Washington lawmakers wrapped up the 2026 session late Thursday night, adjourning sine die after approving a supplemental budget and passing the state’s first-ever income tax, a 9.9% tax on income above $1 million. Democrats pushed through a $79.4 billion operating plan with no Republican votes, and critics argue it relies too heavily on reserves, one-time fixes and cuts while still leaving an $878 million gap for lawmakers to address next year. Washington Observer editor Paul Queary breaks down the session’s tax-and-spending shifts and warns the state’s fiscal outlook could get worse before it gets better.
PLUS: Gov. Bob Ferguson holds a post-session news conference and says he will sign the “millionaire’s tax,” with legal challenges expected. Ferguson also highlights a bill banning face masks for law enforcement, including ICE, saying masked detentions are “deeply un-American,” while Republicans argue the measure is largely symbolic and outside the state’s ability to control federal enforcement.
AND: The war in Iran is getting expensive fast, and the Trump administration may soon need Congress to approve additional funding. Capitol Hill correspondent Allie Pecorin explains how the Pentagon can draw on already appropriated money for now, but any supplemental request runs into Senate math: a 60-vote threshold means Democrats can demand public hearings and testimony from top administration officials before new war funding moves.
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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