Jay Inslee Faces Backlash After Blaming Climate Change for Spokane Wildfires

A California-based law firm connected to former Washington Gov. Jay Inslee is investigating potential liability following the devastating Spokane wildfires. Singleton Schreiber, which recently established a presence in Spokane, says it is examining whether utilities or other entities could bear responsibility for wildfire damages and is encouraging victims to contact the firm. Attorney Rich Barker says the investigation remains in its early stages and that there is not yet enough information to determine whether utilities played a role. The firm's involvement is also renewing scrutiny of a proposed Washington wildfire victims fund. Inslee previously advocated for such a fund, arguing it could compensate victims, improve utility accountability and protect utilities from bankruptcy. Washington Republican Party Chairman Jim Walsh strongly criticized Inslee's connection to the firm and the proposed wildfire fund model. At this point, there is no evidence presented here that Spokane-area utilities were negligent, while authorities have separately arrested a suspect on suspicion of first-degree arson in connection with the Old Trails Fire. Washington in Focus examines the law firm's involvement, Inslee's connection, potential ratepayer implications and the growing political fallout from the Spokane wildfires. #JayInslee #SpokaneWildfires #SingletonSchreiber #WashingtonPolitics #Wildfire #WildfireLiability #WildfireVictims #UtilityLiability #JimWalsh #Spokane #WashingtonState #WashingtonNews #EasternWashington #OldTrailsFire #WashingtonInFocus #TheCenterSquare