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The Washington Supreme Court struck down Initiative 2066 in a 6-3 decision, ruling the voter-approved natural gas measure unconstitutional for covering four distinct subjects. The measure had passed with nearly 52% of the vote across 34 of Washington's 39 counties in 2024. Chief Justice Debra Stephens wrote that no portion could be severed and saved. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/wa-high-court-tosses-natural-gas-measure-approved-by-voters/ #WashingtonState #Initiative2066 #NaturalGas #WashingtonSupremeCourt #EnergyPolicy #ClarkCounty #ClarkCountyToday
WEST v. WASHINGTON STATE LEGISLATURE (2026) // ‘Government edit’? Two lawsuits challenge state’s description of WA income tax measure // Challenge lost; Washington Supreme Court fractured over income tax repeal fight // Bonnie Brown & Google's 28th Birthday // California’s wealth tax is built on billionaires who aren't really billionaires // GOODBYE ANDREW // LETTERS
The Washington State Supreme Court has deadlocked in a major legal battle over Initiative 645, the November ballot measure seeking to repeal Washington state's new income tax. A 4-4 split by the Washington Supreme Court leaves the Public Investment Impact Disclosure, or PIID, written by Attorney General Nick Brown's office in place on the November 3 ballot. The disclosure warns voters that approving Initiative 645 would decrease funding for K-12 education, higher education and human services, including healthcare. Critics of the ballot disclosure argue that it is misleading because Washington's new income tax has not yet generated revenue. Government transparency advocate Arthur West challenged the PIID, while Let's Go Washington and Washington GOP Chairman Jim Walsh have also strongly criticized the language. Brian Heywood of Let's Go Washington is responding to the divided Supreme Court decision and what it could mean for the campaign to repeal Washington's income tax. Meanwhile, another major Washington election fight is moving forward in Pierce County. A judge rejected a challenge seeking to block Pierce County Charter Amendment 53 from reaching voters. The amendment would change the Pierce County sheriff from an elected position to an appointed position and could remove Sheriff Keith Swank from office. Pierce County voters will now have an opportunity to decide whether they want to continue directly electing their sheriff. Another Pierce County proposal, Amendment 54, would create a new Public Safety Ombuds office with oversight involving the Pierce County Sheriff's Office, raising additional questions about government accountability, costs and law enforcement oversight. Finally, Washington's 2018 ban on so-called conversion therapy is facing renewed legal scrutiny following a U.S. Supreme Court decision involving a similar Colorado law. Washington marriage and family therapist Brian Tingley is getting another opportunity to challenge the state's restrictions. Alliance Defending Freedom argues the law violates counselors' First Amendment free speech rights by restricting certain conversations with minor clients. Washington State Sen. Marko Liias, who sponsored the original legislation, is defending the law and arguing that it protects minors from practices he says are harmful and ineffective. Washington in Focus Daily breaks down the latest Washington Supreme Court ruling, Initiative 645 income tax repeal battle, Pierce County sheriff election fight, November 2026 ballot measures and renewed constitutional challenge to Washington's conversion therapy law. #WashingtonState #WashingtonPolitics #IncomeTax #Initiative645 #WASupremeCourt #Taxpayers #PierceCounty #PierceCountySheriff #KeithSwank #Election2026 #Seattle #SCOTUS #FirstAmendment #WashingtonNews #TheCenterSquare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Washington's income tax repeal fight is escalating as Initiative 645 heads toward the November ballot and the Washington State Supreme Court considers a major challenge involving the ballot language voters will see. Former Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler is urging Washington voters to support Initiative 645 and repeal the state's new 9.9% tax on household income above $1 million. Herrera Beutler argues the so-called “millionaires tax” could eventually expand to more Washington taxpayers, while supporters of the tax argue it is necessary to make Washington's tax system less regressive. The Washington Supreme Court is also weighing the legal fight over the Public Investment Impact Disclosure, or PIID, that will accompany Initiative 645 on the November ballot. A five-justice panel considered Arthur West's challenge but continued the matter for additional consideration, potentially putting the issue before the full Washington Supreme Court. Meanwhile, Seattle Public Schools avoided a teacher strike at the last minute, allowing students to return to classrooms on schedule. But questions remain about what the district agreed to financially as Seattle Public Schools faces a major budget shortfall. And Seattle is facing a potential constitutional fight over its P-Patch community gardening program. Pacific Legal Foundation is challenging the city's policy of prioritizing certain racial groups for highly sought-after community garden plots and is pressing Seattle officials to change the policy. Washington in Focus Daily breaks down the latest Washington income tax news, Initiative 645, the Supreme Court ballot fight, Seattle Public Schools negotiations, Washington education spending, Seattle's P-Patch garden controversy and the latest political and government accountability news from across Washington state. #WashingtonState #WashingtonPolitics #IncomeTax #Initiative645 #WashingtonTaxes #Seattle #SeattleSchools #SeattleNews #WASupremeCourt #Taxpayer #WashingtonNews #Olympia #GovernmentAccountability #WashingtonInFocus Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal. First: The U.S. and Canada are in the throes of an all-out trade war that started with an announcement of new tariffs at the beginning of week – and ended with the President renaming Lake Ontario "Lake America." We speak with White House trade adviser Peter Navarro to hear what the tiff is all about. Then: This Friday marks the 63rd anniversary of the March on Washington. We spoke with the Reverend Al Sharpton about THIS YEAR's March that he's leading – and why voting rights is the focus. And speaking of voting – the Supreme Court issued an emergency opinion this week – siding with President Trump on mail-in voting restrictions. We spoke with election law expert Michael Morley from Florida State University – about what it all means. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Washington state's income tax repeal fight is heading back before the Washington Supreme Court as the battle over Initiative 645 and its controversial ballot language intensifies ahead of the November election. A panel of Washington Supreme Court justices is set to consider government transparency advocate Arthur West's challenge to the Public Investment Impact Disclosure, or PIID, that will accompany Initiative 645. The initiative, backed by Let's Go Washington, seeks to repeal Washington's new income tax. Critics, including Washington GOP Chairman Jim Walsh, argue the Attorney General-crafted disclosure is misleading because it warns that repealing the tax would reduce funding for K-12 education, higher education and healthcare even though revenue from the new tax has not yet begun flowing into state coffers. But the income tax repeal fight has now taken another unusual turn. West is suing Walsh and the Washington State Republican Party for defamation over claims that West was unprepared and "tricked" during the original Thurston County Superior Court case. Two Thurston County judges have now recused themselves from the West v. Walsh lawsuit. Also in this episode, Washington builders are raising concerns about proposed updates to the state's residential and commercial energy codes. The Washington State Building Code Council continues considering rules favoring electric heat pumps and further electrification as the Washington Supreme Court separately considers the legal fight surrounding Initiative 2066 and natural gas choice. The Building Industry Association of Washington is questioning why the state is moving forward with additional energy-code changes before the Initiative 2066 litigation is resolved. Builders and housing advocates are also raising concerns about construction costs, housing affordability and the impact new Washington energy regulations could have on homeowners, renters and homebuilders. Plus, a Washington ranching family is appealing its legal battle against the Washington State Department of Ecology. Wade and Theresa King, owners of King Ranch in Grant and Douglas counties, are fighting more than $260,000 in penalties and potentially millions of dollars in restoration costs stemming from the state's claim that maintenance of stock-water ponds disturbed protected wetlands. The Kings dispute that the areas are wetlands and argue they should have the right to have a jury decide the case rather than proceeding through the Pollution Control Hearings Board. Watch Washington in Focus for the latest Washington politics, Washington Supreme Court news, Initiative 645, Washington income tax repeal, Initiative 2066, natural gas regulations, Washington energy codes, housing affordability, property rights, Department of Ecology disputes and government accountability news from across Washington state. #WashingtonState #WAPolitics #WashingtonPolitics #IncomeTax #Initiative645 #WashingtonSupremeCourt #NaturalGas #Initiative2066 #EnergyCodes #HousingAffordability #PropertyRights #ArthurWest #JimWalsh #TheCenterSquare #WashingtonInFocus Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson is facing another troubling poll, with new Seattle Metro Chamber numbers showing her favorability falling from 57% in April to just 37%. Public safety appears to be a major concern as Wilson faces scrutiny over violent crime, the departure of Police Chief Shon Barnes, surveillance policy and an active recall effort. Meanwhile, the legal battle over Washington's income tax repeal initiative continues. The Washington State Supreme Court has agreed to have a panel consider Arthur West's emergency motion challenging the Public Investment Impact Disclosure that will appear alongside Initiative 645. West and Washington GOP Chairman Jim Walsh argue the disclosure could mislead voters about the fiscal impact of repealing the state's new income tax. And with five Washington Supreme Court seats on the November ballot, candidate Scott Edwards is challenging what he calls the state's “resign and appoint” model for filling judicial vacancies. Justice Colleen Melody, who was appointed by Gov. Bob Ferguson, pushes back on concerns that gubernatorial appointments compromise judicial independence. Washington In Focus Daily breaks down the polling, the latest income tax court battle and the growing debate over who should shape Washington's highest court. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
A longtime Seattle Times sportswriter has resigned after editors declined to publish his column featuring two Washington female athletes who oppose competing against biological males. Matt Calkins, who spent 11 years at The Seattle Times, spoke with Washington In Focus Daily after his resignation story went viral. Calkins discussed why the rejected column became his final straw and argued that there is a disconnect between newsrooms and the general public. Meanwhile, the Washington Supreme Court has rejected an appeal challenging the Public Investment Impact Disclosure statement that will accompany Initiative 645, the November ballot measure seeking to repeal Washington's new income tax. Critics argue the disclosure could influence how voters perceive the financial consequences of repealing the tax. And Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson is facing another difficult poll. New results show her favorability falling sharply from April as public safety remains a major concern among Seattle voters. Wilson is also facing a recall petition, with a court hearing approaching. Washington In Focus Daily breaks down all three stories and what they could mean heading into Washington's November election. #SeattleTimes #KatieWilson #WashingtonState #WAPolitics #SeattleNews #WashingtonNews #GirlsSports #IncomeTax #I645 #SeattlePolitics #WashingtonSupremeCourt #PublicSafety #TheCenterSquare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
A Washington Public Disclosure Commission investigation involving Let's Go Washington and podcaster Brandi Kruse is moving forward, raising questions about where political commentary ends and campaign advertising begins. Kruse and Let's Go Washington founder Brian Heywood deny any payment arrangement and argue the complaint threatens protected political speech. Meanwhile, a nearly decade-long water-rights battle between a Grant County family farm and the Washington Department of Ecology is heading to the Washington Supreme Court. Ron and Robin Foti say the fight has devastated their farming operation, while the National Federation of Independent Business is backing their case over concerns about government regulation and small businesses. Plus, King County recorded 19 drug-related deaths over a five-day period — the highest weekly number since The Center Square began tracking the data in May — including the death of a 15-year-old girl. The numbers are renewing debate over Washington's approach to addiction, drug enforcement and taxpayer-funded programs. Watch Washington in Focus Daily for continuing coverage of Washington politics, government accountability, public safety, taxes, agriculture and the 2026 election. #WashingtonState #WashingtonPolitics #WashingtonNews #BrandiKruse #LetsGoWashington #PDC #FreeSpeech #Election2026 #WashingtonElection #WaterRights #WashingtonFarmers #WAEcology #WashingtonSupremeCourt #Agriculture #SmallBusiness #KingCounty #Seattle #DrugCrisis #OverdoseCrisis #PublicSafety #GovernmentAccountability #WApolitics #WashingtonInFocus #CenterSquare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Washington's income tax repeal initiative is now headed toward the Washington Supreme Court after a Thurston County judge upheld the ballot's Public Investment Impact Disclosure (PIID). Supporters of Initiative 645 argue the ballot language is politically biased and factually inaccurate as the appeal moves forward. Also in today's episode, Let's Go Washington officially launches its statewide campaign supporting three November ballot initiatives: repealing the new income tax, restoring parental rights in schools, and protecting girls' sports. Finally, new data shows Washington has already paid more than $565,000 in unemployment benefits to striking workers under the state's new law, with concerns growing over the long-term impact on the unemployment insurance fund. Stories in this episode: Income Tax Initiative 645 appeal Washington Supreme Court challenge Ballot language controversy Let's Go Washington campaign kickoff Parents' Rights Initiative Protect Girls' Sports Initiative Washington unemployment benefits Striking workers Labor disputes Washington state politics Hashtags #WashingtonState #IncomeTax #Initiative645 #LetsGoWashington #ParentsRights #GirlsSports #WashingtonPolitics #Unemployment #LaborUnion #GovernmentAccountability #Election2026 #CenterSquare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Spokane arson suspect charged, law grads granted 'diploma privilege,' and a critic of the Washington Supreme Court has taken the lead for an open seat. It’s our daily roundup of top stories from the KUOW newsroom, with host Ruby de Luna. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online or on the KUOW App.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One of the most watched congressional races in the country is in Southwest Washington, and yesterday’s primary yielded few surprises. Washington’s 3rd Congressional District will be critical for both Democrats and Republicans hoping to control the U.S. House. Out of 435 House seats on the ballot this year, it’s one of only a handful of races political experts say will be a toss-up. Republican state Sen. John Braun and Democratic U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez will face each other in the November election. We get an update on that race from OPB reporter Erik Neumann, and also hear about the Washington Supreme Court, Clark County Council and several sheriff elections from OPB reporter Elena Neale-Sacks. Washington’s primary election results
A suspect has been arrested on a first-degree arson charge in connection with Spokane County's devastating Old Trails Fire. Authorities say alert citizens, body-camera footage and fire investigators helped detectives identify the suspect and build the case. The arrest is also fueling political fallout over the causes of the Spokane wildfires, as a law firm challenges former Gov. Jay Inslee's argument that climate change contributed to the disaster. Finally, Washington voters head to the polls for the August 4 primary election, with major congressional, legislative and Washington Supreme Court races being narrowed to the top two candidates for November. Watch Washington in Focus Daily for the latest coverage of the Spokane wildfires, Washington politics, elections and government accountability. #SpokaneWildfires #ArsonArrest #JayInslee #WashingtonPrimary #ElectionDay #WashingtonPolitics #WashingtonNews #Wildfire #ClimateChange #Spokane #WashingtonSupremeCourt #TheCenterSquare #WashingtonInFocus Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Washington in Focus Daily covers three major developments affecting public safety, elections and state politics. First, we examine the deadly shooting at Seattle's Bite of Seattle festival that left three people dead and several others injured. The tragedy is prompting questions about the city's public safety response and the timing of official updates. Next, a new lawsuit challenges the ballot language that will accompany Initiative 645, the measure asking voters whether to repeal Washington's newly enacted income tax. The case argues the required ballot disclosure is unconstitutional and should be reviewed before the November election. Finally, with the August 4 primary just days away, we break down several key races, including competitive congressional contests and multiple Washington Supreme Court elections that could shape the state's political landscape. Stay informed with the latest reporting on Washington politics, public safety and government accountability. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
5pm - IN STUDIO GUEST - STEVE GORDON - FUTURE 42 // Future 42’s Voters Guide for Washington Supreme Court // Unpacking the Dr. Seaward Interview // LETTERS
Nancy Churchill argues that four Washington Supreme Court seats on the August 4 primary ballot could shape the state's constitutional future, including a 2027 ruling on the new 9.9 percent millionaires tax. She profiles four Republican-backed candidates she says prioritize constitutional fidelity over judicial activism. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-supreme-court-slate-your-primary-vote-may-decide-washingtons-future/ #WashingtonState #SupremeCourt #JudicialPrimary #Opinion #Politics #StateTaxes #ConstitutionalLaw #August4Primary #NancyChurchill #DangerousRhetoric
Washington business leaders are warning that rising taxes, regulations and economic uncertainty are making it increasingly difficult to grow and invest in the state. At the Association of Washington Business Economic Future Solutions Summit, executives from multiple industries described rising costs, expansion into neighboring states and concerns over Washington's long-term business climate. Also in this episode, a new estimate from the Washington Policy Center suggests replacing the electricity generated by the four Lower Snake River dams could cost more than $34 billion—far exceeding the cost of the state's new $800,000 study examining replacement options. The estimate does not include additional transportation or transmission infrastructure costs. Finally, Washington Supreme Court candidate Myers says attorneys and judges should embrace artificial intelligence as a productivity tool, provided that humans remain responsible for verifying information and making all final legal decisions. Watch Washington in Focus Daily for in-depth reporting on Washington politics, business, public policy, energy and the courts. #WashingtonBusiness #WashingtonPolitics #SnakeRiverDams #EnergyPolicy #SupremeCourt #ArtificialIntelligence #WashingtonNews #TheCenterSquare #WashingtonInFocus Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Five of nine Washington Supreme Court seats are on the 2026 primary ballot. The League of Women Voters of Washington has published video interviews with 13 of 14 candidates, each answering the same four questions on judicial experience, legal reasoning, and judicial review. Ballots are due August 4. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/lwv-of-wa-launches-four-questions-video-series-for-washington-supreme-court/ #WashingtonSupremeCourt #LWVWashington #Vote411 #JudicialElections #Washington2026 #VoterGuide #ClarkCounty #PrimaryElection
Washington's Supreme Court race continues to spotlight major questions about judicial decision-making, public defender caseload standards, county budgets, and the separation between interpreting the law and making public policy. The show also examines newly released records surrounding Washington's income tax legislation after the Attorney General's Office dismissed previous reporting as "no story." Investigative reporter TJ Martinell explains why the documents continue to draw statewide attention. Finally, we highlight the remarkable success of Jenny Burton's Out Impact Coalition. Former inmate Tone Williams shares how the program helped transform his life after serving 13 years in prison, while retired Seattle Police Deputy Chief Eric Barden explains why rehabilitation can improve public safety while reducing taxpayer costs. Featured in this episode: Washington Supreme Court race David Stevens interview Public defender caseloads Washington Attorney General Income tax records Senate Bill 6346 TJ Martinell Washington politics Prison reform Jenny Burton Out Impact Coalition Tone Williams Eric Barden Criminal justice reform Washington news Subscribe for daily reporting on Washington politics, taxes, public safety, criminal justice, courts, and government accountability from The Center Square. #WashingtonPolitics #WashingtonSupremeCourt #IncomeTax #PrisonReform #PublicSafety #GovernmentAccountability #WashingtonNews #TheCenterSquare #WashingtonInFocus #CriminalJustice Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
What should the Washington State Supreme Court's role really be? In this exclusive interview, I sit down with Washington Supreme Court Position 7 candidate Karim Merchant to discuss some of the biggest constitutional and legal issues facing our state.We cover the Washington capital gains tax, the $30 car tabs initiative, Article I, Section 24 of the Washington Constitution, Second Amendment protections, judicial accountability, public safety, bail, police pursuits, constitutional interpretation, and the growing concern over public confidence in Washington's courts.This conversation is intended to help Washington voters better understand one of the candidates seeking a seat on the state's highest court ahead of the August primary. Whether you agree or disagree with the views expressed, informed voters make better decisions.Topics discussed:Washington Supreme Court raceGun rights & Article I, Section 24Capital gains tax$30 car tabs initiativeJudicial accountabilityPublic safety & bailConstitutional lawPolice pursuitsRule of lawWashington electionsWhat issue do you think the Washington Supreme Court should focus on most over the next decade? Let me know in the comments.If you enjoyed this interview, please like, subscribe, and share it with other Washington voters. Your support helps us continue bringing long-form interviews and in-depth coverage of the issues that affect our state.#WashingtonState #WashingtonPolitics #WashingtonSupremeCourt #KarimMerchant #SupremeCourt #JudicialElection #JudicialAccountability #Constitution #Constitutionalist #RuleOfLaw #SecondAmendment #GunRights #Article1Section24 #PublicSafety #LawEnforcement #CapitalGainsTax #30CarTabs #WashingtonVoters #Election2026 #VoteWA #WashingtonNews #PoliticalInterview #LeftCoastNews #JudicialReform #GovernmentAccountability #WashingtonStatePolitics #StateSupremeCourt #Politics #WashingtonElection #ExclusiveInterview
Left Coast News breaks down the critical stakes of the upcoming election. From stopping an absolute Democrat supermajority to flipping key seats on the Washington Supreme Court, here is your guide to taking back a voice for sanity.#WashingtonState #WASupremeCourt #LeftCoastNews #WAPolitics #Olympia #WAleg #WashingtonPolitics #PacificNorthwest #Conservative #SaveOurState #VoteWashington #JudicialRestraint #StopTheSupermajority #BalanceTheBench #VoterTurnout #ConstitutionalOriginalism
Vancouver leaders pushed C-TRAN to plan fixed rail beyond the Interstate Bridge project, two Washington Supreme Court justices face recusal calls over income tax ties to Gov. Bob Ferguson, and Camas Days returns July 25-26 with a Broadway theme. Fireworks sales begin June 28 as fire officials warn of elevated wildfire danger. URLHERE #ClarkCounty #Vancouver #Camas #Transportation #LightRail #CTRAN #IncometTax #CamasDays #Fireworks #WashingtonState
Three candidates are competing for a six-year seat on the Washington Supreme Court, with the primary set for August 4. Nancy Churchill examines the fundraising gaps, endorsement patterns, and judicial philosophies separating J. Michael Diaz, Jaime Hawk, and David Stevens — and argues only one treats the Constitution as a fixed standard. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-position-three-constitution-over-politics/ #WashingtonSupremeCourt #JudicialElection #DavidStevens #NancyChurchill #DangerousRhetoric #WashingtonState #Opinion #Politics #PrimaryElection #August4
Today in the business of podcasting:SiriusXM has struck a non-exclusive distribution and advertising deal with Fox's free streaming service Tubi, bringing popular video podcasts including Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend, Rotten Mango, and The School of Greatness to the platform starting in late June.The ANA's Q1 2026 Programmatic Transparency Benchmark finds a growing performance gap between top advertisers, who convert 54% of programmatic spend into quality impressions, and lower-performing peers who convert just 32.1%, with private marketplace transactions accounting for 85% of all programmatic spending.The IAB has filed an amicus brief in Baker v. Seattle Children's Hospital, a case before the Washington Supreme Court in which plaintiffs argue a hospital's use of Meta Pixel for marketing constitutes illegal wiretapping under 1960s-era laws — a theory the IAB's general counsel says could threaten all ad-supported media.Media, Built newsletter author Steve Raizes argues the podcasting industry is better served by confronting accurate audience metrics sooner rather than later, using Apple's iOS 17 auto-download change as a precedent and pointing to the Alliance for Measurement in Podcasting's ongoing work to establish a verified industry metric.To find links to these, and every article covered in today's episode, click here. You can also subscribe to The Download's newsletter to receive the full issue straight to your email inbox every day.
Today in the business of podcasting:SiriusXM has struck a non-exclusive distribution and advertising deal with Fox's free streaming service Tubi, bringing popular video podcasts including Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend, Rotten Mango, and The School of Greatness to the platform starting in late June.The ANA's Q1 2026 Programmatic Transparency Benchmark finds a growing performance gap between top advertisers, who convert 54% of programmatic spend into quality impressions, and lower-performing peers who convert just 32.1%, with private marketplace transactions accounting for 85% of all programmatic spending.The IAB has filed an amicus brief in Baker v. Seattle Children's Hospital, a case before the Washington Supreme Court in which plaintiffs argue a hospital's use of Meta Pixel for marketing constitutes illegal wiretapping under 1960s-era laws — a theory the IAB's general counsel says could threaten all ad-supported media.Media, Built newsletter author Steve Raizes argues the podcasting industry is better served by confronting accurate audience metrics sooner rather than later, using Apple's iOS 17 auto-download change as a precedent and pointing to the Alliance for Measurement in Podcasting's ongoing work to establish a verified industry metric.To find links to these, and every article covered in today's episode, click here. You can also subscribe to The Download's newsletter to receive the full issue straight to your email inbox every day.
After the Washington Supreme Court blocked a referendum on the new 9.9% tax on income over $1 million, Let's Go Washington launched Initiative to the People 26-645 — a measure that would repeal the tax and ban future income taxes statewide. Columnist Nancy Churchill argues the effort goes beyond one tax rate, pointing to Sen. Jamie Pedersen's communications with the Attorney General's Office and Democrats' rejection of amendments that would have prevented the threshold from dropping below $1 million. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-income-tax-battle-round-two-signatures-needed/ #IP26645 #WashingtonStateTax #LetsGoWashington #IncomeTax #TaxRepeal #WashingtonPolitics #Initiative #NancyChurchill #DangerousRhetoric #Opinion ---
Washington's political and economic battles over the newly enacted millionaire's income tax continue intensifying as lawmakers, business groups, and advocacy organizations clash over the future of taxation, constitutional law, and economic competitiveness in the state. During Monday's episode of Washington In Focus Daily, Center Square reporter Carleen Johnson spoke directly with State Senator Jamie Peterson — the sponsor of Washington's controversial income tax legislation — while also examining growing concerns surrounding business relocation and economic uncertainty. ⚖️ TOP STORY: SENATOR JAMIE PETERSON RESPONDS TO TAX QUESTIONS Johnson questioned Peterson about: Legal challenges to the millionaire's tax Internal Attorney General's Office communications The ongoing referendum and initiative fight Concerns surrounding wealthy residents and businesses leaving the state Peterson defended the legislation and argued: ➡️ Consultation between lawmakers and the Attorney General's Office is normal ➡️ Washington's constitution already excludes tax measures from referendum authority ➡️ The issue is ultimately constitutional and legal in nature Peterson also maintained that the Washington Supreme Court has already clarified the referendum question surrounding tax legislation.
Big money pours into Washington Supreme Court races amid millionaires tax debate // Ferguson's latest pick for SC is a political donor that’s never been a judge. // Project Blue Beam - A Fake Alien Invasion Decades in the Making? // Curley explains his Katie Wilson endorsement… AGAIN
In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, major questions emerge over Washington's business climate, water rights battles, and the growing debate over homelessness policy across the state. Starbucks founder Howard Schultz publicly criticized Seattle and Washington leadership over what he described as an increasingly anti-business political climate, while a Moses Lake family farm continues a costly nine-year legal battle with the Washington Department of Ecology over water rights. The episode also examines Spokane's ongoing fight over homelessness policy and whether Washington should move away from a “Housing First” approach toward a “Treatment First” model focused on addiction recovery.
Newly obtained emails, growing business relocation concerns, and fresh criticism from former Governor Chris Gregoire are intensifying Washington's ongoing political and legal battle over the state's new income tax structure. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, Venice AI founder Jesse Proudman explains why he joined Let's Go Washington's initiative campaign to repeal the state income tax, while newly released records continue fueling debate over how the tax legislation was crafted and defended behind the scenes. The episode also covers: Concerns over Washington's business climate Exclusive emails involving the Attorney General's Office The latest legal developments surrounding the income tax Ongoing uncertainty over Washington's legislative district maps ahead of the 2026 elections
PHONE GUEST - ROB MCKENNA - FORMER WA STATE ATTORNEY GENERAL // Washington Supreme Court blocks referendum on millionaires’ tax // Trump riffs on Iran war to a group of elementary school kids visiting the White House // LETTERS
5pm - Washington Supreme Court just stripped your right to vote on the millionaires taxWestneat: The gaffes are becoming a pattern for Seattle’s new mayor // Washington sues GEO Group over access to Tacoma ICE Processing Center // Female Inmate Who Says She Was Attacked by Male Felon Sues Washington State over Trans Prison Policy // LETTERS
Five of nine Washington Supreme Court positions face election as justices prepare to rule on a controversial 9.9% income tax on households earning over $1 million annually. With a dozen candidates already registered, this marks the most Supreme Court seats up for election in recent history. The timing is pivotal—voters rejected income taxes 10 times in the last century, and the court struck them down three times. Emails between the Attorney General's office and lawmakers reveal the legislation was designed to force the court to reconsider a 1933 ruling that outlawed income taxes. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/washington-supreme-court-cases-could-decide-fate-of-controversial-income-tax/ #WashingtonSupremeCourt #IncomeTax #WashingtonPolitics #SupremeCourt #Election2026 #WashingtonState #Politics #TaxPolicy #ConstitutionalLaw #TheaterSquare
Senator Jamie Pedersen and Solicitor General Noah Purcell coordinated to craft ESSB 6346 with one goal: force the Washington Supreme Court to overturn Culliton v. Chase while blocking voters from referring the statute to the ballot. Internal emails reveal the necessity clause was inserted specifically to prevent referendum despite the tax not taking effect until 2028. Ryan Frost from Washington Policy Center exposes how lawmakers abandoned the constitutional amendment process that requires voter approval. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-internal-emails-show-income-tax-bill-was-designed-to-bypass-the-constitution-and-lock-out-voters/ #WashingtonTax #ConstitutionalChallenge #VoterRights #Culliton #IncomeTax #WashingtonPolitics #TaxPolicy #SupremeCourt #Referendum #Constitution
Episode 75 Sam Martinez Washington State University freshman, Sam Martinez, died of acute alcohol poisoning after a fraternity pledge ritual. While the university initially stated they had no culpability in Sam's death, his family would take their case all the way to the Washington Supreme Court….and win. To learn more about hazing on campuses, visit Hazinginfo.org To listen to every episode of Campus Killings ad-free and get other benefits, simply visit our channel page on Apple Podcasts to get started with an AbJack Insider subscription. Follow Campus Killings on Social Media via the following: Facebook - Instagram - Threads - X Formerly Twitter - BlueSky - Tik Tok - Twitch - Youtube Or find ALL of our social media platforms with one link: https://linktr.ee/campuskillings Campus Killings is hosted by Dr. Meghan Sacks and Dr. Amy Shlosberg. Research and Writing by Abagail Belcastro Produced by Mike Morford of AbJack Entertainment ©2026 AbJack Entertainment -All rights reserved. This content is the sole property of AbJack Entertainment. Any unauthorized re-selling, re-purposing, or re-distribution, is strictly prohibited, and will be subject to legal action.
A major debate is unfolding in Washington State — combining income tax policy, government authority, and a high-stakes property rights lawsuit. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we break down two major developments:
Seattle’s Magnuson park will be getting regular police patrols. A Seattle burger joint is dealing with repeated break-ins. JD Vance has spoken out about the ongoing feud between the Pope and Trump. King County and Seattle get Washington’s worst air quality grades, failing on both ozone and particle pollution. // Washington Supreme Court bail proposal would gut pretrial rules, let defendants skip court. // A lying liar lies about ICE. An Olympic ice hockey coach used a fake COVID vaccination card to compete at the 2022 Winter Olympics in China.
Washington Supreme Court removes King County judge for forging document to save $10 on parking. Melania Trump delivered a statement on Epstein. A former dog kennel worker that beat a dog to death has pleaded guilty. // Big Local: An Amazon Flex driver in Pierce County was arrested for stealing packages. Bryson DeChambeau buys Bellevue golf tech startup Sportsbox AI in eight-figure deal. Lookout for dive-bombing owls at Point Defiance Park in Tacoma. // You Pick the Topic: With taxes due soon, some people are turning to AI to file their returns (but you shouldn’t).
A Washington Supreme Court ruling has affirmed that a topless political protest by Stevenson city councilmember Lucy Lauser was protected under the First Amendment, finding that nonsexual nudity does not meet the legal standard for obscenity. The decision draws a clear line between nudity and criminal conduct, reinforcing a distinction that sits at the center of ongoing debates over public expression, body autonomy, and the meaning of the human body in public space.More at www dot planetnude dot co. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.planetnude.co/subscribe
SPD chief Shon Barnes says that officers who help ICE violate policy and will face consequences, the Cascades might get a blizzard, and the Washington Supreme Court will get its first justice of Middle Eastern descent. It’s our daily roundup of top stories from the KUOW newsroom, with host Paige Browning. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gary Ernsdorff on the uptick of copper wire theft in King County — Crime and Punishment // Libbey Dean on the government shutdown // Jill Schlesinger on President Trump's next choice for Federal Reserve Chair // Charlie Commentary on why the Washington Supreme Court has veered steadily to the left // Senator Curtis King on expired car tabs and the state's transportation budget
Opinion columnist Nancy Churchill critiques a Washington Supreme Court order on public defense, arguing it creates sweeping mandates without funding and shifts costs onto rural cities, counties, and taxpayers, while calling on lawmakers to address the issue through legislation such as SB 5914. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-justice-for-none-court-hands-down-a-mandate-without-a-dime-to-fund-it/ #Opinion #WashingtonPolitics #PublicDefense #LocalGovernment #RuralWashington
After the Washington Supreme Court ruled that misleading subject lines can violate the state's Commercial Electronic Mail Act (CEMA), Skechers now faces a similar class action. The lawsuit claims the company created a false sense of urgency by announcing that sales would end — only to later extend them. This episode explores how the case underscores growing risks around email marketing and why brands should review subject line practices to avoid costly CEMA violations. Hosted by Simone Roach. Based on a blog post by Gonzalo Mon.
Gonzalo E. Mon Two years ago, we posted about a proposed class action lawsuit that accused Old Navy of spamming consumers with emails that included false or misleading information about the duration of sales. For example, the complaint alleged that the retailer advertised that a sale would only last one week, even though the sale continued the following week.
Listen to the Daily Global #News from Grecian Echoes and WNTN 1550 AM - China raised duties on US goods to 125% - US to hike duties on Chinese goods to 145% - European Union finance ministers will brainstorm today how to use that time to reach a trade deal with Washington - Supreme Court ruled that the Trump administration must “facilitate” the return of a Maryland man who was mistakenly deported to El Salvador
How much of tonight’s lunar eclipse will Washingtonians be able to see? Russia has agreed in principle to ceasefire. US soccer is cracking down on abuse of youth referees. // LongForm: GUEST: Chris Sullivan on the latest text toll scan. // Quick Hit: The Washington Supreme Court just ruled on a case that could impact self-service retail.
The Washington state legislature is looking to ban guns in even more places. The Washington Supreme Court struck down a challenge to signature verification on ballots. ABC News is shutting down FiveThirtyEight along with other jobs cuts. // Big Local: A 3.9 earthquake struck Port Angeles. Everett police are looking for a man that tried to kidnap a woman. A WSU astronomer says we’re going to have a ‘blood moon’ next week. A Bremerton boat builder is struggling with pauses in federal funding. // You Pick the Topic: Scientists have created a “Colossal woolly mouse” in preparation for recreating the woolly mammoth.
3pm: Metro to resume bus fare inspections: What to expect // Washington Supreme Court hands landlords major victory after CARES Act challenge // Starbucks lays off 1,100 corporate employees as coffee chain streamlines // President Says Workers Who Don’t Respond to Musk’s Email Risk Being Fired // 'It's just chaos': Local TSA employee gets conflicting messaging about job justification query // I Stand Corrected - Ask, Tell, Correct, or Yell at John about anything // Thoughts on Trump’s approach to Ukraine // Zelenskyy refuses to sign Trump’s rare earths deal — but official says pact is close // Gen-Z has rediscovered sabbaticals; dubbed them “micro-retirements”
Second Amendment: May Washington prohibit high-capacity magazines? - Argued: Tue, 14 Jan 2025 16:57:29 EDT
Washington Supreme Court nixes ban on safe injection sites // Seattle is close to picking transportation chief // Movie Review – The Favourite // Guest Rachel Sutherland discusses temporary spending bill passed to hopefully avoid government shutdown // Hanna in studio talking about anti-gun stuff // Guest Mayor Jon Nehring discusses success of law enforcement embedded social worker program