The two Democratic candidates for Washington governor exhibit a clear difference of style – with Attorney General Christine Gregoire displaying a careful intensity and Ron Sims showing passion and boldness.

But what about their beliefs? The Spokesman-Review asked Gregoire and Sims – along with Republican frontrunner Dino Rossi — for their positions on five key issues facing Washington state: a state income tax, gay marriage, tort reform, the sales-tax initiative, and student achievement.

We also asked the major candidates for the nonpartisan office of state superintendent of education for their positions on educational matters. That race will be decided in the primary election Sept. 14.

This is the third in a series of position grids outlining where candidates for public office stand on critical matters.

For more information, go to www.spokesmanreview.com.