As reported by Chris Mulick, the 8th District race for House position 1 is getting some unexpected drama. Well, drama considering the district is a full-fledged Republican hotbed where Democratic opponents struggle to get one third of the vote.

Incumbent Shirley Hankins (R-Richland), who hosted a cryptic gathering last Friday where she announced after much speculation that she is planning to start a program to help high school students enroll in trade apprenticeships, has stayed mum about her intentions to run for another term amid speculation that she may retire.

Then today a Democratic challenger announced, and one of the top Democrats in the Tri-Cities, to boot. Carol Moser, a member of the state Transportation Committee and a long time Richland Councilwoman, will seek the seat. Republican Brad Klippert is also running.