Home - Senate Republican Caucus

#UnaffordableWA

Washington Can’t Afford It

Every law has a cost. Families should come first | Cost of living above national average | One of the most expensive states for housing | Consistently among the nation’s top three highest gas prices, about a dollar above the national average

#UnaffordableWA

Unpopular, Unconstitutional | Democrats are pushing SB 6346, a 9.9% income tax on earnings over $1 million | They call it “fair,” but history shows income taxes always expand | This is the most significant tax proposal in decades | It was rushed through with limited public notice

#UnaffordableWA

Lives Lost, Billions Paid

The Costly Toll of State Negligence | Mismanagement by state agencies has played a role in the deaths and near-deaths of many Washington children, and put other residents at risk.

#UnaffordableWA

#UnaffordableWA

Lives Lost, Billions Paid

#UnaffordableWA

Washington Can’t Afford It

#UnaffordableWA

Lives Lost, Billions Paid

#UnaffordableWA

Washington Can’t Afford It

#UnaffordableWA

Senators

20th District | Centralia

View Senator Page

Republican Leader

20th District | Centralia

13th District | Moses Lake

View Senator Page

Republican Caucus Chair

13th District | Moses Lake

39th District | Sedro-Woolley

View Senator Page

Republican Whip

39th District | Sedro-Woolley

7th District | Addy

View Senator Page

Republican Floor Leader

7th District | Addy

19th District | Longview

View Senator Page

19th District | Longview

Leonard Christian

4th District | Spokane Valley

View Senator Page

Leonard Christian

4th District | Spokane Valley

31st District | Auburn

View Senator Page

31st District | Auburn

25th District | Puyallup

View Senator Page

OPERATING BUDGET LEADER

25th District | Puyallup

10th District | Oak Harbor

View Senator Page

Vice Caucus Chair

10th District | Oak Harbor

2nd District | Graham

View Senator Page

2nd District | Graham

16th District | Waitsburg

View Senator Page

16th District | Waitsburg

14th District | Yakima

View Senator Page

Transportation Budget Leader

14th District | Yakima

12th District | Dryden

View Senator Page

12th District | Dryden

15th District | Pasco

View Senator Page

Deputy Floor Leader

15th District | Pasco

35th District | Shelton

View Senator Page

35th District | Shelton

6th District | Spokane

View Senator Page

6th District | Spokane

17th District | Vancouver

View Senator Page

17th District | Vancouver

9th District | Ritzville

View Senator Page

Capital Budget Leader

9th District | Ritzville

8th District | Kennewick

Sen. Matt Boehnke is serving his first term representing the 8th Legislative District in the State Senate after serving two terms in the Washington House of Representatives.

View Senator Page

8th District | Kennewick

ExitWA

For decades, Washington attracted more people and more income than it lost. But that trend has now reversed. For the second year in a row, more income has left the state than arrived. And for the third year in a row, IRS data shows Washington is losing more taxpayers to migration than it gains.

Are you moving from Washington? Tell us more.

The People’s Initiatives

Giving parents a voice and protecting fairness in girls’ sports

Initiative IL26-001 – Restoring Parental Rights in Schools—It recognizes parents as the primary stakeholders in their children’s upbringing
Initiative IL26-638 – Protecting Fairness in Girls’ Sports—This initiative aims to protect the integrity of girls’ interscholastic sports

Top Stories

Elephant in the Dome Podcast: Cost of Food: Senators Braun & Muzzall on Affordability & Agriculture

Elephant in the Dome Podcast: Cost of Food: Senators Braun & Muzzall on Affordability & Agriculture

Feb 12, 2026

Senators John Braun and Ron Muzzall discuss why Washington’s food prices keep climbing. From labor and fuel costs to taxes and regulations, they reveal how policies impact farmers, grocery stores, and families—and why affordability should be a legislative priority. An...

Social Media

Facebook

Washington State Senate Republican Caucus

5 days ago

BREAKING: Former AG Rob McKenna expected to lead the charge against the Income Tax in court ... See MoreSee Less

View on Facebook

Washington State Senate Republican Caucus

5 days ago

BREAKING: Former Washington State Attorney General Rob McKenna and the Citizens Action Defense Fund will be challenging the unconstitutional Income Tax from the far left and special interests immediately.WA voters have rejected an Income Tax many times.Seattle Red: ow.ly/hqMu50YAQjI#noincometax #GovernmentGreed #StopTheGreed #WaLeg ... See MoreSee Less

View on Facebook

Washington State Senate Republican Caucus

5 days ago

BREAKING: Gov. Bob Ferguson signs the Income Tax (SB 6346) into law. Immediate legal challenges are filed. ... See MoreSee Less

View on Facebook

YouTube

WashingtonSRC

Video updates from Washington State Senate Republican Caucus members.

Washington now has a new income tax set to take effect in 2028. But questions remain about how the state manages the money it already collects.

In this episode of Elephant in the Dome, host Tracy Ellis sits down with Senate Republican Leader John Braun to discuss a troubling state audit involving the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families, rising government bureaucracy, and the growing cost of lawsuits against the state.

They also discuss whether Bob Ferguson can bring accountability and efficiency to state government after years under Jay Inslee.

Topics include:
• Washington’s new income tax
• Fraud and overpayments in state programs
• Growth of government bureaucracy
• Lawsuits costing taxpayers hundreds of millions
• Problems at Green Hill School
• Can government accountability improve?

Subscribe for more discussions about policy, politics, and the decisions shaping Washington State.
________________________________________
00:00 Intro – Income tax signed into law
00:19 When the tax takes effect and legal challenges
00:31 Why Washington keeps facing “budget crises”
01:03 State audit raises concerns about fraud
02:02 DCYF oversight problems and staffing priorities
03:52 Fraud vs. accountability in government
05:02 Why taxpayers are frustrated
06:02 Agency response: asking for more money
06:30 Growth of bureaucracy in state government
07:19 School administration vs. teachers
08:27 Problems at DCYF and failing systems
09:02 Lawsuits costing taxpayers hundreds of millions
10:21 The human cost behind government failures
11:19 Government growth despite budget shortfalls
11:49 Can Governor Ferguson improve things?
13:07 Leadership and accountability challenges
13:59 Green Hill School problems
15:22 Crime policy and juvenile justice debate
16:04 Is there indifference to fraud and crime?
17:20 Closing

WA Income Tax Signed — But Fraud, Lawsuits & Government Waste Still Growing — Elephant in the Dome

People aren’t just leaving Washington — they’re bolting. Sen. John Braun breaks down the IRS data and real stories of everyday families moving to cheaper states. Think it’s only rich folks? Think again.

Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/Ea27tjJ_DzQ?si=7CDUY5OlNB4XoArA

Share your own story: https://src.wastateleg.org/exitwa/

Why Washingtonians Are Heading Out

Washington is seeing more income and more taxpayers leaving than arriving. In this clip from “Elephant in the Dome,” Senate Republican Leader John Braun discuss what the latest IRS numbers may signal for Washington’s economy.

FULL EPISODE: https://youtu.be/Ea27tjJ_DzQ?si=glYdXxtxVFu12wil

Why Washington Is Losing Taxpayers

Washington is seeing more people and income leave the state than arrive — and IRS data confirms it. Senate Republican Leader John Braun breaks down why: rising taxes, cost‑of‑living spikes, business flight, and new policies that may be accelerating the trend. They also discuss Washington’s most expensive cost categories, how migration patterns are shifting, and why many families and businesses feel forced to look elsewhere.

The episode also introduces ExitWA, a new platform where Washingtonians can share why they're leaving — or thinking about leaving — the state.

Subscribe for weekly insight into Washington’s policy decisions, their impacts, and stories from the people who live them.

ExitWA link: https://src.wastateleg.org/exitwa/

Washington State Senate Republican Caucus website → ExitWA page

0:00 – Introduction: Washington’s migration reversal
0:35 – IRS data: more taxpayers leaving than arriving
1:12 – Impact of new taxes and legislative trends
2:24 – Washington’s economic strengths and major employers
3:38 – Struggles of small and midsize businesses
4:02 – Are concerns about capital flight exaggerated?
5:07 – Economic contradictions and legislative decisions
6:00 – Rising costs: food, gas, childcare, and more
7:08 – Everyday families leaving the state
7:52 – Migration trends nationwide
8:13 – Introducing ExitWA
8:44 – Why California and Oregon movers may rethink Washington
9:18 – Retirees seeking lower taxes elsewhere
10:02 – Rational financial decisions and affordability
11:18 – Why Democrats see the data differently
11:47 – Risks to Washington’s social services and budget
13:15 – Could policy change course?
14:21 – What Braun tells people considering leaving
15:05 – A message of hope and engagement
15:57 – Closing: Share your story on ExitWA

Are you thinking about leaving Washington, or have you already moved? What drove your decision? Tell us in the comments — we’d really like to hear your story.

Leaving Washington: Myth, Reality, and the IRS Data Behind It—The Elephant in the Dome Podcast

KIMA: Legislators reflect on recent session after Yakima bill signing

A heated exchange from The Elephant in the Dome dives into Washington’s income tax debate. Senate Republican Leader John Braun challenges Democratic proposals, questioning motives, past actions, and promises of tax reform. Is this about fairness—or more taxation? Get a sharp, unfiltered taste of the bigger conversation.

FULL EPISODE OF THE ELEPHANT IN THE DOME: https://youtu.be/WclMtwxAsOU?si=2rgI3dQpaM5hHxMt

Income Tax Showdown: Trust or Tax Grab?

Washington’s 2026 legislative session ended with a historic income tax proposal, an $80 billion state budget, and major fights over agriculture, law enforcement, and business regulation.

Senate Republican Leader John Braun joins Elephant in the Dome to explain what passed, what Republicans stopped, and what it could mean for Washington’s economy.

Topics include:
• Washington income tax debate
• The $80 billion state budget
• Agriculture unionization proposal
• Law enforcement hiring issues
• Attorney General power expansion

0:00 Intro – Wrapping Up the 2026 Legislative Session
0:29 The Income Tax That Just Passed the Legislature
1:38 Why Democrats Say Washington Needs an Income Tax
3:18 The “Tax Code Fix” Debate
5:25 Biggest Republican Win: Stopping Ag Unionization
6:57 Why the Agriculture Bill Worried Lawmakers
8:48 Budget Concerns & The Rainy Day Fund
9:34 The Environmental Crimes Bill
11:03 Law Enforcement Hiring Problems
11:54 The “Anti-Sheriff” Bill Explained
13:01 Expanding the Attorney General’s Power
15:12 The Overall Theme of the 2026 Session
15:43 Outro

What do you think about the income tax proposal in Washington?
Should voters decide?
Let us know in the comments.

A ‘Train Wreck’ for Washington? Inside the 2026 Legislative Session

Senators John Braun and Chris Gildon warn that Washington could be in a fiscal “doom loop” or “death spiral” as the income tax and other new taxes move forward. From potential payroll and wealth taxes to concerns about runaway spending, here’s a preview of what’s at stake.

Watch the full conversation on The Elephant in the Dome: https://youtu.be/KPHZcEfDatA?si=YT_uWgzTu0Up9XVh

Are new taxes putting Washington in a doom loop or a death spiral?

Washington’s state budget has doubled in just 10 years — from about $40 billion to $80 billion. But have household incomes kept up?

Senators John Braun and Chris Gildon break down the spending, taxes, and economic concerns shaping the debate in Olympia.

Watch the full Elephant in the Dome podcast for the complete conversation.

Washington’s Budget Doubled. What Happened? | Elephant in the Dome

Sen. John Braun discusses Washington’s new income tax, predicted legal challenges, budget concerns, and policy outcomes. He highlights fiscal risks, opposition to expanded taxes, key bills stopped, cautious approaches to AI regulation, and priorities for housing, spending oversight, and restoring public trust in government.

TVW: The Impact: Sen. John Braun on the 2026 legislative session

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, announced he will not seek re-election. He began representing the 8th Legislative District in the House of Representatives in 2019 and was elected to the Senate in 2023. The Senate honored his service with a resolution.

Senate honors Sen. Matt Boehnke as he announces he will not seek another term

Sen Keith Goehner on the transportation budget

Senate Republican Leader John Braun and Senator Chris Gildon break down Washington’s newly released budget, long‑term deficits, and the impacts of the income tax. They warn of structural instability, spending growth, and economic risks they say could drive Washington toward a fiscal “doom loop.”

Elephant in the Dome: Budget Battles & Washington’s Fiscal Future: Income Tax, Deficits, Doom Loops

Sen. Mark Schoesler outlines his concerns about the income tax bill, highlighting long floor debates, emergency clause maneuvering, and the expanding definition of low‑income eligibility. He argues that the tax will affect middle‑class families, critiques provisions such as universal free school meals, and rejects participation in a committee he believes is designed to justify higher taxes.

Sen. Mark Schoesler discusses impacts of new income tax legislation

Senator Drew MacEwen warns constituents about a newly passed income tax bill, arguing it raises taxes, violates the state constitution, and offers no meaningful relief for working families. He urges viewers to contact the governor and request a veto, emphasizing that Washington faces a spending problem rather than a revenue issue.

Sen. Drew MacEwen Urges Veto of Income Tax Bill

Senator Judy Warnick reflects on her final legislative session and expresses gratitude to the people of Washington’s 13th District. She honors her work representing rural communities, acknowledges the challenges they face, and thanks constituents for the opportunity to serve. She looks forward to staying connected even after leaving office.

Sen. Judy Warnick Shares Farewell Message to Constituents

Sen. Braun describes the unconstitutional income tax passed by Democrats this year as the worsts bill he's seen in his career in the Legislature. He also discusses the operating budget that raids the state's reserve funds, depends on sketchy budget gimmicks and will result in a $10 billion deficit. Filmed on the second-to-last day of the 2026 Legislative Session.

Senate Republican Leader John Braun, 20th LD, shares a final update on the 2026 legislative session.

Sen. Perry Dozier says many Democrats joined Republicans in opposing the bill. He says it’s important to get a hold of Governor Ferguson and let him know that you're still opposed to this income tax, and he should veto the bill.

Sen. Perry Dozier on the income tax bill that passed out of the House and Senate

Sen. Matt Boehnke delivers an update from Olympia as the proposed income tax comes to the Senate floor for debate. Boehnke argues the plan is unconstitutional and warns it could eventually expand beyond so-called “millionaires” to impact families, small businesses, and manufacturers across Washington. He urges residents to contact the governor and speak out against the proposal.

Sen. Matt Boehnke warns income tax is a 'gateway' to taxing everyone in Washington

State Senator Nikki Torres provides an update on the income tax bill. It has passed in both chambers and is headed to the governor's desk. She urges you to reach out to the governor to ask him to veto the bill.

Sen. Nikki Torres wants veto on income tax

Senator Judy Warnick will not seek re-election but will serve until her current term ends in January 2027.

The Moses Lake Republican started representing the 13th Legislative District in 2006 in the House before moving to the Senate in 2015.

She is the current Chair of the Senate Republican Caucus.

Warnick is a strong advocate for youth and women’s sports, farmers, small businesses, and rural communities.

The Senate honored her with a resolution.

SR 8702 Honoring Senator Judy Warnick

Instagram

wasenrepublicans

This is the official Instagram of the Washington State Senate Republican Caucus.

It’s April Fools Day, but Washingtonians aren’t in

Happening Now: @govferguson just signed SB 5974 in

ICYMI: Former Washington State Attorney General Ro

BREAKING: @govferguson further breaks his promise

Sen. Perry Dozier says it’s important to get ahold

Former WA Attorney General Rob McKenna eviscerates

INCOME TAX: Sen. Nikki Torres provides an update o

THE FIGHT IS NOT OVER: WA Democrats passed a 9.9%

Follow on Instagram