Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Thank you to everyone who joined me for our town hall on Saturday, Feb. 21 at Columbia Basin College. I truly appreciate those who took time out of their weekend to come talk about what’s happening in Olympia and how it affects our community.
We had a strong turnout and, as always, thoughtful and direct questions. That’s exactly how it should be.
We discussed a wide range of issues, from the proposed income tax and the state budget, to public safety legislation, transportation funding, and education policy. Many of you asked about affordability and whether state government is living within its means. Others raised concerns about local control, the role of law enforcement, and how decisions made in Olympia impact families and small businesses here in the Tri-Cities.
I also heard questions about infrastructure investments, water projects, and how we ensure our region continues to grow responsibly while protecting agriculture and public safety. Those conversations matter. They directly inform how I approach debates on the Senate floor and in committee.
Senate proposed operating budget: A spending problem, not a revenue problem
Throughout this short legislative session, much of the work in Olympia has centered on supplemental budgets. In even-numbered years like this one, we do not write a brand-new two-year budget. Instead, we make adjustments to the existing 2025–27 spending plan to reflect updated revenue forecasts, new costs, and shifting priorities.
Washington operates on three primary budgets: the operating budget, the transportation budget, and the capital budget. The operating budget funds the day-to-day functions of state government: schools, public safety, health care, and social services. It receives the most attention and, this year, has generated the most controversy.