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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
I hope this message finds you well. As your representative, my top priority is ensuring that Washington remains a place where families can thrive without being overwhelmed by rising costs. I’m committed to working across the aisle to find practical, commonsense solutions that make life more affordable, from housing and healthcare to transportation and everyday living expenses like gas and groceries.
Recently, I conducted a legislative priorities survey to hear directly from you about the issues that matter most to you. The response was significant, and the feedback was clear: affordability is the number one concern for Washington families. Many of you also expressed frustration with government spending and called for greater transparency and accountability.
House Republicans are working to address these concerns by focusing on policies that lower costs, reduce taxes and unnecessary fees, improve access to essential services, and help hardworking families keep more of their money. Your voice continues to guide my work in Olympia, and I deeply appreciate your input. Below are the survey results. You can also click here to view the graphs.
Survey Results: Here’s What You Said
Summary of responses for: Tell me more about your top priorities for the 2026 session. Do you have any ideas for legislation you wish to share with me?
Most respondents feel Washington residents are being financially squeezed and that government is overspending, inefficient, and unaccountable. Taxes, fees, and regulations – especially those tied to climate policy, fuel, property, vehicles, and payroll – are seen by a large share as the primary drivers of rising costs and people leaving the state. Many strongly reject any form of state income tax and argue the state has a spending problem, not a revenue problem, repeatedly calling for audits, cuts, and accountability.
Summary of responses for: Any experiences or additional details you’d like to share?
People are feeling financially squeezed, especially retirees and seniors. Rising property taxes, fuel and carbon fees, healthcare costs, and other expenses are making it hard for many to stay in their homes or afford day-to-day life. There’s a lot of frustration with government spending, waste, and lack of accountability, with many saying Seattle-driven policies don’t reflect the needs of the rest of the state. Healthcare is seen as unpredictable and overly expensive, and people worry Washington is heading down the same path as California. Overall, there’s a strong sense that things aren’t sustainable for long-term residents.
Summary of responses for: Please share your perspective.
People are frustrated with how expensive life is getting in Washington. Between rising taxes, hidden fees, and government spending that feels wasteful or ideological, many feel like they’re constantly being squeezed. Housing, schools, and public safety are major concerns, and some believe law-abiding citizens are being overlooked. On the flip side, some folks appreciate the state’s focus on the environment and progressive programs. Overall, everyone just wants accountability, common sense, and government that actually works for the people. There’s a real fear that if things don’t change, Washington could become too expensive to live in.
Summary of responses for: Anything to add?
People in Washington are frustrated with how the state is being run. They feel both parties are out of touch and more focused on politics than solving real problems. Taxes are too high, spending feels out of control, and there’s a lot of anger about waste and lack of accountability. People are concerned about things such as education, public safety, infrastructure, and fairness between urban and rural areas. Many just want lawmakers to work together, listen to constituents, and focus on common-sense solutions that make life more affordable and predictable for everyday people.
Summary of responses for: Tell me more.
Respondents are frustrated with how the state is handling money. Many think taxes are too high, especially for seniors and the middle class, while government spending often goes to programs that don’t seem to help anyone. Roads, schools, and basic services are a major concern, and many people see excessive bureaucracy, inefficiency, and waste. At the same time, some recognize that government work is important, but overall, people just want smarter spending, more accountability, and transparency. They want their tax dollars to actually make a difference in their communities.
Summary of responses for: Why would you support or oppose a state income tax?
Most respondents strongly oppose a state income tax. People feel the state already takes too much through sales, property, gas, and other taxes, and adding another would be unfair—especially for middle- and lower-income families. Many worry a new tax would start with the wealthy but inevitably spread to everyone. Others argue the state already has enough revenue if it just spent smarter and cut waste. Some would even consider leaving the state if an income tax passed. Overall, there’s frustration with government mismanagement, overspending, and a desire for accountability before any new taxes are introduced.
Majority Introduces New Income Tax
Despite opposition, the majority party introduced a bill this week to impose an income tax in Washington state, even though Washington voters have rejected similar unconstitutional income taxes 10 times. Here’s a summary of Senate Bill 6346:
- Levies a 9.9% rate on individuals with Washington taxable income over $1 million, which also captures many small businesses.
- Also applies to married couples who earn $1 million combined — not $1 million each.
- Projected to raise $4 billion per year.
- Amends the I-2111 law passed in Olympia in 2024 (Prohibition on Income Tax) to say the state income-tax prohibition does not apply to this act.
- Applies to income from public pensions (current law prohibits state and local taxation of such funds.)
- Begins in January 2028.
Thank You for Your Support
I am grateful for your input. I will continue working on real solutions in Olympia and fighting for policies that strengthen our communities and make Washington a better place for families to prosper now and into the future. Please stay engaged and continue reaching out to share your input.
It’s an honor to serve you!
Sincerely,
David Stuebe
