I've got a call in to U.S. Rep. Jay Inslee (D-WA, 1) about Gov. Gregoire's big announcement that she will not seek a third term. Inslee, a major environmental advocate in congress, is widely expected to run for governor.

In the mean time, he issued this brief statement:

"I appreciate the Governor's service during these difficult economic times. Today is her day. I will make my intentions on the Governor’s race known shortly.”

His staff adds they anticipate Inslee will make an announcement in "the coming weeks."