When creating what was to become the state of Washington, Congress in it's infinite wisdom declined the suggestion that it be named Columbia. The reason they came up with was that it would get confused with the District of Columbia, so they named it Washington. We now have to say Washington STATE because people get it confused with Washington D.C.! Congressional Wisdom, just another way to say they don’t make mistakes! With that fine model to go by it is a tradition that has carried on in state and local politics since. That being said! It’s a beautiful place! Mountains, remote beaches, wheat ranches, big timber, and big fish! (and for city folk! Seattle in worth a look!)