Politics Battling a deadline, Washington Dems propose a new $12B tax plan After Gov. Ferguson said he would veto a “wealth tax,” Democratic legislators proposed expanding capital gains, business and property taxes. by Laurel Demkovich / April 16, 2025
Politics Poll: WA voters more politically engaged following 2024 election Over half of Cascade PBS/Elway poll respondents said they were paying more attention to political news during the second Trump administration. by Laurel Demkovich / April 15, 2025
Politics The cost of aging: How rent caps could affect Washington seniors Renters on fixed incomes hope a 10% ceiling on increases will provide relief, while older landlords worry it will force them out of business. by Laurel Demkovich / April 14, 2025
Politics Poll: WA voters say Trump is negatively impacting their lives A majority of Cascade PBS/Elway Poll respondents say the administration is bringing the wrong kind of change, citing the economy & threats to democracy. by Laurel Demkovich / April 10, 2025
Politics How would you fix Washington’s $15 billion budget crisis? Department cuts? Government employee furloughs? New taxes? Cascade PBS helps you break down Olympia’s various proposals for addressing the shortfall. by Laurel Demkovich / March 28, 2025
Politics Frank Chopp remembered as champion for WA housing & homelessness The long-serving state representative passed away unexpectedly on March 22. Colleagues recall his work and legacy, in Olympia and beyond. by Laurel Demkovich & Josh Cohen / March 26, 2025
News Dead or alive: Which bills have a chance this legislative session? After the crucial midpoint deadline, housing, safety and the environment are still pressing issues in Washington. But which will lawmakers prioritize? by Laurel Demkovich / March 14, 2025 / Update: March 18, 2025
Inside Cascade PBS The view from Olympia: Meet our new state politics reporter Laurel Demkovich wants to remind readers — and those in power — that behind every policy is a Washingtonian whose life will be impacted. by Laurel Demkovich / March 12, 2025
Politics Washington House passes ‘rent stabilization’ bill, moves to Senate House Bill 1217, which caps yearly increases at 7% of a tenant’s rent and creates limits on some move-in and late fees, passed 53-42 on Monday. by Laurel Demkovich / March 10, 2025
Environment Wildlife advocates skeptical of WA wolf count As the state considers removing the species’ endangered status, some argue that the Colville Tribe’s recent population estimate is implausibly high. by Alex Brown & Laurel Demkovich Washington State Standard / July 16, 2024