Washington Can’t Afford It

Every law has a cost. Families should come first.

Quick Facts:
  • Cost of living above national average
  • One of the most expensive states for housing
  • Some of the highest gas prices in the country

A parent shares how everyday costs in Washington far outpace what families pay elsewhere.

My daughter is 9, and when we travel across the country to visit family in Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, or Tennessee, she always gets the same McDonald’s Happy Meal—cheeseburger, chocolate milk, fries, apple slices, and a toy. In Atlanta, it cost $3.27, and the most expensive we’ve seen on our trips was $3.48. At home in Pierce County, the exact same Happy Meal is $6.59—roughly 100% more for the same meal and portion size.

It could get worse. Legislative Democrats propose a JOBS Tax

Watch for yourself

 

The Three Pillars of Affordability

Economic Affordability – Keep Washington Livable

    • Reject costly policies
    • Reduce expenses
    • Protect jobs

Community Affordability – Keep Washington Safe

    • Prioritize victims’ rights
    • Strengthen law enforcement
    • Protect kids

Future Affordability – Keep Washington’s Promise

    • Improve schools
    • Strengthen families
    • Reinvest in kids

Video

On The Elephant in the Dome podcast, Sen. John Braun unpacks the affordability crisis in Washington—from groceries to housing to Medicaid. He explores priorities, long-term costs, and what lawmakers must do to keep essential services sustainable.

On [un]Divided, Sen. John Braun joins Brandi Kruse to discuss Washington’s housing crisis, tax hikes, and the state’s economic outlook, warning of business flight and urging fiscal restraint amid growing budget challenges.

Washington can’t afford policies that make life harder for families

Are you broke yet? You may be soon. Democrats are pushing a jobs tax, an income tax, and higher business taxes—stacked on top of this year’s hikes in gas, sales, and property taxes. Washington simply can’t afford it.