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

April 30, 2026
Matt Boehnke

Staying connected, AI oversight, and strengthening our energy future

Dear Friends and Neighbors, As we move further into the year, you will not receive additional updates from my legislative office. Election-year restrictions limit certain communications and require a clear line between official legislative work and campaign activity. This will be the last formal update until after the November election. That doesn’t change who I...
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April 25, 2026
Matt Boehnke

Town hall recap, newsletter, and transportation update for the 8th District

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Thank you to everyone who came out to our recent 8th District town hall. I appreciate you taking the time to be there, ask questions, and stay engaged. We covered a lot — some of it easy, some of it not. I appreciated hearing directly from you about the pressures you’re...
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February 02, 2026
Matt Boehnke

Protecting our neighborhoods as LRA placements are proposed

First, I want to thank the families and community members who joined us last Monday night in Kennewick for the town hall on the proposed less restrictive alternative (LRA) placement. I was encouraged by the strong turnout and deeply appreciate everyone who took the time to show up, ask questions, and share personal concerns. When...
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January 28, 2026
Matt Boehnke

Legislative update from Olympia

The 2026 legislative session is well underway, and work is moving quickly in Olympia. As key decisions begin to take shape, I want to keep you informed about what’s happening at the Capitol, what I’m working on, and how the priorities of the 8th Legislative District are guiding my work. The 8th District is home...
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September 24, 2025
Keith Goehner

Apply now for the 2026 Legislative Internship Program

Sen. Keith Goehner/R-Dryden/Credit: Washington State Senate One of the best opportunities the Legislature offers each year is the chance for college students to serve as legislative interns. This program places students directly at the heart of the lawmaking process, providing them with real-world experience, professional skills, and a front-row seat to how decisions are made...
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September 24, 2025
Keith Goehner

12th District residents take the lead in shaping state policy

Sen. Goehner, R-Dryden, at Beef Day on the Hill at the Washington State Capitol, April 9, 2025. This past legislative session, citizens across Washington demonstrated the power of public engagement like never before. With remote testimony now a permanent option, residents can weigh in on bills that affect their families, farms, and businesses, without ever...
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