Art Coday, one of a flock of Republican candidates who were in the U.S. Senate race, said today he's getting out and supporting Dino Rossi.

Coday said he'll run for an open state House of Representatives seat in the 32nd Legislative District instead.

Coday, a Shoreline physician, said none of the other candidates' views matched his perfectly, but he's been a longtime supporter of Rossi, backing both of Rossi's bids for governor.

"I think highly of each of these guys," Coday said. "I think Dino has the best chance of beating Patty Murray."

Rossi, who has been discussed as a possible candidate for months, officially entered the crowded race on Wednesday. Staying in are (alphabetically) Paul Akers, Don Benton, Clint Didier, Skip Mercer, Sean Salazar and Craig Williams.

And, of course, Murray, a Democrat seeking her fourth term. In the state's Top Two primary system, they all appear on the ballot together (along with anyone else deciding to file next month). The two top vote-getters go on to the November general election, regardless of party preference.

---

---