Friends,

 

Another Democrat has engaged in sketchy campaign finance schemes while running for higher office. And, as always, we have you covered on what’s going on in your own backyard. Read on…

In this week’s Newsmaker Interview, Representative Joe Schmick (R-Colfax) discussed the recent federal court decision that fined the Inslee Administration $100 million for not providing legally required "competency treatment" for suspected criminals before they stand trial. The court case, known as "Trueblood," revealed that the state failed to provide mental health treatment within the required 21 days, leading to overcrowding in local jails and substantial court fines. Rep. Schmick highlighted the Inslee Administration's broader track record of failures in managing mental health policies, including issues with state hospitals, safety guidelines during COVID, and hiring a felon who later became the prime suspect in theft from patients. Read more.

 

This week’s top story…
Lisa Brown, a former State Commerce Director and state legislator, is running for Spokane Mayor, but her candidacy has been clouded by ethical concerns. Official emails suggest that she might have used state taxpayer money to aid her transition into local government. As there is no precedent for a cabinet-level state employee running for mayor of a major city, questions about the revolving door between public service positions are more than warranted. Local activist and blogger Robin Ball raised concerns about the propriety of Brown seeking the mayoral position after handing out multimillion-dollar contracts to the city during her time as Director of the Department of Commerce. Read this story and more.

 

In case you missed it…
Last week’s Newsmaker Interview featured Steven Strachan, Executive Director of WASPC. Strachan discussed his organization’s recent Crime in Washington report. The report indicated a nationwide drop in violent crime rates but highlighted a continued increase in Washington State. Furthermore, the state ranks last in police officers per resident, disproportionately impacting people of color. Strachan emphasized the importance of lawmakers considering these trends when developing future public safety proposals, addressing police recruitment, legislative fixes, and improving law enforcement's capabilities to pursue suspects. Read more.

 

Take a moment to enjoy the beautiful photography of Palouse Falls here in Washington State, courtesy of Former U.S. Rep. Rod Chandler.