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Disclaimer: This transcript has been edited for clarity and brevity. It may not reflect the exact wording of the original recording.
Tracy Ellis:
Welcome to The Elephant in the Dome, the official podcast of the Washington State Senate Republican Caucus. I’m Tracy Ellis, joined by Senate Republican Leader John Braun.
Tracy:
Bill Gates recently made headlines with a memo that suggests a shift in his stance on climate change. It’s also getting really expensive to eat out in Washington. Let’s start with Gates—what did his memo say, and why is it significant?
Sen. John Braun:
At a high level, Gates acknowledged that the climate crisis may not be the immediate existential threat it’s often portrayed as. He’s following the data and adjusting his views, which I respect. But it’s late. Policies driven by exaggerated fears—like the Climate Commitment Act—have made Washington one of the most unaffordable states in the country. We’re seeing higher fuel costs, energy bills, and impacts on schools, businesses, and homes.
Tracy:
It sounds like Gates is shifting toward helping people more directly. Is that your read?
Braun:
Absolutely. His new focus aligns with what Republicans have been saying for years: affordability matters. Luxury beliefs from wealthy individuals like Gates don’t reflect the reality for average Washingtonians. These policies are hurting people—some are leaving the state, others are racking up debt or slipping into poverty.
Tracy:
Some critics say Republicans don’t care about the environment. What do you say to that?
Braun:
That’s nonsense. We care deeply about the environment—we just want science-based, sustainable solutions. Climate policies must be affordable and effective. The Climate Commitment Act, for example, isn’t reducing carbon meaningfully. It’s collecting billions and funneling money to special interests.
Tracy:
Can the Climate Commitment Act be improved, even if it can’t be repealed?
Braun:
Yes. First, we need transparency—people deserve to know where the money’s going and whether it’s reducing carbon. So far, the cost per ton of carbon reduction is far higher than other methods. We could get better results for less.
Tracy:
Could that money be used to avoid raising taxes?
Braun:
Definitely. My top choice would be to return it to taxpayers through the Working Families Tax Credit. It’s already authorized under the Climate Commitment Act. Democrats resisted this idea, even though it’s in their own bill. We could also use the funds for transportation or salmon restoration—priorities they claim to support.
Tracy:
Speaking of affordability, a new study shows Washington is the most expensive state to dine out. What’s driving that?
Braun:
It’s a combination of high taxes, regulations, and labor costs. Restaurants are struggling. We’ve seen closures, and people are cutting back. This mirrors broader affordability issues—childcare, housing, healthcare, gas. Washington ranks near the top in cost of living.
Tracy:
What can the legislature do to help restaurants?
Braun:
Start by doing less harm—stop adding taxes and regulations. A tip exemption for minimum wage would help. Studies show servers in lower-wage states like Idaho often earn more through tips. Lowering costs encourages tipping and keeps restaurants viable.
Tracy:
Food costs are also rising. Can anything be done?
Braun:
Transportation is the biggest factor. Fuel and energy costs are driving up prices across the board. Addressing those would help restaurants, small businesses, and families.
Tracy:
Do you see any hope for bipartisan solutions?
Braun:
I’m optimistic. We’ve seen Democrats reverse course on public safety. Now they’re talking about affordability. If they’re serious, they’ll acknowledge their policies created this crisis and work with us to fix it. Republicans will keep pushing for real solutions.
Tracy:
That’s Senate Republican Leader John Braun. I’m Tracy Ellis. Thanks for listening to The Elephant in the Dome, the official podcast of the Washington State Senate Republican Caucus.