Washington Governor Bob Ferguson likely violated state ethics laws by allowing his former adviser, Mike Webb, to fly on a state plane for personal reasons, prompting an ethics investigation and potential hearings to determine if a violation occurred.
Brian Heywood, a Seattle-area hedge fund founder, has spent over $11 million since 2022 to promote conservative ballot measures in Washington, including parental rights and transgender athlete bans, aiming to influence state legislation and voter decisions.
Demond Williams, Washington's quarterback, is leaning toward returning to the Huskies after initially entering the transfer portal, amid ongoing negotiations and legal considerations related to his recent contract signing.
Demond Williams Jr., a Washington quarterback, unexpectedly entered the transfer portal after signing to return for his junior season, despite the school’s intention to keep him under contract, leading to potential legal disputes and significant implications for the program.
The US's plan to take control of Venezuela following a successful operation to capture Maduro remains unclear and complex, with uncertainties about how Washington will manage the country moving forward.
Starting January 1, Washington state lifts a 40-year exemption on a 10.3% tax on precious metals and coins, which could lead to higher prices and drive customers and businesses to neighboring states like Oregon and Idaho, potentially reducing state revenue and impacting local coin dealers.
Daycares across Washington face increased online scrutiny due to viral videos questioning their legitimacy, despite no evidence of fraud from authorities. Providers emphasize their legitimacy and call for respect and proper investigation, amid concerns over misinformation and safety threats.
A Powerball ticket purchased at H Mart in Lynnwood, Washington, won $50,000 by matching four white balls and the red Powerball in the December 27 drawing, with no jackpot winner; the current jackpot is estimated at $33 million, with the next drawing scheduled for December 29.
Washington state is on track to record its warmest December ever, surpassing the previous record set in 2023, despite a La Niña winter forecast. The region experienced above-average rainfall due to atmospheric rivers, which helped alleviate drought conditions in some areas like the Yakima Basin, although overall the state remains drought-stricken and on track for its fifth driest year.
The article discusses the impact of the Trump administration's immigration enforcement on farmworkers in Washington, highlighting fears, labor shortages, and legislative efforts to provide legal pathways for workers, amidst increased immigration arrests and reliance on temporary visas.
The political divide in Washington poses potential risks to the markets in the upcoming year, with concerns about how political tensions could influence economic stability and investment strategies.
A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to reinstate disaster preparedness grants, including funding for microgrid projects in Washington and Oregon, after they were abruptly halted in 2025. These grants, part of FEMA's BRIC program, aim to help communities prepare for disasters like wildfires and earthquakes, and their reinstatement is seen as crucial for rural hospitals and communities' resilience. The decision has brought hope to project leaders, despite concerns about potential appeals.
Oregon and Washington are set to increase their minimum wages in 2026, with Washington raising it to $17.13 an hour and Oregon adjusting based on inflation, both surpassing the federal minimum wage of $7.25. Experts note that while beneficial for low-income workers, these increases are unlikely to significantly impact overall affordability or wealth inequality, as only a small percentage of workers earn at or below the federal minimum.
The article highlights three $2 million homes in Savannah, Georgia, Topanga, California, and Washington, D.C., including an 1850 rowhouse in Savannah's Historic Landmark District, a 1970s house in Topanga, and a converted stable home in D.C., showcasing diverse luxury properties across different regions.
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson supports a proposed 9.9% income tax on residents earning over $1 million, aiming to raise $3 billion annually starting in 2029, contingent on legal approval and voter support, with plans to use the revenue for tax credits, education, and small business relief.