 Gov. Gregoire talks to Taiwan official Director General of Taipei Economic and Cultural Affairs at the banquet |
It only took 48 hours, but the scene shifted from Democrat to Republican, Taiwan to China at the House of Hong Restaurant. Gov. Christine Gregoire and her husband Mike attended the Chong Wah Benevolent Association’s banquet at the restaurant in her honor on May 21. She was surrounded by Taiwan officials and pro-Taiwan community members.
Michael Chen toasting with Rob McKenna
Then on May 23, at the Seattle Oak Tin Association’s 110th anniversary celebration, held also at the House of Hong, Attorney General Rob McKenna appeared at the same head table where the governor had sat. Many people know that he has his eyes on her seat if Gregoire is going to be President Obama’s solicitor general.
Sitting at the table was Chinese deputy consul general Mao Qingwen. China and Taiwan officials fight hard on being invited to these Chinese events. What a game of musical chairs in the community!
Make no mistake, the Chinese community is supportive of Washington state’s governor and has been courteous to many officials. Lt. Gov. Brad Owen is the usual dignitary to attend Chinese community’s events.
So if Obama asks Gregoire to serve, Owen would continue Gregoire’s term as governor. I bet Owen dreams about that. How nice to take over the governorship without having to run for it.
Gregoire denied the rumors at the dinner.
“I am humble to be on the list. But I am proud of Washington state. I am not asking for a job. I have a job. I love the people of Washington state,” said Gregoire.
But no one knows. Politics changes fast, just like the parties change each day at the House of Hong. ♦