Leadership Blog

In the News

VIDEO: Senator Jeff Wilson on Longview tank explosion

Published on June 04, 2026
KIRO 7: Longview leaders react to no regulatory inspections of white liquor tanks KOIN 6: Longview community’s future discussed by Senator Jeff Wilson
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AUDIO: As summer heat looms, Warnick pushes for wildfire insurance transparency and central Washington water security

Published on June 03, 2026
With the summer heat kicking in, Central Washington is bracing for drought—but a state senator says water is only half the battle. Tracy Ellis explains.
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The Elephant in the Dome Podcast: Is Washington Misdiagnosing the Homeless Crisis? | Jonathan Choe & Sen. Chris Gildon

Published on June 03, 2026
Is housing really the solution to Washington’s homelessness crisis? Senator Chris Gildon and investigative journalist Jonathan Choe discuss why “Housing First” models are failing. They explore the impact of fentanyl, the lack of taxpayer accountability, and why treating addiction as a mental illness is the only way forward for Washington state. Transcript: The Elephant in...
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AUDIO: Governor should explain why temporary gas-price relief isn’t worth considering

Published on June 02, 2026
A state Senator says families deserve an honest talk about why Washington gas prices are some of the highest in America. Tracy Ellis explains.
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AUDIO: Longview senator calls for thorough, transparent state investigation of deadly spill

Published on May 27, 2026
In the wake of a catastrophic tank collapse that turned deadly, the focus in Longview and in the state legislature is shifting toward the search for answers. Tracy Ellis tells us a Senator wants a full accounting from the state.
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News

March 07, 2026
Senate Republican Caucus

AUDIO: Conversation with Governor: Braun Discusses Child Safety and Legislative Gridlock in this legislative update

Senate Republican Leader John Braun describes his recent meeting with the governor. Braun raises concerns about rising fentanyl‑related child deaths and stalled child‑protection bills in the Legislature. He notes bipartisan Senate support for action but says key House committee members are blocking progress.
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March 07, 2026
Senate Republican Caucus

AUDIO: The connection between budget risks and income tax uncertainty: Sen. Schoesler’s legislative update

Senator Mark Schoesler outlines concerns about the state’s proposed income tax and the significant differences between budget plans in the Legislature. He warns that relying on one‑time funds, unrealistic growth assumptions, and a likely court challenge creates serious long‑term fiscal risk, leaving future lawmakers accountable for today’s decisions.
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March 07, 2026
Senate Republican Caucus

AUDIO: Washington Income Tax Debate: John Braun Discusses Legislative Impacts with Lars Larson

Senator John Braun outlines concerns about Washington’s proposed income tax, arguing it would burden small and medium sized businesses, harm competitiveness, and create budget risks. He and Lars Larson discuss legislative dynamics, potential legal challenges, and the likelihood voters would reject the tax if allowed a direct say.
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March 07, 2026
Senate Republican Caucus

AUDIO: Proposed income tax still a bad deal for Washington despite House changes, Senate Republicans say

Washington State Democrats appear to have a deal on a new income tax that Republicans say is unconstitutional, unnecessary, unfair and unpopular. Tracy Ellis reports.
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March 06, 2026
Senate Republican Caucus

AUDIO: Senators Shelly Short and Judy Warnick Discuss Key Legislative Issues on KPQ’s Legislative Hotline

An update from Senators Shelly Short and Judy Warnick on legislative topics, including license plate replacements, data center policy, transmission planning, wildfire‑fighting funds, and state budget negotiations. The senators also address speculation about delaying the proposed income tax as the legislative session nears its end.
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March 05, 2026
Senate Republican Caucus

AUDIO: Sen. Matt Boehnke raises concerns after Senate votes to repeal Community Protection Program

The state Senate approved a bill ending a program that serves people with developmental disabilities who also have violent or sexual histories. Tracy Ellis explains. The House had already passed the bill and now must agree to the Senate’s changes before it moves forward.
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March 05, 2026
Senate Republican Caucus

The Elephant in the Dome Podcast: Washington Income Tax Showdown? Braun Reveals What Happened in Governor Meeting

As Washington lawmakers enter the final stretch of the legislative session, Senate Republican Leader John Braun discusses a recent meeting with Governor Ferguson and the growing debate over a proposed state income tax. In this episode of Elephant in the Dome, Braun shares what was discussed in the meeting, where negotiations stand, and why Republicans...
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March 03, 2026
Senate Republican Caucus

AUDIO: Wilson bill promoting kit homes is sent to governor

Kit homes — those precut, affordable little houses that used to be ordered out of catalogs — are getting a modern revival. Tracy Ellis explains.
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March 03, 2026
Senate Republican Caucus

AUDIO: KOZI RADIO: Senator Shelly Short Discusses Budget, Wildfire Preparedness, Data Center Policy, and more

Senator Shelly Short joins KOZI Radio to discuss the state budget, the proposed income tax, restored wildfire funding, and debates over regulating data centers. She also previews the final days of the legislative session and encourages constituents to stay engaged and connected.
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March 02, 2026
Senate Republican Caucus

AUDIO: Live from Olympia on Okanogan Country Radio: Budget Battles, Income Tax Fight, and Local Wins with Sen. Shelly Short & Rep. Andrew Engell

Sen. Shelly Short and Rep. Andrew Engell break down state budgets, the income tax fight, rural hospital support, wildfire funding, transportation investments, and major bills affecting the 7th District. Plus, insights from a recent telephone town hall and youth engagement in the legislative process.
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February 28, 2026
Senate Republican Caucus

AUDIO: Sen. Keith Goehner Discusses Budget Deadlines, Income Tax Proposal, and Local Issues in KPQ Interview

Sen. Keith Goehner joins KPQ to discuss budget deadlines, revenue concerns, and the proposed income tax. He updates listeners on key bills, local law‑enforcement authority, and feedback from a recent town hall. Goehner also highlights the Apple Blossom Royalty’s visit as the legislative session enters its final weeks.
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February 28, 2026
Senate Republican Caucus

AUDIO: Senate Republican Leader Update: Income‑Tax Impacts on Four‑Year Budget

Senator John Braun explains how the proposed income tax is built into four‑year budget planning, bringing in nearly $3 billion before it would be collected in 2029. He raises concerns about implementation, including the need to build an entirely new tax‑administration system, and doubts it can be done in time.
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