In my column yesterday I assessed last week’s election, finding parallels between the national and Washington state outcomes.

Using national trends to interpret our state elections can be risky. We’re different out here and proud of it. But last week showed some unmistakable signs that the wave sweeping most of the country splashed us as well.

Consider just three issues: Republican gains in the Legislature, Tom Steyer’s squandered cash, and the class-size reduction initiative.

The aberrant I-1351 outcome notwithstanding – it cannot stand – the voters sent a pragmatic message.

They want policymakers to concentrate on expanding economic opportunity. They are not interested in fundamental transformation and grand promises. Rather, they’re calling on lawmakers to return to the fundamentals, the things government must get right. Balance the budget. Maintain roads and highways. And make sure every student gets a good education.

Get something done, but not too much, not too fast, and not at too high a cost.