Washington Democrats are scrambling to explain away a $10–$12 billion budget deficit, despite overseeing a record $72 billion state budget. Their solution? Blame rising costs, brush up their “budget-scrubbing” language, and float the ever-predictable idea of raising taxes on “wealthy individuals and companies.” Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen and House Majority Leader Joe Fitzgibbon trotted out talking points about healthcare, childcare, and workforce costs but conveniently ignored the reckless expansion of unsustainable programs that got the state into this mess.

Meanwhile, Republicans, like House Minority Caucus Chair Peter Abbarno, pointed out the glaring red flags Democrats ignored, warning that creating bloated bureaucracies with temporary COVID-era revenues was bound to backfire. Senate Deputy Majority Leader Chris Gildon added fuel to the fire, noting the state is actually projected to bring in more revenue next cycle—so where’s the deficit coming from?

While Democrats hint at tax hikes and vague promises of “fairness,” Republicans argue for cutting government waste and prioritizing essential spending. But don’t expect much accountability—Democrats are already using voters’ rejection of tax-cutting ballot initiatives to justify doubling down on their tax-and-spend agenda. With a 105-day legislative session looming, it’s clear the state’s budget crisis is less about revenue and more about fiscal mismanagement. Read more at Center Square.

Washington taxpayers, brace yourselves – higher taxes are on the way, courtesy of a $10-$12 billion budget shortfall over the next four years. Governor Inslee’s recent spending freeze is little more than a symbolic gesture. Sure, it pauses hiring, service contracts, and travel, but it won’t come close to solving the crisis. It’s like using duct tape on a sinking ship.

So, what’s the plan to cover the gap? Surprise! New taxes. Property taxes are set to climb, fees will pile up, and renters won’t escape the fallout as costs trickle down. Governor-elect Bob Ferguson and his allies have a knack for finding creative ways to take more of your hard-earned money.

Their favorite rallying cry? “Tax the rich.” But here’s the catch: in Olympia, “rich” often means anyone who isn’t flat broke. Even if they squeeze every billionaire in the state, it won’t be enough to fund their ever-growing spending spree. And let’s not forget the inevitable attempt at a wealth tax – unconstitutional, but with an ideologically aligned state Supreme Court, that’s just a pesky detail.

Why are we in this mess? Temporary COVID funds were used to justify permanent new programs, leaving the state’s finances stretched thin. Now, Democrats are left to justify new taxes, insisting they’ve done everything possible – Look, they stopped buying staplers! – when the reality is they’ve run out of other people’s money.

If you’re wondering how this keeps happening, it’s simple: Olympia’s spending habits aren’t slowing down, and taxpayers are footing the bill. The question isn’t whether taxes are going up but how much you’ll feel the pinch. Keep an eye on those pre-filed bills – they’ll tell you just how creative the legislature plans to get. Read more at KTTH.

Kent School District Superintendent Israel Vela seems eager to play the hero, assuring families he’ll protect illegal immigrants from a threat that doesn’t exist. In a newsletter full of vague language and lofty ideals, Vela reaffirmed the district won’t report anyone’s citizenship status—something already illegal to do. While the message feels like performative virtue signaling, it feeds into baseless fears of ICE agents lurking at schools, fears largely manufactured by partisan media. Meanwhile, the district faces real challenges, like a significant budget deficit, that could use Vela’s attention. Instead of solving actual problems, he’s focused on symbolic gestures no one asked for. Read more at KTTH.

Alert for all businesses out there: Scammers are targeting Washington businesses with fake letters demanding payments and fines that far exceed state requirements. These fraudulent notices look official, complete with the state seal and Unified Business Identifier numbers, but some dead giveaways—like a Sacramento return address or a sketchy QR code—should raise red flags. Latino businesses have also been hit with phone scams threatening jail time for nonpayment. Officials are urging businesses to report suspicious letters and verify their status through the state’s Corporations and Charities Filing System. Secretary of State Steve Hobbs and Attorney General Bob Ferguson are reminding business owners to stay vigilant and not fall for these “sophisticated” but sloppy scams. If you’ve been targeted, file a complaint with the attorney general’s office. Bottom line: don’t let the scammers shake you down. Read more at the Washington State Standard.

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