(OLYMPIA, Wash.) — The 2026 legislative session is underway in Olympia, and partisan divisions over the budget, law enforcement and health care are already on display.
Gov. Bob Ferguson delivered his State of the State address Tuesday, and it was much different in tone from his inaugural speech a year ago. In 2025, Ferguson pledged to work with Republicans, show restraint on taxes and curb his own emergency powers.
That did not happen, as progressive leaders in the House and Senate pushed the governor toward more liberal policies.
This year, Ferguson used his opening address to outline Democratic priorities and largely sidestepped Republican concerns about taxes and the budget.
Tensions rose further when House Speaker Laurie Jinkins delivered her remarks. She spent much of her time blaming the Trump administration for problems in Washington state, prompting some Republicans to walk out.
It sets the stage for what could be one of the most partisan sessions in recent memory.
PLUS: How can the state close a multibillion-dollar budget gap?
AND: Some of the most interesting policy proposals from the first week.
Guests include Paul Queary, editor of the Washington Observer.
The Northwest Politicast with Jeff Pohjola: From this Washington to that one, Jeff Pohjola explores the politics and issues of the week. Frequent guests and top analysts break down the news to get to the heart of what matters most.
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