News from the Caucus

Sen. Chris Gildon, R-Puyallup, reports from the state Capitol on the opening of the 2026 legislative session and the important decisions facing lawmakers.

9th District Sen. Mark Schoesler talks about the opening week of the 2026 legislative session, including Gov. Bob Ferguson’s State of the State address and concerns about agriculture in Washington.

Are Democrats in Washington enacting an income tax? Yes. Legislative Democrats, who are in the majority, are preparing to drop two income tax bills — one in the Senate and one in the House of Representatives. An income tax on anyone WILL become an income tax on everyone. And the voters in Washington have rejected...

Sen. Shelly Short says Democrats plan to pass an income tax without voter approval and predicts a court challenge. She also opposes SB 5974, calling it the worst bill she’s seen, as it allows an unelected board to remove elected sheriffs over enforcement disagreements.

Senate Republican Leader John Braun says the governor’s speech catered to Democratic talking points and undermined law and order by encouraging state laws that defy federal rules, calling such actions unconstitutional and harmful.

Sen. Drew MacEwen on KMAS Radio reacts to the Governor’s address, raising concerns about taxes, rising costs, and education funding. He also weighs in on public safety, governance proposals, and the real-world impacts of legislative decisions during this short session.

Too many kids of disabled veterans are losing out on college tuition benefits—not because they didn’t earn them, but, as Tracy Ellis explains, because of red tape.

On The Elephant in the Dome podcast, Senate Republican Leader John Braun unpacks the governor’s State of the State address, income tax proposals, public safety challenges, transportation funding issues, the importance of transparency, and why debates should focus on ideas—not individuals. TRANSCRIPT

In a KPQ radio interview, Sen. Keith Goehner addresses Washington’s budget deficit, concerns over changes to the initiative process, and proposed legislation impacting local law enforcement. He emphasizes fiscal responsibility, public voice in governance, and respect for local control.

Concerned about wolves wiping out deer and elk? Washington lawmakers are taking it up Monday—and you can have your say. Tracy Ellis reports.

Sen. John Braun criticized limiting access to child care records, saying it erodes trust in government.

Sen. Leonard Christian joins Ari Hoffman to react to the governor’s address, discuss concerns over spending and proposed taxes, and highlight his push for transparency and accountability in DCYF oversight—all with his trademark humor.