Podcasts about An Affordable Washington

A battle over Washington’s initiative process at the State Capitol. Tracy Ellis has the latest on the so-called “Initiative Killer” bill.

Senator Shelly Short and Representatives Andrew Engell and Hunter Abell break down the first week of Washington’s 2026 legislative session. Topics include wildlife management bills, tax proposals, housing and childcare challenges, and the Climate Commitment Act’s...

State taxpayer dollars meant to help people of color buy homes may have gone to insiders instead. Tracy Ellis reports.

Sen. Chris Gildon, R-Puyallup, reports from the state Capitol on the opening of the 2026 legislative session and the important decisions facing lawmakers. https://youtu.be/FeXvLzGLtTM?si=bsl_woM0ezzUYpMx

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. https://youtu.be/ySr9d75_Pd4?si=VnpZpdrE3bvOL20u

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...

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...

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...

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.

Senator Mark Schoesler of the 9th District shares his early impressions of the legislative session, raising concerns about the governor’s operating budget. He notes the contradiction between proposed cuts at Washington State University, while Evergreen State College...

This update from State Senator Jeff Wilson of the 19th District covers two key legislative issues: Senate Bill 5974, which proposes granting an unelected state board authority to remove elected sheriffs—a measure Wilson strongly opposes; and Senate Bill 5750,...

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...

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. https://youtu.be/PKnP289Eb_o?si=BtX3Ko9IQGN1_1DN

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.

From the ports to farms to high-tech manufacturing and the grocery aisles, federal tariff policy has wide-ranging implications. What is the impact of hundreds of millions in tariffs and the outlook for the future in Washington. Republicans take issue with the focus on...