The Elephant in the Dome Podcast: Is Democracy Under Attack in Washington?

Jan 22, 2026

In this episode of *The Elephant in the Dome Podcast*, Senate Republican Leader John Braun is joined by Senators Keith Wagoner and Jeff Wilson to discuss two controversial proposals in Olympia: restrictions on Washington’s initiative process and a bill that could allow unelected boards to remove elected sheriffs. Are these measures protecting democracy—or undermining it? Topics include:

  • Why the initiative process matters to Washington voters
  • Concerns about voter suppression and signature gathering
  • The proposed “anti-sheriff” bill and its impact on rural communities
  • What these debates reveal about power and representation in our state