The World Cup is underway, and Seattle is about to take its turn on the global stage. Jeff looks at the politics, economics and security concerns surrounding the tournament with reporting from Denise Whitaker, including her conversation with UW Bothell professor Ron Krabill, director of the UW Global Sport Lab. Krabill explains how soccer can be used as a tool for diplomacy and economic development, why the benefits of hosting are more complicated than a single visitor or revenue number, and how questions about security, protest rights, ICE and human rights are likely to follow the tournament from city to city.
PLUS: Seattle leaders are promising a new crackdown on violence, prostitution and sex trafficking along Aurora Avenue in North Seattle. KOMO’s Jeremy Harris breaks down the city’s plan, including targeted street closures, more visible police patrols, more gun-case prosecution and possible extreme risk protection orders aimed at people found with guns in the corridor. Scott Carty also highlights the “Poison the Fantasy” campaign, a local effort aimed at reducing demand for sex trafficking by forcing buyers to confront the damage their actions can cause.
AND: World Cup security will be intense, especially with Iran scheduled to play in Seattle during a period of heightened global tension. ABC’s Alex Stone explains what fans can expect around stadiums, hotels and fan zones, including no-fly restrictions, drone detection, federal air marshals and a zero-tolerance approach to unauthorized drones near World Cup events.
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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