Washington in Focus

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WA Election Results 2026: Republicans Face Major Legislative Losses + Income Tax Repeal Faces Defeat Nov 04, 2026

Show notes

Washington election results from November 3, 2026, show Democrats gaining ground in key state legislative races, Washington's income tax repeal initiative trailing, and a ballot measure addressing transgender participation in girls' sports leading in early returns.

In this edition of Washington in Focus Daily, The Center Square examines the latest Washington midterm election results, the potential impact on the state legislature, five Washington Supreme Court races, and major statewide ballot initiatives.

The episode also features reactions from Washington Republican leaders, Let's Go Washington founder Brian Heywood, girls' sports advocate Francis Scott, and an exclusive interview with Pierce County Sheriff Keith Swank following voters' apparent rejection of a proposal to replace the elected sheriff system.

WASHINGTON REPUBLICANS FACE LEGISLATIVE LOSSES

Washington Democrats are leading in several closely watched state legislative races, raising questions about whether the party could expand its control in Olympia.

Republican incumbents in multiple legislative districts are trailing Democratic challengers, although several races remain too close to call.

Washington GOP Chairman Jim Walsh discusses the election results and the party's expectations for key congressional, legislative, and Supreme Court races.

Republican Representative Brian Burnett, trailing Democrat Stacey Willoughby in Legislative District 12, says he believes outstanding ballots could change the outcome. Burnett also expresses concern about the possibility of Democrats gaining a legislative supermajority.

Representative Travis Couture, who holds a narrow lead in his own race, calls on Washington Republicans to reconsider their political strategy following election setbacks.

WASHINGTON SUPREME COURT ELECTION RESULTS

Washington voters decided five Supreme Court contests in the November 3 election.

In one closely watched race, Sean O'Donnell leads Ian Burke in preliminary returns, potentially giving a candidate described as more moderate a seat on Washington's highest court.

The report examines the election results and the political spending that attracted attention during the judicial campaigns.

WASHINGTON INCOME TAX REPEAL INITIATIVE 645 TRAILS

Washington voters appear poised to reject Initiative 645, the ballot measure seeking to repeal the state's income tax.

Let's Go Washington founder Brian Heywood criticizes the campaign against the repeal initiative and says opponents of the income tax will continue challenging the policy.

The election results could have significant implications for Washington tax policy, businesses, high-income taxpayers, and future legislative debates.

WASHINGTON GIRLS' SPORTS INITIATIVE 638 LEADS

Initiative 638, which addresses transgender athlete participation in girls' school sports, is leading in early Washington election returns.

The report examines reactions from supporters who gathered at a Let's Go Washington election night event in Redmond.

Brian Heywood addresses supporters, while Tumwater High School athlete Francis Scott expresses gratitude for the campaign and the early election results.

The initiative was leading by approximately 56.7% to 42.2% in the returns discussed in the report.

WASHINGTON PARENTAL RIGHTS INITIATIVE 001

Initiative 001, a measure concerning parental rights in education, is trailing in early election returns.

The episode examines the mixed results for Let's Go Washington's three ballot initiatives and the implications for education and state policy.

PIERCE COUNTY SHERIFF KEITH SWANK REACTS TO ELECTION RESULTS

Pierce County voters are rejecting Amendment 53 in preliminary returns, opposing a proposal to replace the elected sheriff system with an appointed sheriff.

In an exclusive interview with The Center Square, Pierce County Sheriff Keith Swank responds to the results and criticizes the proposed change.

Swank describes the amendment as an attempt to remove him from office and says he will continue speaking out on issues involving law enforcement and constitutional rights.

Pierce County Amendment 54, which proposes a sheriff oversight ombuds office, is also trailing in early returns.

WASHINGTON ELECTION RESULTS AND ANALYSIS

The Center Square continues tracking Washington election results as county election offices count additional ballots.

Several legislative and judicial contests remain undecided, and the outcomes could change as more votes are reported.

Subscribe to Washington in Focus Daily for Washington state government news, election analysis, tax policy, public safety, education, and government accountability.

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#WashingtonElection #WashingtonPolitics #IncomeTaxRepeal #GirlsSports #Election2026

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Washington Election Day 2026: Voter Turnout, Ballot Returns and DOJ Monitoring Nov 03, 2026

Show notes

Washington Election Day 2026 is here, with voters deciding major congressional races, five Washington Supreme Court contests, local public safety measures, and statewide ballot initiatives involving income taxes, girls' sports, and parental rights.

Meanwhile, Let's Go Washington has filed new complaints with the Washington State Public Disclosure Commission (PDC), alleging that campaigns opposing several ballot initiatives failed to comply with political advertising and campaign finance disclosure requirements.

In this Election Day edition of Washington in Focus Daily, The Center Square examines voter turnout, closely watched races, ballot measures, and new allegations about campaign spending transparency.

WASHINGTON ELECTION DAY 2026: VOTER TURNOUT AND BALLOT RETURNS

More than 40% of Washington's approximately 5.1 million registered voters had returned ballots as of Monday evening, according to figures discussed in the report.

Early ballot returns show significant differences among age groups, with voters 65 and older returning ballots at higher rates than younger voters.

Only approximately 13% of registered voters ages 18–24 had returned their ballots by Monday evening.

The report also examines ballot drop box usage, signature challenges, voting centers, and federal election monitoring in Washington.

WASHINGTON'S 3RD CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT: MARIE GLUESENKAMP PEREZ VS. JOHN BRAUN

One of Washington's closely watched congressional races features Democratic incumbent Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and Republican challenger John Braun in the state's 3rd Congressional District.

With more than $10 million in campaign spending reported entering the final weeks, the contest has attracted attention from political organizations inside and outside Washington.

The outcome could contribute to determining control of the U.S. House of Representatives.

FIVE WASHINGTON SUPREME COURT SEATS ON THE BALLOT

Washington voters are also deciding five Supreme Court contests in an unusually consequential judicial election.

The races include incumbent justices and candidates competing for seats previously filled through gubernatorial appointments.

The Center Square examines the judicial contests, political spending, and resources available for voters researching the candidates.

PIERCE COUNTY SHERIFF AMENDMENTS 53 AND 54

Pierce County voters are considering proposed changes affecting the sheriff's office, including how the sheriff is selected and how complaints and oversight would be handled.

The episode examines the proposed amendments and their potential implications for local law enforcement accountability.

WASHINGTON INITIATIVES 001, 638 AND 645

Washington voters are deciding three major ballot measures addressing parental rights, girls' sports eligibility, and the state's income tax.

Initiative 001 concerns parental rights in education.

Initiative 638 addresses transgender athlete participation in girls' sports.

Initiative 645 concerns repeal of Washington's income tax.

The measures have generated significant political advertising, fundraising, and public debate.

LET'S GO WASHINGTON FILES CAMPAIGN FINANCE COMPLAINTS

Let's Go Washington has filed complaints with the Washington State Public Disclosure Commission concerning campaigns opposing the ballot initiatives.

In an interview with The Center Square, Hallie Herzberg of Let's Go Washington discusses allegations that No Hate in Washington State continued using outdated campaign disclosures following an organizational name change.

Herzberg also discusses a separate complaint involving the No on 645 campaign, alleging disclosure problems connected to as much as $2 million in political expenditures.

These are allegations raised in complaints, not established findings of wrongdoing.

The interview explores political advertising transparency, campaign finance reporting requirements, and voters' ability to identify who is funding election messaging.

WASHINGTON ELECTION RESULTS AND COVERAGE

The Center Square will follow Washington election results, congressional races, Supreme Court contests, and ballot initiatives as returns are reported.

Subscribe to Washington in Focus Daily for independent reporting on Washington politics, government accountability, elections, taxes, public safety, and education policy.

GET WASHINGTON NEWS BY TEXT

Keeping up with Washington state news shouldn't feel like a second job.

The Center Square sends important Washington state government and policy updates by text approximately twice a week.

Text TCSWA to 206-944-3016 for a quick breakdown of what happened, why it matters, and what it could mean for you.

#WashingtonElection #WashingtonPolitics #LetsGoWashington #CampaignFinance #Election2026

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WA Income Tax Could Sink Charity Donations + Controversial Attack Ads Continue Ahead of Election Nov 02, 2026

Show notes

A Camas High School transgender cross-country runner has qualified for Washington's girls' state championships, intensifying debate over transgender athlete participation just before the November 3, 2026 election.

Meanwhile, Washington Supreme Court races are attracting additional political action committee spending, and Seattle Children's CEO Dr. Christopher Longhurst is warning that Washington's income tax charitable deduction cap could discourage major donations to hospitals and nonprofits.

In this episode of Washington in Focus Daily, The Center Square examines the Camas cross-country controversy, Washington's girls' sports ballot initiative, judicial election spending, and the potential impact of state tax and labor policies on charitable organizations.

CAMAS CROSS-COUNTRY RUNNER QUALIFIES FOR STATE AMID GIRLS' SPORTS DEBATE

A transgender student athlete from Camas High School qualified for Washington's girls' state cross-country championships after finishing seventh at the Westside Classic regional meet at Chambers Bay Golf Course in University Place.

The athlete reportedly began the season competing in the boys' division before switching to the girls' division under Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) eligibility rules.

The Camas girls' team also qualified for the state championships in Pasco.

With Washington voters considering Initiative 638, transgender athlete participation in school sports has become a major election issue.

Libby Watson, campaign manager of No Hate in Washington State, urges voters to reject Initiative 638 and the parental rights measure, Initiative 001, arguing that the proposals would harm LGBTQ+ students.

WASHINGTON SUPREME COURT ELECTION SPENDING DRAWS SCRUTINY

Washington's five Supreme Court races are attracting major political spending ahead of Election Day.

The Washington Public Disclosure Commission recently issued an interpretive statement directing staff not to enforce certain campaign contribution limits amid legal uncertainty.

Critics question the decision's timing and its effect on late campaign donations.

According to figures discussed in the report, another $100,000 was contributed to the political action committee Beware the Attack on Our Courts.

Washington Supreme Court candidate Judge Dave Larson criticizes the PDC decision and questions the role of outside political spending in judicial elections.

The report also examines questions surrounding political advertisements appearing on Google and Meta platforms, Washington campaign finance disclosure requirements, and attacks targeting judicial candidates.

SEATTLE CHILDREN'S CEO WARNS ABOUT WASHINGTON INCOME TAX AND CHARITABLE DONATIONS

Seattle Children's CEO Dr. Christopher Longhurst is raising concerns about Washington's $100,000 state charitable deduction cap associated with its income tax.

Longhurst warns that limiting the deduction could discourage high-value charitable contributions supporting hospitals, medical research, community organizations, and other nonprofits.

The concerns come as Washington voters prepare to decide an income tax repeal measure.

Todd Myers, vice president for research at the Washington Policy Center, discusses the potential impact on charitable giving and the financial challenges facing nonprofit organizations.

Myers also raises concerns about Washington's salary and overtime regulations, including an increasing salary threshold for overtime exemptions that he argues could make staffing more expensive for charitable organizations.

He urges lawmakers to consider changes to nonprofit employment rules regardless of the election outcome.

The discussion examines how Washington income tax policy, charitable deductions, labor costs, and nonprofit funding could affect organizations such as Seattle Children's.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Washington Election Eve Preview
01:55 Camas Runner Qualifies for Girls' State Cross-Country Championship
03:46 Washington Girls' Sports Initiative Debate
05:50 Joel Retzlaff Discusses State Qualifier
08:54 No Hate in Washington State Campaign Responds
11:18 Washington Supreme Court Election Spending
12:27 Judge Dave Larson Criticizes Campaign Finance Decision
13:50 Digital Political Advertising Questions
15:12 Seattle Children's CEO Warns About Charitable Donations
17:48 Todd Myers Discusses Washington Nonprofit Costs
20:40 Proposed Changes to Nonprofit Employment Rules

GET WASHINGTON NEWS BY TEXT

Keeping up with Washington state government and policy shouldn't feel like a second job.

The Center Square sends important Washington news updates by text approximately twice a week.

Text TCSWA to 206-944-3016 for updates on what happened, why it matters, and what it could mean for you.

#WashingtonElection #GirlsSports #CamasHighSchool #SeattleChildrens #WashingtonPolitics

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WA Voters Could Ditch Puget Sound Energy + Initiative Campaign Reports Widespread Sign Vandalism Oct 30, 2026

Show notes

Washington voters could take a major step toward replacing Puget Sound Energy (PSE) with public power as Kitsap County Proposition 1 heads to the November 3 election. Meanwhile, Governor Bob Ferguson faces calls to opt Washington into a federal scholarship tax credit program that supporters say could unlock hundreds of millions of dollars in annual education funding.

In the October 30, 2026 edition of Washington In Focus Daily, The Center Square examines rising electricity rates, Seattle's homelessness crisis, federal education tax credits and reported election sign vandalism ahead of Election Day.

PSE VS. PUBLIC POWER: KITSAP COUNTY PROPOSITION 1

Kitsap County voters will decide Proposition 1, a ballot measure involving the Kitsap Public Utility District and the possibility of expanding public power service.

The proposal has drawn opposition from Puget Sound Energy, which has reportedly spent approximately $2.5 million campaigning against the measure.

PSE Senior Vice President of External Affairs Matt Steuerwalt explains the utility's concerns about the proposal, potential infrastructure acquisition costs and the implications for roughly 130,000 electric customers in Kitsap County.

The discussion also examines PSE's proposed rate increases, Washington's clean energy mandates and the rising cost of electricity.

Steuerwalt says PSE's annual power supply costs have increased from approximately $750 million to $2 billion over the past seven to eight years. He also discusses the challenges of meeting Washington's 2030 clean energy requirements.

SEATTLE TINY HOUSE VILLAGE FACES DRUG USE QUESTIONS

Seattle's new Cloverleaf tiny house village is facing scrutiny following conflicting accounts about whether dedicated spaces will allow residents to use drugs on the property.

Independent journalist Jonathan Choe interviewed former Washington Governor Chris Gregoire and nearby construction workers about the project.

The workers say they were told by project staff that two units would accommodate drug use. A project representative disputes the existence of dedicated drug-use spaces.

The Center Square examines the conflicting claims and ongoing questions about Seattle's Housing First homelessness strategy, harm reduction policies and addiction recovery.

MEAD SCHOOL DISTRICT URGES FERGUSON TO APPROVE SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP TAX CREDIT

Mead School District is urging Washington Governor Bob Ferguson to opt the state into a federal scholarship tax credit program.

Mead School Board President Brianna Gray discusses how privately funded scholarships could support public school students through tutoring, technology, extended-day programs and special education services.

Supporters estimate Washington could potentially benefit from $700 million to $1.5 billion in annual scholarship contributions, although the amount that would ultimately become available remains uncertain.

The episode also includes comments from Seattle's school superintendent, who raises questions about the program's rules, its potential impact on public education and how much funding would actually reach Washington students.

LET'S GO WASHINGTON OFFERS $5,000 REWARD OVER ELECTION SIGN VANDALISM

Let's Go Washington is offering a $5,000 reward connected to the arrest and conviction of a person allegedly recorded removing campaign signs.

The group reports more than 80 incidents involving signs supporting Washington ballot initiatives, including the income tax repeal, parental rights and girls' sports measures.

The report examines the allegations, video footage and Washington laws concerning unauthorized removal or defacement of political signs.

WASHINGTON ELECTION 2026

Election Day is November 3. Washington In Focus Daily will continue covering the election results, statewide ballot initiatives, utility policy, education funding and government accountability.

Subscribe for independent reporting on Washington state government, Seattle politics, public safety, taxes, education and the economy.

Get important Washington government and policy updates by text about twice a week.

Text TCSWA to 206-944-3016.

#WashingtonPolitics #PugetSoundEnergy #BobFerguson #SeattleHomelessness #WashingtonElection

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Unions Pour Money Into WA Income Tax Fight + Seattle Business Leaders Criticize Wilson's New Plan Oct 29, 2026

Show notes

Washington public employee unions are making major campaign contributions just days before the November 3 election, following a decision by the Washington Public Disclosure Commission not to enforce certain contribution limits. Meanwhile, Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson faces renewed criticism of her homelessness strategy, and a Washington appeals court delivers an important procedural victory to Seattle landlords challenging city rental regulations.

On the October 29, 2026 episode of Washington In Focus Daily, The Center Square's Carlene Johnson covers Washington campaign finance, the Seattle homelessness crisis, property rights and early election turnout.

WASHINGTON UNION DONATIONS SURGE BEFORE NOVEMBER ELECTION

Following the Washington Public Disclosure Commission's recent decision concerning campaign contribution limits, large donations are flowing into political action committees involved in Washington's 2026 election.

The Center Square examines reported SEIU-related contributions, including $250,000 to the Beware the Attack on Our Courts PAC and $150,000 to the No on I-645 campaign, which opposes an initiative to repeal Washington's income tax.

The report also examines New Direction PAC, Washington Education Association contributions and spending related to Washington Supreme Court elections.

KATIE WILSON'S SEATTLE HOMELESSNESS PLAN FACES CRITICISM

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson's new homelessness strategy is drawing questions from business leaders, public policy researchers and addiction recovery advocates.

Downtown Seattle Association CEO Jon Scholes tells The Center Square that Housing First can be an appropriate approach but is not sufficient without addiction treatment, recovery housing and additional services.

Washington Policy Center's Eric Zimmerman and We Heart Seattle's Andrea Suarez offer further criticism of the city's homelessness policies, including its reliance on existing providers and voluntary programs.

The report examines Seattle's fentanyl crisis, Housing First policies, the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) program and the debate over recovery-focused alternatives.

SEATTLE LANDLORDS WIN IMPORTANT APPEALS COURT RULING

A Washington State Court of Appeals decision reverses the dismissal of a lawsuit brought by GRE Downtown against the City of Seattle over the combined impact of rental housing regulations.

The dispute involves the Addison on Fourth apartment building, a low-income housing property in Seattle's Chinatown-International District.

The property owner alleges that Seattle's rental ordinances contributed to substantial financial losses and amounted to an unconstitutional regulatory taking.

Sean Flynn, president and CEO of the Washington Rental Housing Association, explains why the ruling could matter for other property owners challenging local housing regulations.

The appeals court decision allows the claim to proceed; it does not establish that Seattle must pay damages.

WASHINGTON ELECTION 2026: BALLOT RETURNS

With the November 3 election approaching, Washington election officials report approximately 1.38 million returned ballots out of roughly 5.1 million registered voters as of October 28.

Jefferson County leads the state in early ballot returns, with more than 48% returned.

The Center Square speaks with Jefferson County's auditor about voter participation, election administration and efforts to introduce students to the voting process.

WASHINGTON IN FOCUS DAILY

Subscribe to The Center Square for Washington state politics, Seattle news, taxpayer accountability, election coverage, homelessness policy and housing economics.

Get important Washington government and policy updates by text about twice a week.

Text TCSWA to 206-944-3016.

00:00 Washington In Focus Daily — October 29, 2026
02:17 Union Donations and Washington Campaign Finance Rules
04:26 SEIU Contributions to Election PACs
05:23 New Direction PAC and Union Campaign Spending
06:05 Katie Wilson's Homelessness Plan Faces Criticism
07:48 Downtown Seattle Association CEO Jon Scholes Responds
08:19 Scholes Discusses Housing First and Addiction Treatment
10:14 Washington Policy Center Criticizes Seattle's Approach
11:23 Eric Zimmerman Discusses Drug Enforcement and Recovery
13:43 We Heart Seattle's Andrea Suarez Responds
14:39 Suarez Discusses Housing First and Addiction Intervention
17:11 Seattle Landlords Win Appeals Court Ruling
18:41 Addison on Fourth Property Owner's Alleged Losses
19:14 Sean Flynn Explains the Landlord Lawsuit
21:22 Appeals Court Reverses Lower Court Dismissal
22:37 Washington Election Ballot Return Update
23:36 Jefferson County Leads Early Ballot Returns
24:17 Jefferson County Auditor Discusses Voter Education
25:29 November 3 Election Coverage Preview

#WashingtonPolitics #WashingtonElection #KatieWilson #SeattleNews #WashingtonNews

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Katie Wilson DODGES Our Question About Seattle's Federal Funding + Ferguson's New Fraud Task Force Oct 28, 2026

Show notes

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson faces questions about potential federal homelessness funding cuts. Washington Governor Bob Ferguson creates a new statewide fraud prevention office amid growing questions about taxpayer oversight. And Brandi Kruse speaks out about her removal from a Portland Thorns soccer game.

On the October 28, 2026 episode of Washington In Focus Daily, The Center Square examines three major stories involving Seattle homelessness policy, Washington state government accountability and the ongoing Portland Thorns controversy.

SEATTLE MAYOR KATIE WILSON QUESTIONED ABOUT FEDERAL FUNDING

The Center Square's Tim Clouser questions Mayor Katie Wilson about how Seattle would respond if changes to federal Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funding put Housing First programs at risk.

The report examines Seattle's homelessness strategy, the city's reliance on federal grants and criticism from Art Dolan of Battlefield Addiction about the role of fentanyl treatment and intervention.

Federal funding cuts discussed in the segment remain a potential outcome, not a confirmed loss.

BOB FERGUSON CREATES WASHINGTON FRAUD PREVENTION OFFICE

Governor Bob Ferguson announces an executive order creating Washington's first chief fraud prevention officer and statewide fraud prevention workgroup.

The initiative will initially focus on the Washington Health Care Authority, Department of Social and Health Services, Labor & Industries, and Department of Children, Youth, and Families.

Republican Senator Leonard Christian and Washington GOP Chairman Jim Walsh criticize the plan, questioning why existing agencies have not done more to investigate suspected fraud and protect taxpayer money.

The debate follows The Center Square's reporting on Washington child care subsidies and concerns about oversight of state-funded programs.

BRANDI KRUSE GIVES UPDATE ON PORTLAND THORNS INCIDENT

Undivided podcast host Brandi Kruse describes her experience being removed from a Portland Thorns soccer match after a confrontation involving XX-XY Athletics shirts.

Kruse says she has not received an explanation from the team or stadium security and discusses the physical impact of the encounter.

She also describes what she says she has heard about possible Department of Justice involvement.

WASHINGTON IN FOCUS DAILY

Watch The Center Square for reporting on Washington politics, Seattle homelessness, government spending, fraud prevention, public safety, elections and taxpayer accountability.

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#WashingtonNews #BobFerguson #KatieWilson #BrandiKruse #WashingtonPolitics

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Brandi Kruse Kicked Out of Portland Thorns + WA Paid Family Leave Payroll Tax Rises in 2027 Oct 26, 2026

Show notes

Brandi Kruse is forcibly escorted from a Portland Thorns soccer game following a confrontation over girls' sports activism. Washington election regulators suspend restrictions on large last-minute campaign donations. And Washington workers face another payroll premium increase in 2027.

On the October 26, 2026 episode of Washington In Focus Daily, The Center Square examines three major stories affecting Washington and the Pacific Northwest.

BRANDI KRUSE REMOVED FROM PORTLAND THORNS GAME

Undivided podcast host Brandi Kruse and other advocates wearing XX-XY shirts were involved in a confrontation at a Portland Thorns soccer match. Video shows security escorting Kruse from the stadium, while another attendee reports being pushed down stadium stairs.

The incident raises questions about stadium security, fan behavior and the ongoing debate over transgender participation in women's sports.

WASHINGTON SUSPENDS CAMPAIGN DONATION RESTRICTIONS

On October 22, the Washington Public Disclosure Commission announced that it would suspend enforcement of restrictions on certain large contributions made shortly before elections.

The decision affects contributions exceeding $75,000 to statewide campaigns and $7,500 to other campaigns under the specific provision at issue.

The move comes just days before Washington voters decide major ballot measures involving income taxes, parental rights and girls' sports.

WASHINGTON PAYROLL PREMIUM RISES IN 2027

Washington's Paid Family and Medical Leave program premium rate will rise to 1.2% of covered wages in 2027, triple its original 2019 rate of 0.4%.

Elizabeth New of the Washington Policy Center discusses concerns about higher payroll deductions, program costs and whether Washington lawmakers could consider additional changes.

WASHINGTON IN FOCUS DAILY

Watch The Center Square for independent reporting on Washington politics, elections, public safety, taxes, jobs, affordability and government accountability.

Get Washington state government and policy updates by text about twice a week. Text TCSWA to 206-944-3016.

#WashingtonNews #BrandiKruse #WashingtonPolitics #WashingtonTaxes #PortlandThorns

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WA Businesses Threaten to LEAVE Over New Income Tax + Swank BLASTS Plan to End Electing Sheriffs Oct 23, 2026

Show notes

Pierce County Sheriff Keith Swank is warning voters that a proposed charter amendment could end his term two years early and replace the elected sheriff with an appointed official. Meanwhile, Washington small businesses are raising concerns about the state's new 9.9% income tax, and student-athletes are speaking out in the debate over transgender participation in girls' sports.

In this October 23, 2026 episode of Washington In Focus Daily, The Center Square examines the Washington income tax repeal debate, potential business departures, the Pierce County sheriff election controversy, and the Camas Courage rally over girls' sports.

WASHINGTON INCOME TAX: SMALL BUSINESSES WARN OF JOB LOSSES

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) is raising concerns about Washington's new 9.9% income tax on income above $1 million.

Patrick Conner, NFIB's Washington state director, says small business owners are worried about the impact on hiring, expansion, investment and business competitiveness.

Conner discusses NFIB members who are considering moving operations to Idaho and other states because of Washington's tax and regulatory environment.

A recent analysis from the Washington Policy Center and Buckeye Institute projects approximately 18,000 fewer jobs than would otherwise exist if the income tax remains in place. That figure is a forecast from opponents of the tax, not jobs already lost.

The report also includes comments from Washington state Sen. Manka Dhingra, who defends the millionaires' tax and explains why labor unions are supporting the campaign against repeal.

The competing arguments highlight the stakes for Washington jobs, small businesses, workers, education funding and economic growth.

PIERCE COUNTY SHERIFF KEITH SWANK FIGHTS APPOINTMENT PROPOSAL

Pierce County voters will decide whether to change the sheriff's office from an elected position to an appointed one.

Under Charter Amendment 53, the county executive would appoint the sheriff, subject to county council confirmation.

The proposal could also end Sheriff Keith Swank's current term approximately two years early.

Swank argues that voters should retain the right to elect their sheriff and warns that the change could reduce the office's independence from county political leadership.

Supporters of appointed law enforcement leadership argue that police chiefs and other senior public safety officials are routinely selected through appointment rather than direct elections.

Pierce County voters will also consider a separate proposal to create a public safety ombuds office, with estimated annual costs reaching approximately $800,000.

The debate raises questions about voter rights, law enforcement accountability, county government and public safety oversight.

WASHINGTON GIRLS' SPORTS PROTEST GROWS

Student-athletes and supporters gathered at the Camas Courage rally in southwest Washington to discuss transgender participation in girls' school athletics.

The rally followed protests involving high school cross-country athletes who object to competing against a transgender girl.

Frances Stout, a Washington student-athlete who previously spoke publicly about transgender participation in girls' sports, addressed the rally and encouraged supporters to continue advocating for changes to school athletic eligibility rules.

Washington voters will decide a statewide girls' sports ballot measure in November.

Supporters argue that sex-based athletic categories are necessary for fairness, privacy and safety.

Opponents, including the No Hate in Washington campaign, argue that the proposed restrictions discriminate against transgender students and raise concerns about sex-verification requirements.

The disagreement has become a major issue in Washington's election campaign, drawing attention to student-athlete rights, transgender inclusion, school sports eligibility and parental concerns.

WASHINGTON ELECTION AND BALLOT RETURNS

The Center Square also examines early ballot return statistics from the Washington Secretary of State's office, including turnout among older voters and Pierce County residents.

Washington's November 3 election includes statewide ballot measures and local charter amendments affecting taxes, public safety and education policy.

WASHINGTON IN FOCUS DAILY — THE CENTER SQUARE

Subscribe for Washington state news covering government accountability, taxpayer spending, small businesses, elections, public safety, school policies and political developments.

Get important Washington government and policy updates by text about twice a week.

Text TCSWA to 206-944-3016 for Washington news updates.

#WashingtonNews #WashingtonIncomeTax #PierceCounty #KeithSwank #GirlsSports

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Katie Wilson's $183M Seattle Homelessness Plan + Democrats BREAK RANKS Over Girls' Sports Issue Oct 22, 2026

Show notes

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson is facing questions over a new homelessness strategy and $183 MILLION in planned city shelter spending for 2027, while a major girls' sports rally in Camas, Washington, draws hundreds amid growing political disagreement over transgender athletes competing in female school sports.

In the October 22, 2026 episode of Washington In Focus Daily, The Center Square examines Seattle's homelessness crisis, taxpayer spending, drug addiction, missed shelter goals, the Camas girls' sports controversy, and Washington's November election.

The episode features exclusive interviews with Washington Policy Center public safety expert Eric Zimmerman, Skyview High School athletes Sierra Retzlaff and Charlie Garrett, transgender advocate Plastic Martyr, and Brian Anderson of Democrats for an Informed Approach to Gender.

KATIE WILSON'S $183 MILLION SEATTLE HOMELESSNESS PLAN

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson has announced a new homelessness strategy modeled in part on approaches used in Denver and Houston.

Wilson cites reductions in unsheltered homelessness in those cities and says Seattle can expand its own Streets to Housing outreach initiative.

The mayor reports that 70 of 80 individuals contacted during an earlier Pioneer Square outreach effort entered shelter or permanent supportive housing.

Seattle plans to continue working with organizations including the Downtown Emergency Service Center, Purpose Dignity Action and the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) program.

Wilson is proposing another $18 million for shelter services, bringing planned city spending on those services to approximately $183 million in 2027.

SEATTLE MAYOR QUESTIONED OVER MISSED SHELTER GOALS

The Center Square presses Katie Wilson over her administration's missed 500-bed shelter goal ahead of the World Cup and the postponement of a 1,000-bed goal.

Wilson defends the city's progress, explaining that opening new shelter facilities requires site selection, permits, partnerships and development.

The exchange raises questions about Seattle homelessness spending, taxpayer accountability, shelter availability, encampment policies and whether the city's new strategy can produce lasting results.

WASHINGTON POLICY CENTER CRITICIZES SEATTLE'S DRUG POLICY

Eric Zimmerman, director of public safety solutions at the Washington Policy Center, sharply criticizes Seattle's approach to homelessness and drug addiction.

Zimmerman argues that Seattle needs stronger enforcement and addiction treatment measures rather than continued reliance on outreach and diversion programs.

He also questions whether Seattle can replicate results reported in Denver and Houston without adopting comparable public safety approaches.

The debate involves fentanyl, drug overdose deaths, homeless encampments, substance-use treatment, supportive housing and public safety policy.

CAMAS GIRLS' SPORTS RALLY DRAWS HUNDREDS

Hundreds gathered for the Camas Courage rally in southwest Washington following a cross-country controversy involving a transgender girl competing in the female category.

Student-athletes from Camas, Skyview and nearby schools have protested transgender participation in girls' races, raising concerns about fairness and competitive opportunities.

Skyview athletes Sierra Retzlaff and Charlie Garrett discuss their recent race and the encouragement they have received.

Sierra's father, Joel Retzlaff, also expresses support for his daughter while facing a school-property trespass restriction discussed in the report.

The rally comes as Washington voters consider a ballot measure that would restrict transgender participation in girls' school sports.

DEMOCRAT BREAKS WITH PARTY OVER GIRLS' SPORTS

Brian Anderson, Washington state director of Democrats for an Informed Approach to Gender, argues that Democratic politicians are not adequately representing voters who support restrictions on transgender participation in girls' sports.

Anderson says the issue should not be treated as exclusively Republican or conservative and expresses support for the female athletes who protested.

The Center Square also interviews transgender actress and advocate Plastic Martyr, who criticizes Republicans for what she describes as a manufactured political controversy and warns against discrimination toward transgender students.

These opposing perspectives highlight divisions over transgender rights, female athletics, WIAA eligibility rules and Washington education policy.

Washington voters will decide these questions in the November 3 election.

Get important Washington government and policy news by text. Text TCSWA to 206-944-3016 for updates about twice a week.

#WashingtonNews #KatieWilson #SeattleHomelessness #GirlsSports #CamasHighSchool

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$15 Billion Interstate Bridge Faces Federal Lawsuit + Trump Admin Presses Ferguson Over Tax Credits Oct 21, 2026

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A $15 BILLION Washington-Oregon Interstate Bridge Replacement project faces a new federal lawsuit, U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon presses Governor Bob Ferguson over federal school scholarship tax credits, and a major girls' sports rally is planned in Camas following a controversial high school cross-country protest.

In today's Washington In Focus Daily (October 21, 2026), The Center Square examines three major developments involving Washington infrastructure spending, education funding, school choice, transgender athletes and state government accountability.

$15 BILLION INTERSTATE BRIDGE REPLACEMENT FACES FEDERAL LAWSUIT

The controversial Interstate Bridge Replacement project connecting Vancouver, Washington, and Portland, Oregon, faces a federal lawsuit from Iron Partners LLC, a Columbia River industrial business challenging the project's proposed fixed-span bridge design.

The lawsuit alleges that federal transportation agencies failed to adequately evaluate environmental impacts and navigation restrictions associated with the proposed 116-foot vertical clearance. The company argues that the new bridge could restrict industrial activity and marine navigation on the Columbia River.

Washington State Representative John Ley discusses the lawsuit, the project's estimated $13 billion to $15 billion cost, proposed light rail between Portland and Vancouver, and approximately $141 million in mitigation payments negotiated with four upriver businesses.

Could the federal lawsuit delay construction currently planned for 2028? What does the legal challenge mean for Washington taxpayers, Clark County businesses, Columbia River shipping and the future of the Interstate 5 bridge replacement?

LINDA McMAHON PRESSES BOB FERGUSON OVER FEDERAL SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIPS

U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon visited Spokane, Washington, alongside Congressman Michael Baumgartner to promote the federal Education Freedom Tax Credit and urge Governor Bob Ferguson to opt Washington into the program.

The federal school scholarship tax credit would allow qualifying taxpayers to receive a tax credit of up to $1,700 for contributions to scholarship-granting organizations. Scholarships could support private school tuition, tutoring, special education services and other qualifying educational expenses.

According to figures discussed by the Washington Policy Center, participation could generate more than $700 million annually for scholarships in Washington. Democrats for Education Reform has offered a higher estimate exceeding $1.5 billion under its assumptions.

Supporters argue the program could expand school choice, parental options and educational opportunities without redirecting existing public school funding. Opponents, including the Washington Education Association and State Superintendent Chris Reykdal, have raised concerns about the program's potential effects on public education.

McMahon is urging Washington to participate as the federal scholarship program approaches its 2027 start.

CAMAS GIRLS' SPORTS PROTEST SPARKS RALLY AND STATEWIDE DEBATE

A girls' sports rally is scheduled in Camas, Washington, following a cross-country meet where several female athletes refused to compete in a race involving a transgender girl.

The Camas Courage Rally is drawing attention from student athletes, Washington lawmakers and national media as the debate over transgender participation in girls' school sports continues.

Tumwater High School athlete Francis Scott speaks out in support of the protesting runners and criticizes Washington Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal over the state's approach to transgender athletes.

Camas School District Superintendent Dr. John Anzalone explains that the district follows Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) eligibility policies governing transgender student athletes.

Washington voters are also preparing to decide a ballot measure that would restrict transgender participation in girls' school sports, adding another dimension to the controversy ahead of the November 3 election.

WATCH WASHINGTON IN FOCUS DAILY

Subscribe to The Center Square for independent reporting on Washington state government, taxpayer spending, infrastructure projects, education policy, public safety, elections and government accountability.

📱 Get important Washington government and policy updates by text, about twice a week. Text TCSWA to 206-944-3016.

#WashingtonNews #InterstateBridgeReplacement #LindaMcMahon #CamasHighSchool #WashingtonPolitics

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