House and Senate Republicans say majority Democrats are pushing an income tax and spending plan that could deepen Washington’s budget troubles.
With just over a week left in the 2026 session, House and Senate Republicans used their joint media availability Tuesday to warn that majority Democrats are advancing what they call an unsustainable operating budget and a risky new income tax.
House Republican Floor Leader April Connors says Republicans offered amendments aimed at affordability but were shut down.
“Our caucus doesn’t feel like that majority party has done anything to truly help with affordability in Washington.”
Republicans also criticized the proposed income tax on high earners, warning it could expand in the future and drive businesses out of the state.
House Republican Chair Peter Abbarno says employers are looking for stability – and not finding it in Olympia.
“Most businesses need some consistency for planning… I mean most business owners I’ve spoken to just are afraid of the unknown.”
Republicans say they are largely excluded from final budget negotiations and are urging the governor to press for more fiscal restraint before the session gavels out on March 12th.
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Washington State House Republican Communications