As GOP State Senator John Braun puts it in his latest op-ed, this year’s election is crucial, particularly at the state level, where four money-saving initiatives could shape the legislative session. Braun highlights importance of voting “yes” on initiatives 2117, 2109, 2124, and 2066, which aim to reduce costs from current Democrat-led policies that have raised taxes on gas, income, and property. As Shift WA readers know, Attorney General Bob Ferguson’s “warning labels” on these measures are misleading, suggesting budget cuts that wouldn’t actually happen. Ultimately, Democratic control has led to excessive spending and restrictive tax laws, including the cap-and-tax scheme, which fundamentally contradicts claims of lowering costs.

By voting in more Republicans, Washington can protect middle- and lower-income families from future tax hikes and prioritize fiscal responsibility over Democrat-driven overspending. It’s essential to elect Republicans to executive roles, including Dave Reichert for governor and Jaime Herrera Beutler as lands commissioner, to balance power and counter what he describes as a one-party agenda. Above all, as Braun urges, voters must turn in their ballots by Nov. 5, saying every vote matters to secure a better future for the state. Read the full op-ed here.

In light of the LA Times and Washington Post’s non-presidential endorsements, Seattle Times Opinion Editor Kate Riley issued a newsletter defending the paper’s endorsement approach, framing it as an essential service to voters—but this rationale rings hollow. While the Times proudly points to its questioning of our state’s legislative candidates on “legislative privilege” (a tool for withholding public documents), the paper went on to endorse many of those same candidates, so long as they aligned with Democratic views. The obvious selective endorsement process calls Times’ commitment to accountability over party loyalty into serious doubt. and many readers have noted the disconnect. The Times will, apparently, continue to cling to its role as a political “guide,” apparently completely unfazed by its own apparent double standards.

Activists in Seattle have called for Election Day protests, citing opposition to both Trump and Harris as representing “genocide abroad and a militarized police state at home.” Flyers, including one from the Freedom Road Socialist Organization, urge people to meet at Cal Anderson Park, wear black bloc attire, and reject the election results regardless of the outcome. Seattle police are aware of the gathering and plan to monitor, while Governor Inslee has placed the National Guard on standby in case of violence. Of course, a recent ballot box fire in Vancouver, marked with pro-Palestinian slogans, was the first taste of heightened tensions. Given the major police staffing losses since the defund movement, you may be best served staying clear of Seattle on Election Day. Read more at KTTH.

Election Day is tomorrow. If you haven’t already, please remember to postmark your ballot by 8 p.m. on November 5 (no postage required), or through county drop boxes, which are open 24/7 and will close at 8 p.m. on Election Day. As you know, this election includes crucial positions like president, governor, congressional seats, and local measures. Please remember to vote! You can find ballot drop locations here.

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