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Politics and Government

Social housing advocates stand on the steps of Seattle City Hall with their house mascot.

How Seattle Social Housing Advocates Campaigned to Victory

House Our Neighbors led a campaign that overcame a flood of corporate cash against them. Here's how they did it, and what comes next to grow social housing in Seattle and ignite a broader movement.
A long line of legislators and other leaders standing on a new segment of SR 509 before a ribbon is cut

Legislature Considers Cutting Highway Expansion Projects to Address Budget Woes

In choosing how to fill a $1 billion budget hole over the next two years, Washington State lawmakers are being forced to take a hard look at deferring or even cancelling some long-planned highway capacity projects.
A group of about about 30 advocates stands on the Capitol steps.

Op-Ed: Why Housing Supply Advocates Should Support Rent Stabilization 

The Washington State Legislature should pass HB 1217 to stabilize rents statewide. This is an important moment for housing supply advocates to show up in support of more stability for tenants. 
Rinck is flanked by Seattle City President Sara Nelson and Tammy Morales.

Seattle and King County Grapple with Federal Disinvestment and Threats

Seattle and King County are reeling from both immediate and anticipated impacts from the second Trump administration. Seattle Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck and King County Councilmember Claudia Balducci are leading efforts to prepare for the volatility and protect community members. 
Harrell grips a lectern and wears a somber look during his speech at Benaroya Hall.

Op-Ed: Bruce Harrell Is a Failed Mayor on Public Safety

Ron Davis dives into Mayor Bruce Harrell's record on public safety and ultimately deems his approach a failure. On his third police chief, Harrell has not delivered on campaign promises and the Seattle Police Department is still reeling and lacking accountability.

New Chief Barnes Pledges Seattle Police Department Will ‘Return to Normal’

New Seattle Police Department Chief Shon Barnes outlined his strategy in a presentation to the Seattle City Council, pledging the department would put scandals behind it and forge ahead with new resolve.

Council Committee Greenlights SoDo Housing Proposal Despite Strong Port Opposition

The 3-2 vote in committee sets up a final decision later this month, but the Port of Seattle is suggesting they may take legal action against the move.

Op-Ed: Fund Washington Higher Education, Close Amazon/Microsoft Tax Loophole

Rep. Julia Reed's House Bill 1839 would bring in over $200 million a year for higher education in by closing a tax loophole benefiting Amazon and Microsoft. The money is sorely needed to curb tuition and raise enrollment.