News from the Caucus

Washington State’s latest economic forecast, released by the Economic & Revenue Forecast Council (ERFC), paints a cautious picture for the months and years ahead. Over the past year, the state’s employment growth has been extremely slow, rising by only 0.1%, far below the national average of 1%. Most industries are shrinking, with government and healthcare...

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...

Washington’s latest revenue forecast just came out—and it’s a wake-up call. Tracy Ellis explains.

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Courtesy of the Washington State Senate As summer winds down, I’m proud to share the latest from my work as Washington’s representative in the Western Energy Caucus (WEC)—a bipartisan regional coalition addressing critical energy challenges across the West. This June, I was honored to be selected for the inaugural WEC cohort due...

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Courtesy of the Washington State Senate I’m honored to participate in the Northwest Renewable Hydrogen Conference this September, joining fellow policymakers as a featured speaker in the “Leading from the Legislature: Hydrogen Policy Champions” session. The Renewable Hydrogen Alliance is a respected coalition advocating for renewable hydrogen, emissions-free fuel produced by splitting...

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Courtesy of the Washington State Senate As part of my ongoing efforts in the Senate Environment, Energy & Technology Committee, I’ve been actively supporting sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), which are a critical tool for both environmental stewardship and economic growth across Washington. Earlier this year, I co-sponsored ESSB 5447, which was signed...

Washington’s budget outlook is grim: spending surged, reserves dwindled, and tax hikes hit families and businesses. Republicans urge fiscal restraint, program audits, and no new taxes.

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]  

A state senator is outraged that Washington might let the ‘South Hill Rapist’ walk free. Tracy Ellis reports.

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]

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]

Sen. John Braun joins The Lars Larson Show to explain Medicaid reforms and critique Washington’s budget, healthcare taxes, and carbon program—calling for accountability and an end to political fearmongering.