News from the Caucus
The Elephant in the Dome Podcast: Workers vs. Woke – Sen. John Braun on what Republicans really stand for when it comes to working Washingtonians
Senate Republican Leader John Braun breaks down Washington’s labor policies—from public union influence to wage mandates—arguing for worker-first reforms rooted in conservative principles without the progressive spin. [TRANSCRIPT]
Read More
The Elephant in the Dome Podcast: Fairness in Sports, Food Access, and Forest Stewardship: A Triple Challenge for Washington
Senator John Braun discusses fairness in girls’ sports, Kroger store closures tied to regulations and theft, and the need for responsible forest management to protect public lands and rural economies in this episode of The Elephant in the Dome. [TRANSCRIPT]
Read More
The Elephant in the Dome Podcast: It’s the Economy: Housing, Tech, & Taxes in Turbulent Times
Senator John Braun unpacks Washington’s economic challenges—from housing shortages and tech industry tensions to energy concerns and historic tax hikes. What’s driving the downturn, and what can be done? ‘It’s the economy stupid’ in this episode of The Elephant in the Dome Podcast. [TRANSCRIPT]
Read More
The Elephant in the Dome Podcast – Accountability & Reform: Medicaid, Car Thefts, and Juvenile Justice
Senator John Braun breaks down evolving questions around Medicaid changes, celebrates steep drops in auto thefts, and confronts serious concerns at Green Hill’s juvenile facility in this candid episode of The Elephant in the Dome. [TRANSCRIPT]
Read More
The Elephant in the Dome Podcast – Braun’s Big Beautiful Bill Breakdown
Senator John Braun responds to Governor Ferguson’s harsh criticism of the federal “Big Beautiful Bill.” While the governor warns of devastating impacts to health care, food assistance, clean energy, and rural hospitals, Braun argues that the bill introduces thoughtful reforms that improve accountability, affordability, and support for vulnerable groups. He emphasizes that most changes target...
Read More
The Elephant in the Dome Podcast: Gov. Ferguson’s First Big Test: What He Signed, Vetoed, and Didn’t
Senate Republican Leader John Braun reacts to Governor Bob Ferguson’s bill signings, a surprising veto, and the policies he let stand. From tax hikes to housing studies, police funding to rent control, we break down what made the cut—and what didn’t—in his first legislative session as governor.
Read More
The Elephant in the Dome Podcast: Post-Session Recap: Taxes, Transparency & Tension in Olympia
With the legislative session officially over, Senate Republican Leader John Braun unpacks the whirlwind of budget debates, tax hikes, and behind-the-scenes maneuvering. From killing harmful proposals to pushing back on rent control, Medicaid cuts, and unemployment benefits for striking workers—and will the new governor whittle down a budget many say is bloated?
Read More
The Elephant in the Dome Podcast: Session Closes: Taxes, Public Safety, and Education Updates
As the Legislative Session ends, Senate Republican Leader John Braun unpacks key issues: tax debates, rent control, unemployment benefits for striking workers, public safety strides, and challenges in education policy.
Read More
The Elephant in the Dome Podcast: Democrat Taxes, Taxes, and more Taxes and Rent Control
Senate Republican Leader John Braun, on “The Elephant in the Dome,” criticized Democrats’ $18 billion tax proposals, including property and sales tax hikes. He warned of economic risks, business exodus, and fiscal mismanagement. Braun also discussed rent control and transparency concerns in budgeting.
Read More
The Elephant in the Dome Podcast: Property Taxes & Rent Control—The Unintended Consequences
Senate Republican Leader John Braun discusses concerns over proposed property tax increases and rent control, featuring voices from homeowners, renters, and landlords. He examines economic impacts, the housing crisis, and the broader effects on businesses and essential services.
Read More
The Elephant in the Dome Podcast—State Leadership in Focus—Treasurer, Governor, & Attorney General
Senator John Braun shares his thoughts on some of Washington’s statewide leaders in this episode of “The Elephant in the Dome.” From the Treasurer’s warnings about the rainy day fund to the Governor’s cautious stance on taxation and spending, the discussion highlights key policy debates. Plus, criticism of the Attorney General’s litigious approach and its...
Read More
The Elephant in the Dome Podcast: The True Cost of Washington’s Tax Hikes
Senate Republican Leader John Braun breaks down Olympia’s latest tax proposals, from property tax hikes to new fees on outdoor recreation. With over $20 billion in increases at stake, learn how these changes could hit homeowners, renters, and businesses—and what they mean for Washington’s housing crisis.
Read More
1
2