News from the Caucus

AUDIO: State Senate Democrats passed a budget that includes the largest tax increase in state history after rejecting a responsible, no-new-taxes, no-cuts proposal from Senate Republicans. Tracy Ellis reports.     VIDEO:  

Sen. John Braun criticizes Democrats’ $21B tax plan, including wealth, payroll, and property tax hikes. He warns of a $1B annual property tax increase within three years, burdening homeowners amid a housing crisis.

Your city, county, and state property taxes could soon rise as fast as inflation—Tracy Ellis explains how you can fight back.

If you hunt or fish in our state, pay attention: A bill just passed the Senate and is now in the House that would hike license fees by 38%. Tracy Ellis reports.

Legislative Republicans opposed new taxes in WA’s Democrat budget, citing harm to jobs and families. They called for fiscal restraint, transparency, and reforms, while highlighting their alternative budget focusing on safety and education without tax hikes. Concerns over spending increases were emphasized.

The budget battle in Olympia heats up. Top Senate Republicans say the Democrats’ spending plan underscores a clash of values—what’s prioritized, and who pays the price. Tracy Ellis has more.

March Madness isn’t just for basketball—Republicans say it’s happening in Olympia too. Tracy Ellis explains.

Sen John Braun recaps week 9 of the Legislative Session, highlighting wins on public safety and housing, and progress on special education funding. He warns against tax increases and stresses the need for better outcomes in K-12 education

On the Jason Rantz Show, State Senator Chris Gildon discusses the budget realities facing Washington. With a clear stance against new taxes, Gildon outlines how education funding can be preserved, fiscal responsibility achieved, and collective bargaining agreements reimagined. He emphasizes accountability, innovation, and solutions rooted in economic pragmatism.

Budget shortfall and $ave Washington Budget—Senate Republican Leader John Braun explains how the state’s budget shortfall is closer to $6.6 billion—not $15 billion—because of spending choices, not existing services. He outlines a balanced plan with no cuts to K-12 education or vital services for vulnerable residents.

Sen. Chris Gildon told KVI’s John Carlson that the Senate Republican budget balances without new taxes or major cuts. It preserves teacher bonuses, limits certain program growth, and offers state workers a $5K bonus instead of $4B in raises. Gildon urges public support.

Washington’s juvenile justice facilities are overcrowded and dangerous — but a bill that just passed the state Senate could help. Tracy Ellis explains.