In an unprecedented turn of events, the statewide Republican Party convention in Spokane sparked chaos and controversy on Friday afternoon when party officials initially announced that they would not be endorsing a gubernatorial candidate. The decision came "in light of some information" that candidate Semi Bird had not been forthcoming in the party's vetting process. The announcement was met with an aggravated crowd of delegates, resulting in chants and opposition.

The convention, held at the Spokane Convention Center, saw a record-breaking turnout of approximately 1,800 delegates, the highest in its history. Attendees from across Washington eagerly anticipated the party's endorsement for the governor's race, making it the most anticipated event of the three-day gathering.

The GOP's attempt to bypass endorsing a candidate was prompted by a report from The Seattle Times, revealing that Bird had a misdemeanor conviction from 1993 for lying on a credit card application. However, this decision was soon reversed when a majority of the pro-Bird delegates pushed back against it.

The initial announcement of no endorsement for the governor's race was met with boos and profanities from the crowd, many of whom donned red "MAGA" hats symbolizing their association with former President Donald Trump. GOP Vice Chair Lisa Evans tried to restore order, appealing for respect from the delegates.

It became evident that Bird had strong support among the delegates, overshadowing his opponent, former U.S. Rep. Dave Reichert, who did not attend the convention on Friday. In response to the unfolding commotion, Reichert withdrew his name from the convention's endorsement process, criticizing party leadership for manipulating the rules and disrupting the proceedings.

Reichert emphasized that he was still running for governor and seeking the endorsement of Republican Party members statewide. In a phone interview with The Spokesman-Review, he expressed frustration at the ever-changing rules and accused a group within the Washington State Republican Party of holding the party "hostage."

Bird, seated in the front row, celebrated the news of Reichert's withdrawal with confidence. He described the situation as an example of "self-governance," where the people assert themselves for the greater good of Washington state.

However, Bird did acknowledge his past conviction, taking "full ownership" of it and advocating for human decency and civility. He defended the notion that individuals can stumble and recover.

This dramatic episode at the GOP convention was unprecedented, according to party chairman and state Rep. Jim Walsh, who described the whole affair as a new experience for everyone involved. The delegates ultimately voted to overturn the decision made by party officials, and the endorsement vote is scheduled to take place on Saturday.

In addition to the governor's race, the convention will also endorse candidates for other state positions, including attorney general, auditor, commissioner of public lands, secretary of state, superintendent of public instruction, and a vacant state Supreme Court seat. Republican candidates seeking endorsements were asked to sign pledges stating that they would withdraw from their respective races if they weren't endorsed. Reichert refused to sign the pledge, which raised concerns among party leadership.

The convention's turmoil and Reichert's absence from the event left some attendees feeling disappointed and concerned. Debbie Ogura, a fourth-grade teacher from Yakima, expressed her disappointment, stating that Reichert's absence delegitimized the party in her eyes. She emphasized the importance of leaving a better future for the younger generations.

Looking ahead, Washington's primary elections for state offices are set for August 6th, while the general election will take place on November 5th. Alongside state offices, seats in the Washington Legislature and U.S. Congress will also be up for grabs.