Gov. Ferguson Launches Campaign To Defend Washington Income Tax + Income Tax Repeal Gains Momentum

Washington's battle over the state's new income tax officially entered a new phase as Gov. Bob Ferguson launched the campaign urging voters to reject Initiative 645, the measure that would repeal the recently enacted tax on high-income earners. In this episode, Ferguson outlines why supporters believe the tax is needed to fund education, child care, and public services, while opponents—including Let's Go Washington, entrepreneur Brian Heywood, and tech founder Jesse Proudman—argue the tax is unconstitutional and could eventually expand beyond millionaires. The program also examines Washington's upcoming August 4 primary election, featuring an interview with Erika Craig, the Republican candidate running for the open Senate seat in the 42nd Legislative District. Craig discusses small business, education, and why she believes Olympia's policies are making it harder for employers to stay and grow in Washington. Featured Stories Bob Ferguson Washington income tax Initiative 645 Income tax repeal Let's Go Washington Brian Heywood Jesse Powell Washington politics 42nd Legislative District Erika Craig Washington Senate race August primary Small businesses Government accountability Subscribe for daily reporting on Washington politics, taxes, elections, public policy, and government accountability from The Center Square. #WashingtonPolitics #IncomeTax #BobFerguson #Initiative645 #Election2026 #WashingtonNews #SmallBusiness #TheCenterSquare #WashingtonInFocus #GovernmentAccountability