Longview Industrial Disaster: Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson ordered state and U.S. flags lowered after the Nippon Dynawave Packaging chemical tank implosion, as investigators assess the cause and the death toll remains among the deadliest workplace incidents in modern state history. Spokane Protest Trial: Three “Spokane 3” protesters were convicted on federal conspiracy charges for blocking an ICE transfer bus in 2025, drawing renewed debate over protest rights and whether prosecutions are politically motivated. Elections & Voting Mail: Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs criticized a USPS proposed rule on ballot mail as federal overreach, warning it could undermine states’ control over election administration. Federal vs. States on ICE Plates: The DOJ sued Washington and three other states over policies denying undercover license plates to federal agents, escalating the fight over immigration enforcement and agent safety. Sound Transit Overhaul: Sound Transit approved a revised ST3 plan to address a roughly $34.5B funding gap, keeping key Tacoma light-rail work on track while delaying or reshaping other projects. Seattle Gun-Violence Tactics: Seattle installed concrete barriers along Aurora Avenue after residents’ homemade barricades were removed, aiming to deter shootings and reduce spillover into side streets. Bothell School Safety Fight: Bothell students and parents pressed the school board to reverse its decision to end the SRO program, calling for data and accountability.