BELLEVUE -- The race for Washington's 8th Congressional District, currently represented by Rep. Dave Reichert (R), presents a great pickup opportunity for Democrats. Reichert has won narrow victories twice, though Democratic candidates for Senate and president have carried the district reliably for the last two cycles.

One major problem for Democrats: They faced a competitive primary between '06 candidate Darcy Burner and State Sen. Rodney Tom. That threat ended today when Tom decided to bow out of the race, giving Burner a clear shot at the nomination, for now. Tom called Burner to inform her of his decision this morning.

One source close to Tom said the decision was made all the easier after President Bush came to the state to raise funds for Reichert. During that time, Burner used her credentials with the netroots to attract 3200 new donors, raising more than $125,000 over three days. A Burner strategist said it was conceivable that she could raise as much -- or more -- than Reichert did from the Bush visit. Tom raised about $100,000 in a month, though the source admitted Tom couldn't compete with Burner's national fundraising potential.

Tom and another potentially interested candidate, including State Rep. Chris Hurst, said they were deciding between them which would take on Reichert. Hurst was not immediately available for comment as to whether he would reconsider his decision to forgo the race.

For more on Washington's 8th District, check back tomorrow, when RCP takes an in-depth look at the ultimate battleground district.