Tucker, Bugbee get split endorsement

The Republicans of Spokane County came to a split decision following an election forum earlier this week: The group endorsed both incumbent Spokane County Prosecutor Steve Tucker and challenger Chris Bugbee.

That left out Republican challenger Dave Stevens, who earlier earned the endorsement of the Spokane County Republican Party.

Democrat Frank Malone and self-proclaimed “Law and Order” candidate Jim Reierson were not invited to the Monday forum sponsored by Republicans of Spokane County, which endorses candidates separately from the main party.

“It’s a great group of people who only have the best interests of Spokane County in mind,” Bugbee said. “I’m thrilled to have” the split endorsement.

Tucker said he also received the endorsement of the Spokane Regional Labor Council, which includes several large unions. Bugbee earlier received the endorsement of the Spokane Police Guild.

Separately, Tucker was elected Wednesday as the secretary of the Washington Association of Prosecuting Attorneys.

He said he would become president of that organization in two years if he is re-elected.