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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
During the interim, I’ve been traveling across the 31st District meeting with constituents, groups, and local leaders. No matter where I go, one theme keeps coming up: Washington state has become too expensive.
I want to hear directly from you. Please take a few minutes to complete this short survey about affordability in our state. Your input and stories help me understand what real people are facing and help guide the direction you feel the Legislature should take in 2026.
The rising cost of living
Throughout 2025, Washington families and businesses have faced higher costs on nearly everything – from gas and groceries to housing, outdoor recreation, small business fees, and even insurance. These new taxes and fees, pushed by Gov. Ferguson and the majority party in Olympia, are making daily life more expensive and less affordable.
House Republicans offered a different path this year: proposals to limit property tax hikes, ease the tax burden on working families, encourage economic growth, and keep spending in check. You can read more about these priorities here. Unfortunately, these solutions were rejected, and we were left with the largest tax increase in state history. Learn more here.
Budget warning signs
The recent revenue forecast confirmed what legislative Republicans have been warning for months: despite record tax collections, the state budget is on shaky ground. Washington is now looking at about $1.5 billion less in revenue than initially expected. Overspending, not under-collecting, is the problem.
This budget mess wasn’t created in Washington, D.C. – it was created here at home by decisions made by Gov. Ferguson and the majority party. For years, the majority party has chosen higher spending, more taxes, and poor fiscal management. Now, instead of accountability, they try to shift the blame to the “other Washington.”
Health care cuts
Many of you have asked about health care costs and access. The majority party’s biennial operating budget cut more than $782 million from Medicaid – reductions that hit seniors, people with disabilities, and long-term care. Nearly all of these cuts fell on general medical care and essential services.
Let’s be clear: these cuts were not forced by the federal government. They were choices made by the majority party and Gov. Ferguson when they passed and signed their budget.
House Republicans fought to protect this funding. We offered an amendment to increase Medicaid funding to bring reimbursements up to Medicare levels, but it was voted down. At a time when health care access is already strained, the majority party in Olympia made decisions that deepen the crisis.
Moving forward
This is why the survey is so important. I want to hear your thoughts – whether you’re feeling the squeeze from rising costs or believe the state is on the right path. The survey is meant to gather everyone’s opinions, and I do my best work on your behalf when I have all the input and stories.
Thank you for the honor of serving you.
Sincerely,
Joshua Penner
