News
AUDIO: Braun: Auditor’s report reveals ‘systemic failure’ and misplaced priorities at DCYF
A new state audit is raising serious concerns about how Washington oversees childcare funding. Tracy Ellis reports.
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AUDIO: Senate Republicans call income tax historic but unnecessary, unconstitutional; urge veto
Both Republicans and Democrats agree on one aspect of today’s (Mon) bill signing establishing a Washington income tax: it’s historic. Tracy Ellis reports.
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AUDIO: Dozier gives credit to community after state drops effort to close Prescott School District
Think about what it would be like for your school district to suddenly face closure. A state legislator says families in Prescott lived through that exact fear. Tracy Ellis explains.
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Leaving Washington: Myth, Reality, and the IRS Data Behind It—The Elephant in the Dome Podcast
Washington is losing residents and income at a pace lawmakers can’t ignore. Senate Republican Leader John Braun breaks down IRS migration data, rising costs, new taxes, and why businesses and families are reconsidering their future in the state. He also discusses ExitWA and shares a message of hope and engagement. TRANSCRIPT
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AUDIO: Sen. Matt Boehnke bill signed into law to streamline financial aid tracking
If you’ve ever tried to track a college financial aid application, you know it can feel like a maze. A new Washington law aims to make that process a lot clearer for students and families. Tracy Ellis reports.
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A ‘Train Wreck’ for Washington? Inside the 2026 Legislative Session
Washington’s 2026 legislative session ended with a historic income tax proposal, an $80 billion state budget, and major fights over agriculture, law enforcement, and business regulation. Senate Republican Leader John Braun joins Elephant in the Dome to explain what passed, what Republicans stopped, and what it could mean for Washington’s economy. Topics include: Washington income...
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AUDIO: Sen. Keith Goehner Reflects on Washington’s Legislative Session and Budget Concerns on KPQ’s The Agenda
Sen. Keith Goehner joins KPQ to discuss Washington’s 2026 legislative session, highlighting budget deficits, new taxes, pension shifts, and limits on public input. He addresses impacts on education, agriculture, energy policy, and county governments while stressing the need for accountability, sustainable spending, and meaningful engagement with constituents.
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AUDIO: Sen. Matt Boehnke bill protecting Washingtonians from AI deepfakes signed into law
A new Washington law aims to keep artificial intelligence from stealing your identity. Tracy Ellis explains.
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AUDIO: Legislative update with State Senate Republican Leader John Braun – Income Tax Passage Raises Legal and Voter Concerns
Sen. John Braun discusses the newly passed income tax, predicting legal challenges and criticizing constraints on voter input. He argues the measure violates the state constitution and says the initiative-only path will confuse voters and undermine a clear public decision on the tax.
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AUDIO: 9th District Legislative update with State Senator Mark Schoesler – House Income Tax Debate Highlights Broader Tax Policy Critiques
Sen. Mark Schoesler highlights concerns about expanding tax burdens and questions legislative priorities, citing changes in the working families tax credit and universal free school meals. He argues these policies broaden costs and illustrate deeper issues in current tax and budget decisions.
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AUDIO: Historic Income Tax and Budget – 2026 Legislative Session
Historic tax and spending measures highlighted Washington’s 2026 legislative session. Tracy Ellis reports.
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The Elephant in the Dome: Budget Battles & Washington’s Fiscal Future: Income Tax, Deficits, Doom Loops
Senate Republican Leader John Braun and Senator Chris Gildon break down Washington’s newly released budget, long‑term deficits, and the impacts of the income tax. They warn of structural instability, spending growth, and economic risks they say could drive Washington toward a fiscal “doom loop.” TRANSCRIPT
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