Democrats in Olympia decided the best way to “fix” the housing shortage is to slap a rent control bill on it — because California’s disaster clearly wasn’t convincing enough. On the last day of session, they rammed through HB 1217, capping rent hikes at 7% plus inflation (or 10%, whichever is lower), with mobile homes capped at 5%. Landlords can still set initial rents, but once you’re in, congratulations: you’re a government project now. Developers immediately warned they’ll yank $500 million in investment and rethink thousands of housing units — because why build where politicians kill your return?

Republicans rightly pointed out that the only real solution is more housing, not government price-fixing that’s failed everywhere it’s been tried. Meanwhile, Democrat Rep. Shaun Scott thought this was the perfect moment to lecture everyone about slavery, because apparently no Democrat bill is complete without some virtue-signaling detour. Even some Democrats bailed on this mess, but not enough to stop it from heading to Bob Ferguson’s desk. Spoiler alert: Rent control won’t make housing cheaper — it’ll just make it scarcer. Read more at Center Square.

After months of big talk, Washington Democrats wrapped up the session by handing Bob Ferguson a $77.8 billion budget stuffed with billions in new and higher taxes — because nothing says “we’re listening” like picking pockets. Despite Republican efforts to craft a no-new-taxes plan, Democrats shut them out of negotiations and jammed through a budget where the average family will cough up an extra $2,000 a year. But hey, according to Dems, it’s all for “the people,” which apparently now means bureaucrats, special interests, and criminals. Even The Seattle Times had to admit this tax orgy is going to crush regular Washingtonians, not just the “rich.” Republicans slammed the budget as reckless, bloated, and the biggest tax grab in state history — and they’re right. Meanwhile, Ferguson is out there pretending fewer tax hikes make this some sort of win, while coyly hinting he’ll probably sign it anyway. So much for that “no new taxes” campaign slogan, Bob — voters have long memories. Read more at Center Square.

We join the Washington State Senate Republican Caucus in offering our condolences to Senator Chris Gildon upon the unexpected passing of his wife. Senator Gildon and Autumn were married for more than 31 years. Our thoughts and prayers are with Senator Gildon, his family, and all who knew and loved Autumn. We extend our heartfelt sympathy and pray they find comfort and peace during this incredibly difficult time.

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