Oregon Public Broadcasting

Supporters of a Washington referendum to expand domestic partnership rights have secured a virtually insurmountable lead. 

Ballot counting continues Friday.  But the margin has grown wide enough for supporters to declare victory.

Opponents of Referendum 71 refuse to concede defeat, though.  Correspondent Tom Banse reports.

On election night, the margin was 51-49 in favor of Washington's so-called "Everything but marriage" law. That's widened by two points.  It's now 52-48, which looks to be the final margin. 

The great majority of votes have been counted statewide. 

Religious conservatives argued the expansion of domestic partnership rights is a precursor to gay marriage. 

Protect Marriage Washington campaign manager Larry Stickney says he's not ready to concede defeat.

Larry Stickney: "We're hoping there would be an uptick for our side, maybe even a dramatic tick.  It may not be highly likely.  We hold out some hope."

A message on Stickney's campaign website urges supporters to "pray in a victory."  Meanwhile, the Approve Referendum 71 campaign is accepting congratulations.  Democratic Governor Chris Gregoire says she's ñ in her words -- "very proud" Washington voters stood up for "equality."

Online:

Washington State election results