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...
[un]Divided: Acclaimed chef closing Spokane restaurant over city’s drug and crime crisis
[un]Divided: Acclaimed chef closing Spokane restaurant over city’s drug and crime crisis
Chef Chad White says his restaurant has been broken into 20 times in the past eight years as drug use in downtown Spokane spirals out of control. He is pleading with city leaders to do something before more businesses close.
By Brandi Kruse
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
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...