Brandi Kruse Kicked Out of Portland Thorns + WA Paid Family Leave Payroll Tax Rises in 2027

Brandi Kruse is forcibly escorted from a Portland Thorns soccer game following a confrontation over girls' sports activism. Washington election regulators suspend restrictions on large last-minute campaign donations. And Washington workers face another payroll premium increase in 2027. On the October 26, 2026 episode of Washington In Focus Daily, The Center Square examines three major stories affecting Washington and the Pacific Northwest. BRANDI KRUSE REMOVED FROM PORTLAND THORNS GAME Undivided podcast host Brandi Kruse and other advocates wearing XX-XY shirts were involved in a confrontation at a Portland Thorns soccer match. Video shows security escorting Kruse from the stadium, while another attendee reports being pushed down stadium stairs. The incident raises questions about stadium security, fan behavior and the ongoing debate over transgender participation in women's sports. WASHINGTON SUSPENDS CAMPAIGN DONATION RESTRICTIONS On October 22, the Washington Public Disclosure Commission announced that it would suspend enforcement of restrictions on certain large contributions made shortly before elections. The decision affects contributions exceeding $75,000 to statewide campaigns and $7,500 to other campaigns under the specific provision at issue. The move comes just days before Washington voters decide major ballot measures involving income taxes, parental rights and girls' sports. WASHINGTON PAYROLL PREMIUM RISES IN 2027 Washington's Paid Family and Medical Leave program premium rate will rise to 1.2% of covered wages in 2027, triple its original 2019 rate of 0.4%. Elizabeth New of the Washington Policy Center discusses concerns about higher payroll deductions, program costs and whether Washington lawmakers could consider additional changes. WASHINGTON IN FOCUS DAILY Watch The Center Square for independent reporting on Washington politics, elections, public safety, taxes, jobs, affordability and government accountability. Get Washington state government and policy updates by text about twice a week. Text TCSWA to 206-944-3016. #WashingtonNews #BrandiKruse #WashingtonPolitics #WashingtonTaxes #PortlandThorns