Turns out, Bob Ferguson can dish out soft-on-crime policies but can’t take the heat when called out on them.
Bob Ferguson’s Tough-on-Crime Act Crumbles Under Questioning
In a recent interview with the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs (WASPC), gubernatorial candidate Bob Ferguson had a notable outburst when questioned about his party’s role in Washington’s rising crime rates. Pressed by Executive Director Steve Strachan on Democrats’ soft-on-crime policies, Ferguson lashed out, insisting it was unfair to blame his party. He claimed the state’s Retail Crime Task Force was a success, despite the fact it was only formed after Democrat policies created the retail theft crisis. Strachan highlighted the issue, pointing out that policies allowing criminals to avoid jail had led to spikes in theft and other crimes. Ferguson, visibly frustrated, pushed back, but his defense fell flat.
As KTTH’s Jason Rantz notes, Democrats’ policies, including the ban on police vehicular pursuits and restrictions on questioning juveniles without a lawyer, have worsened the crime crisis. Additionally, Ferguson’s decision to release level three sex offenders into less secure facilities without community notification has further drawn criticism. Despite Ferguson’s claims of being tough on crime, his party’s policies tell a different story, and his reaction during the interview underscores his inability to take responsibility for Washington’s spiraling crime issues. Read more at KTTH.
More Money, Less Teaching: Washington's Education 'Improvement' Plan
Washington state politicians often claim public schools need more funding, despite receiving over $20 billion annually, translating to $19,000 per student—higher than most private school tuition. According to the Washington Policy Center, despite this significant funding, enrollment is slowing while budgets continue to grow, raising questions about where all the money is going. A new analysis from the Office of Fiscal Management (OFM) reveals that public schools are hiring non-teaching staff and administrators at twice the rate of teachers. Currently, 80% of school operating budgets are spent on salaries and benefits, with much of the funding going to non-teaching roles.
Since 2011, the state’s biennial public school budget has more than doubled from $13.1 billion to $30.6 billion, largely due to the McCleary court ruling and subsequent tax hikes. The Washington Policy Center notes that while teaching staff increased by 25%, administrative staff grew much faster: principals by 42%, other administrators by 54%, and non-teaching staff by 66%. This suggests that the bulk of increased spending has gone to staff rather than classroom resources, prompting concerns about student learning and the prioritization of administrative roles. Read more at the Washington Policy Center.
Taxpayer Dollars at Work: Promoting Programs You Didn't Ask For!
In his latest op-ed, Republican State Sen. John Braun takes aim at the opposition to ballot measures that would make the long-term care payroll tax optional in Washington. He points out that ads against Initiative 2124 are mainly funded by the “caregivers union,” which has played a role in getting both the tax and the long-term care tax passed. Braun highlights how these misleading ads trick voters into thinking their long-term care will be fully covered by this government-run program. He also criticizes the use of taxpayer dollars to support these deceptive campaigns and other government initiatives, like the cap-and-tax, which he calls a “hidden gas tax” that drives up living costs.
Braun notes that Gov. Jay Inslee’s directive pushes state agencies to promote the cap-and-tax, admitting that it’s tough to put a price tag on the costs involved. He argues it’s unfair for the state to use taxpayer resources to sway public opinion, especially when initiatives like I-2117 are trying to repeal unpopular taxes. He compares this to how there’s no similar promotional push for other mandatory programs like unemployment insurance and workers’ compensation.
He also points out the shortcomings of the long-term care tax, explaining that workers have to contribute for ten years before they can access a maximum of $36,500, which doesn’t even come close to covering real long-term care costs. Braun encourages voters to back the initiatives on the ballot, stressing that using taxpayer dollars to influence elections shows why it’s crucial to challenge the current administration’s tactics. He urges citizens to get out there and vote by November 5, advocating for measures that provide some much-needed financial relief for taxpayers. Read more at The Chronicle.
Boeing Offers 35% Raise, Union Still Holding Out for a Pension Time Machine
Despite a 35% raise over four years and improved 401(k) contributions in Boeing’s latest contract proposal, union members with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers remain largely unmoved. The offer includes a one-time $5,000 401(k) contribution and a 4% annual bonus, but many workers are still holding out for the reinstatement of a traditional pension plan, which Boeing has made clear is off the table. While some admit they are closer to accepting the deal, others seem reluctant, citing concerns over wage increases and benefits for lower-paid workers.
The union’s strike has now stretched 38 days, and despite mediation from Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, union leadership has been slow to embrace the progress made. It appears they’re holding out for a perfect deal that may never come, even as Boeing has sweetened the offer considerably. Further setting the stage for drama, union members will vote on the contract by Wednesday, which coincides with Boeing’s third-quarter earnings report. Read more at MyNorthwest.com.
Democrat Endorses Republican in Pierce County
In an interesting twist of events, Danny Hankins, a recently withdrawn Democratic candidate for Pierce County Council District 6, has endorsed Republican candidate Loujanna “LJ” Rohrer for the seat. Hankins praised Rohrer for her work ethic, compassion, and policy experience, declaring in his endorsement letter that residents deserve a public servant who truly listens to their concerns. Despite finishing behind incumbent Jani Hitchen in the primary, where Hitchen garnered 41.7% of the votes to Rohrer’s leading 46.8%, Hankins believes Rohrer offers a fresh approach to the council. Rohrer, a senior legislative assistant for the State House, expressed gratitude for Hankins’ support and emphasized their shared commitment to “Fix the Six.” Read more at the Center Square.
Voting Season is Here: Get Your Ballots Ready!
General Election voting kicked off last week as drop boxes opened for ballot submissions. Each county is required to mail ballots to voters by today, starting an 18-day voting period leading up to Election Day on November 5. Please remember to submit your ballot early to avoid last-minute issues. You can 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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