Jay Inslee is going to run for President as the “green” liberal. Probably the worst kept secret of 2018. In a much too long piece for The Atlantic, Inslee says he has the progressive record to be a competitive contender. “That’s a fundamental message that many Democratic politicians can talk about, but I have the unique ability to show the proof in the pudding that we’ve actually done this,” he said. I think we all know there’s no pudding. (The Atlantic)

New year, new laws. A series of new Washington State laws went into effect Wednesday. One particular note worth law is Initiative 1639, the contentious gun regulation initiative. Gun buyers will have to navigate the new regulations. (King 5)

Momentum is growing to update the Growth Management Act during the upcoming legislative session.“Establishing a minimum residential density standard for cities in fast-growing counties would be a major step forward—one that is long overdue,” wrote Kat Sims, the executive director of the Master Builders Association of King & Snohomish Counties, and Senator Guy Palumbo represents the 1st District in the State Senate. The two argue a standard would help grow housing choice, increase affordability, and improve our region’s ability to accommodate the tremendous growth. (The Lens)

As of midnight on Tuesday, Safeco Field officially became T-Mobile Park, ending Safeco’s 20-year partnership with the Mariners. “T-Mobile has a deep commitment to this community, a passion for customer service and a well-earned reputation as a leader in innovation. These are the qualities that make T-Mobile the right partner to name this iconic ballpark,” John Stanton, Seattle Mariners Chairman and Managing Partner back when the name change was announced. (My Northwest)

If you’re one of the Seattleites resolving to ride your bike more in 2019, you’re in luck. “Over the next 12 months we should increase rack capacity citywide by about 20 percent,” said Joel Miller, bikeshare program manager for the Seattle Department of Transportation. The 20 percent increase will mean an addition of about 800 new bike racks. Perhaps Seattle will consider turning a couple more lanes in to bike-only lanes to accommodate all the growth? (My Northwest)

The Walla Walla county Republican Party has set a plan for how to fill the vacant county commissioner seat. According to county party chairman, county commissioners have asked the Republican Central Committee to begin the process of selecting nominees to replace Commissioner Jim Duncan as soon as possible.Duncan, 49, died unexpectedly on Dec. 27 after suffering a heart attack at his home in Burbank. (Union-Bulletin)

A Spokane housing organization received money to purchase the Sunnyside Manor II, a 12-unit senior-citizen apartment building in Sunnyside. “With the purchase of Sunnyside Manor II, we continue the preservation of affordable senior housing in the Sunnyside community,” senior developer Dave Roberts said in a release. (Yakima Herald)

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