Making Washington a place to prosper.

Let’s not forget Inslee’s abuse of power, disregard for democracy

Let’s not forget Inslee’s abuse of power, disregard for democracy

As Governor Jay Inslee prepares to leave office in January, it’s a fitting time to reflect on his legacy. His actions during the COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, raise serious concerns about the precedent he set on wielding executive powers in Washington. For almost three years, Governor Inslee unilaterally dictated which businesses could remain open, imposed...

Innovative law enforcement technology being used to tackle vehicle thefts

Innovative law enforcement technology being used to tackle vehicle thefts

An innovative technology from Flock is being successfully utilized across the country in order to target vehicle thefts, including here in Snohomish County. While adhering to privacy laws, this new technology collects only objective vehicle data by way of Automated License Plate Readers, alerts law enforcement of wanted vehicles, and aids in crime-solving. This camera system does...

The Wall Street Journal: The High-Tax State Brain Drain

The Wall Street Journal: The High-Tax State Brain Drain

According to the Wall Street Journal, high tax states such as California, New York, and Illinois are losing high earning households to no-income tax states like Florida and Texas. In fact, these two states alone “attracted more than twice as many such households as any other state.”  But what does that have to do with...

Is the CCA accomplishing anything? Literally no one knows

Is the CCA accomplishing anything? Literally no one knows

Washington’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA) was supposed to be a bold step forward in the fight against climate change. Yet, over a year after its implementation, there’s no clear evidence of progress—and the cost to Washington families keeps climbing. Under the CCA, Washington introduced a tax on CO2 emissions aimed at funding projects that would...

Four initiatives give Washington voters a historic chance to weigh in

Four initiatives give Washington voters a historic chance to weigh in

This fall gives a unique opportunity for Washington voters to have a direct say in public policy.  A total of seven different initiatives have been qualified this year, with three already being passed into law during the legislative session (I-2081 concerning parental rights, I-2111 prohibiting income taxes in WA, and I-2113 restoring police pursuits). This...

[un]Divided: Murder victim’s granddaughter fights for justice

[un]Divided: Murder victim’s granddaughter fights for justice

The granddaughter of an 80-year-old dog walker who was murdered by an 8-time felon in Seattle says she hopes the crime will spark positive change and prevent future acts of violence. Melanie Roberts spoke to unDivided’s Brandi Kruse about her grandma, Ruth Dalton, and how the community can help honor her life.

By Brandi Kruse

Future 42 – Whatcom County announces new Project Director

Future 42 – Whatcom County announces new Project Director

Project 42 is pleased to announce Hannah Ordos as its new Future 42 Whatcom County Project Director. Ordos brings a wealth of leadership experience and love for her community through service to this role. You may recognize Ordos as she ran for the Whatcom County at-large council seat in 2023.  She is known for her commitment...

Washington 2024 Primary Election results: What you need to know

Washington 2024 Primary Election results: What you need to know

With turnout down 13.5 percentage points compared to the primary in the last presidential election year, nearly 6 in 10 Washingtonians opted not to return their ballots. In a state like ours with a top-two primary system – where the top two vote-earners advance to the general election, regardless of party affiliation – this lack...

[un]Divided: Ferry system in disarray ahead of holiday weekend

[un]Divided: Ferry system in disarray ahead of holiday weekend

After one ferry boat went down this week, riders were told to take a bus to another ferry terminal. Except sailings were cancelled there, too. With boats in need of repair, crew shortages, and unreliable schedules, it’s shaping up to be a disastrous Labor Day weekend for the state’s troubled ferry system. Watch unDivided five...

By Brandi Kruse

How did your state legislator vote this year? Learn more in our Snohomish County Legislative Session Recap

How did your state legislator vote this year? Learn more in our Snohomish County Legislative Session Recap

The 2024 Washington State legislative session included debate and action on several key bills affecting Snohomish County residents. This year was a “short session” of 60 days and was focused on policy bills as the Legislature does not adopt their biennial budget during even years. Some of the critical policies considered this legislative session included...

Washington’s $1.1 billion blunder: Audit uncovers massive mismanagement of federal COVID funds

Washington’s $1.1 billion blunder: Audit uncovers massive mismanagement of federal COVID funds

In a stunning revelation, a recent audit from the Washington State Auditor’s Office (SAO) has uncovered that Washington state agencies “mishandled” more than $1.1 billion in federal COVID-19 aid, as reported by The Center Square. Despite the significant mismanagement, the state’s response seems surprisingly nonchalant, portraying an attitude of “No worries! It’s not like they’re...