much better option against Murray for the Republicans.