JENNA DENNISON: Congressman Dan Newhouse, who represents Central Washington in the U-S House, is retiring. His district is a longstanding Republican stronghold. And now, 11 candidates say they want to take his seat. NWPB’s Courtney Flatt has more.

COURTNEY FLATT: For over 30 years, Republicans have represented Washington’s 4th District – covering most of Central Washington.

Chris Vance is the  former chairman of Washington State’s Republican Party. He thinks it’s likely a Republican will end up representing Central Washington. But, he says:

CHRIS VANCE: “There's more to being in Congress than just being an ideological warrior and getting up and giving fiery speeches. It's about delivering for your community. Central Washington needs the federal government's help.”

FLATT: In Washington state primaries, the top two candidates advance to the general election. Political scientists say the large number of Republicans running could split the vote. That could mean a Republican and a Democrat could make the November ballot. 

I’m Courtney Flatt.