Washingtonians Reclaim Their Voice: June 2024 Marks Turning Point in Citizen Power
The political landscape of Washington state is undergoing a seismic shift, with June 2024 standing out as a pivotal month in the growing citizen-led movement to hold lawmakers accountable. Let’s examine the key developments that made June a landmark month for citizen power in the Evergreen State:
Three Citizen Initiatives Become Law
Last year, millions of Washingtonians signed initiatives to put six matters in front of lawmakers. They ignored three of them (shirking their constitutional obligation to prioritize them), sending them to the ballot in November for voters to decide as a referendum. But to the surprise of many, they voted in favor of:
- Restoring local discretion for police pursuit
- Parental notification requirements for schools
- Banning state and local income taxes
On June 8, these three initiatives officially became law, all thanks to citizens using their voice and keeping their lawmakers accountable. While the other initiatives still faced obstruction, the passage of these laws sends a clear message – the voice of the people is growing too loud to ignore.
Whistleblower Wins Critical Legal Battle
June 21 marked a pivotal moment in the fight for government transparency. The Citizens Action Defense Fund scored a major win when a judge rejected attempts to dismiss former state employee Scott Smith’s lawsuit against the state. Smith, who refused to manipulate gas price projections related to the state’s cap and trade program, will now have his day in court.
Even the Wall Street Journal took notice, stating:
“Back at the office, the governor should have been giving Mr. Smith a promotion. If Mr. Smith’s complaint is accurate, the Inslee administration’s treatment of him was essentially the opposite.”
Real Solutions to Homelessness Gain Momentum
The homelessness crisis has long plagued Washington’s cities, but a new coalition is fighting back against failed policies. Over 60 lawmakers have now signed the “Real Solutions to Homelessness” pledge, rejecting the ineffective “Housing First” approach in favor of addressing root causes like mental health and addiction. You can find the signer list here.
Nate Nehring, head of Future 42’s efforts in Snohomish County, joined unDivided with Brandi Kruse to discuss. Watch that interview here.
Washingtonians Reject Natural Gas Shutdown
Newly released polling from the Rasmussen Group reveals that 60% of Washingtonians oppose Puget Sound Energy’s plan to discontinue natural gas service – a direct result of misguided state policies. The poll also highlights several statewide races and the initiatives, which The Center Square covered here.
There’s little better than these accomplishments to send us into the holiday that celebrates America’s freedom. While the fight for the three remaining initiatives goes on, and lawmakers continue to push policies that threaten Washingtonians’ wallets and well-being, the tide is undeniably turning.