Dear friends and neighbors,
We are starting the second week of this 60-day session in Olympia, and it will be another difficult one. I think Speaker Jinkins’ opening ceremony remarks do a good job laying out the challenges we are facing and highlighting our commitment to Washingtonians by putting people first.
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Washington State Representatives recite the Pledge of Allegiance on the first day of the 2026 Legislative Session. Click here or on the photo to watch the opening ceremony.
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The governor’s proposed budget reflects the challenging moment our state is facing—but it also raises serious concerns. It includes cuts to essential services that families, students, seniors, and vulnerable communities depend on every day. These are not just numbers on a spreadsheet; they represent real people and real impacts on our communities.
Democrats in the House and Senate will push back against harmful cuts and work toward a budget that protects critical programs, meets our moral responsibilities, and invests in the long-term well-being of Washington’s communities.
But we cannot ignore the larger issue: Washington’s revenue system is outdated and insufficient. It is the second most regressive tax system in the nation, placing a disproportionate burden on individuals and families who can least afford it. The reality is that our current tax structure cannot keep pace with our state’s growing needs. It’s time to seriously consider our options and take action because Washingtonians deserve better.
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How Federal Cuts are Impacting Washington
As you know, with the passage and enactment of House Resolution 1 last year in the other Washington, we are looking at major federal policy changes that have real consequences for people across Washington state. These cuts are severely impacting essential services, leading to potential loss of Medicaid coverage for hundreds of thousands, significant reductions in SNAP food benefits, increased strain on hospitals and food banks, as well as cuts to student loan assistance programs and clean energy incentives.
This session, we are actively working to mitigate these cuts by expanding Apple Health, investing in behavioral health, and protecting essential services and safety net programs to help lessen the impact of these cuts on our most vulnerable communities.
The Office of Financial Management has a website, updated on a monthly basis, that provides specific information on what’s changing, who is impacted, and when these changes take effect.
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Video Update
I recorded my first video update of the session last week. Click here or on the image below to watch it:
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Your Voice Matters
Effective representation starts with listening. To better understand your priorities and concerns, please consider taking a short survey and share what’s on your mind. Hearing directly from you helps inform my legislative work to ensure your voice is reflected in the decisions we make in Olympia. |
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Participate in Your Democracy
Things are very fast paced in short sessions, and it may be hard to keep track of the issues that matter to you. In this webpage you will find everything you need to navigate the legislative process and get involved.
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I will discuss the issues I am working on in my next newsletter, but for a quick and easy way to learn about my bills and see where they are at any given time, be sure to visit my Bill Sponsorship page.
Many thanks for taking the time to read my newsletter and for filling out my survey. Don’t hesitate to contact my office with your concerns, ideas and feedback.
Sincerely,
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