Oops! WA Dems Blast ‘Radical’ Tax Plan to Entire Senate by Mistake!

In a stunning turn of events, Washington state Democrats seem to have inadvertently sent their comprehensive tax proposal — complete with internal strategies — to every member of the Senate in Olympia. Talk about a political slip!

Among the eyebrow-raising proposals are hefty property tax increases and a controversial double-digit tax on firearms, all stemming from materials initially circulated by Senate Deputy Floor Leader Noel Frame, a Democrat from Seattle, in a December email that has now come to light.

The circulated document, ominously titled “2025 Revenue Options,” included a PowerPoint presentation outlining how lawmakers should communicate these tax increases to their constituents — a must-read for anyone who cares about fiscal policy!

This treasure trove of political insight proposes a staggering 11% tax on ammunition and firearms, reclassifying storage unit rentals as retail, and even lifting property tax levy limits for certain residents. And to top it off, there’s a PowerPoint guide—highlighted by local radio personality Jason Rantz—titled “Best Ways to Talk Taxes” that features a guide on what lawmakers should say (and what they should definitely avoid saying).

Do say: “Pay what they owe.” But don’t use phrases like “tax the rich” or “pay their fair share.” The graph underscores that “taxes aren’t a punishment,” suggesting a more palatable narrative for those who might balk at tax hikes.

Instead, lawmakers are advised to use terms like “funding,” “providing,” and “ensuring” to highlight the supposed benefits of these tax increases. Forget vague phrases about “the economy” or “education.” Let’s get specific!

Among the more eyebrow-raising proposals is a “capital assets ownership tax,” which mirrors property taxes but extends to stocks, bonds, and other financial investments.

The rationale? “We can ensure that extremely wealthy Washingtonians are taxed on their assets just like middle-class families are already taxed on theirs,” the presentation claims. Talk about a redistribution of wealth!

Interestingly, lawmakers are encouraged to “identify the villain” impeding “progress” and lay out a clear strategy for tackling these perceived obstacles.

“We’ve got a tax code that’s upside down, benefiting the big corporations and the wealthiest few, rooted in a century-old system that desperately needs an overhaul,” reads one pointed remark. “If we make sure Washington’s wealthiest pay their fair share, the rest of us can access vital services like affordable healthcare, housing, and food.” Who wouldn’t want that?

Rantz, in his column, points out the glaring contradictions between these plans and the promises made by Democrats during the election cycle. He highlights the proposed ten new taxes on residents even as the state enjoys a revenue boom.

He argues that these “tax schemes” may even venture into unconstitutional territory, warning that capital gains taxes could stifle economic growth and diminish job opportunities for those same working-class individuals that pro-tax Democrats claim to champion.

One glaring example? The exodus of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos from Washington. After relocating to Florida, he reportedly saved about $1 billion in taxes that could have funded essential programs in the Evergreen State.

Rantz notes the irony of a Democratic electorate that frequently lament the affordability crisis yet continues to re-elect the very officials who exacerbate it.

Don’t miss out! Stay informed on the latest developments in your state!

As Democratic Gov.-elect Robert Ferguson prepares to take office, State Rep. Travis Couture, a Republican from Allyn, is not holding back on critiquing outgoing Gov. Jay Inslee’s 2025 budget proposal. “This budget is not a serious proposal,” he declared, emphasizing that “Our state has a spending problem, not a revenue problem.”

Stay tuned for more developments as we continue to track these pivotal changes that could reshape the economic landscape of Washington state!