As the 2026 Washington legislative session kicks off, Governor Bob Ferguson is putting his full weight behind a new state income tax – starting with a “millionaires tax” but opening the door to taxing everyday Washingtonians. In this hard-hitting interview on The Ari Hoffman Show, Washington State GOP Chairman and Representative Jim Walsh pulls no punches, recounting his direct confrontation with the governor during the ceremonial session kickoff. Walsh reveals Ferguson quickly named the state income tax as his top priority among proposals like the wealth tax expansion (taxing unsold assets) and a statewide head tax – policies Walsh warns will drive residents and businesses out of state, just like Seattle’s failed experiments.
Walsh also slams Democratic leaders for dodging accountability on credible allegations of massive fraud in child care subsidy payments by agencies like DCYF, the Department of Commerce, and others – including payments to nonexistent or shuttered providers. Instead of investigating, they’re attacking Walsh, journalists, and transparency efforts, including a lawsuit to preserve public records. With billions in unaccounted spending across state programs, Walsh argues it’s outrageous to push new taxes before fixing the leaks – echoing frustrated Washingtonians who say: stop the waste, then talk revenue.
Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation on why these policies could spell economic disaster for the Evergreen State. Listen now to hear Rep. Walsh break it all down and why Republicans are ready for the fight through the end of session!
