Governor Ferguson Defends Income Tax As Repeal Campaign Grows

Washington's battle over the state's new income tax is entering a new phase as Gov. Bob Ferguson officially launches the campaign opposing Initiative 645, the ballot measure that seeks to repeal the recently enacted tax on high-income earners. With more than 511,000 petition signatures submitted, supporters of the repeal are awaiting certification from the Secretary of State to determine whether the measure will appear on the November ballot. If certified, voters will decide whether to keep or repeal Washington's newest major tax policy. In this report, Gov. Ferguson argues the tax will fund education, child care, and affordability initiatives, while supporters of Initiative 645 contend the repeal is necessary to protect Washington's economy, entrepreneurs, family businesses, and long-term investment climate. The episode also examines the organizations lining up on both sides of the campaign, including labor unions, business groups, and taxpayer organizations, setting the stage for what is expected to become one of Washington's most expensive and closely watched ballot battles. Featured Topics Washington income tax Initiative 645 Bob Ferguson Washington economy Washington taxpayers Small business Family businesses Tax policy Economic growth Let's Go Washington Washington Education Association NFIB BIAW Washington politics Government accountability Subscribe for daily reporting on Washington's economy, taxes, elections, public policy, and government accountability from The Center Square. #WashingtonPolitics #IncomeTax #Initiative645 #BobFerguson #WashingtonEconomy #Taxpayers #SmallBusiness #WashingtonNews #TheCenterSquare #WashingtonInFocus