Politics Newhouse pursues legislation to stabilize Washington farm workforce Congress is considering a new bipartisan immigration reform bill that would shield undocumented agricultural workers from deportation. by Mai Hoang / May 22, 2025 / Updated May 23, 2025
Investigations WA lawmakers walk back agreement to end child support garnishment Legislators voted last year to stop intercepting payments meant for low-income families. Now with a budget deficit, they plan collections through 2029. by Brandon Block / May 15, 2025
Politics Washington parties, voter advocates craft 2026 midterms strategy As Republican legislators opt for ballot harvesting, Democrats lean into town halls in predominantly red districts to engage new or reluctant voters. by Mai Hoang / May 5, 2025
Investigations New Washington energy chair’s industry ties raise ethics questions Former energy consultant Kurt Beckett now heads the agency tasked with permitting his ex-clients’ wind and solar plants. by Brandon Block / April 30, 2025
Politics How will tariffs impact WA’s trade-dependent agriculture industry? Washington fruit growers were hit hard by Trump’s first-term tariffs, and experts and legislators fear further erosion of trust with trading partners. by Mai Hoang / April 22, 2025 / Updated April 23, 2025, 9:05 a.m.
Politics Central and Eastern Washington brace for possible Medicaid cuts In the 4th District, represented by Republican Dan Newhouse, upward of 70% of those under 19 are enrolled in government-funded insurance programs. by Mai Hoang / April 3, 2025
News Can Spokane’s shelter network program help alleviate homelessness? The new scattered-site model includes a system of smaller shelters, averaging 30 beds, connected to health services and drug treatment. by Mai Hoang / March 17, 2025 / 2:55 p.m., March 18, 2025
Investigations The obscure state agency that referees WA’s green energy battles The Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council has power to overrule local zoning laws – putting it at the center of a backlash to renewable energy. by Brandon Block / March 4, 2025
News How Washington communities are responding to ICE deportation orders At least 4% of state residents are undocumented, according to Pew Research. Here is how officials and advocates are responding and planning ahead. by Mai Hoang / February 13, 2025
Politics How a $22M judgment against Cle Elum pushed the city to bankruptcy The Central Washington city’s expensive dispute with a Seattle-based builder illustrates the challenges of crafting long-term development agreements. by Mai Hoang / February 6, 2025