Washington Republican Leaders Praise Democratic Governor, Call for Bipartisanship in Budget Talks

In a political climate often defined by partisanship and division, a rare moment of bipartisan praise emerged during a Republican press briefing this week, as GOP legislative leaders in Washington state commended Democratic Governor Bob Ferguson for his strong stance against excessive taxation in ongoing budget negotiations.

During the briefing, Senate Republican Leader John Braun and House Republican Leader Drew Stokesbary took aim at what they described as “economy-wrecking” tax proposals coming from Democratic majorities in the legislature. Yet amid the criticism, both leaders voiced support for Governor Ferguson’s recent public comments opposing a wealth tax, new spending reliant on overly optimistic revenue forecasts, and the use of the state’s rainy-day fund.

“I think the governor is actually providing the majority an opportunity here to self-reflect and correct themselves,” said Senator Braun. He emphasized that while Republicans don’t agree with the governor on everything, Ferguson’s willingness to engage in meaningful discussions and push back on his own party’s more extreme proposals is “a refreshing change.”

Representative Stokesbary echoed the sentiment, noting that Governor Ferguson “has some good ideas” and “was elected by a majority of Washingtonians,” implying he speaks for a broader swath of the public than some of the more left-leaning legislative leaders. “In this case, he is right, and they are wrong,” Stokesbary added, referring to Ferguson’s opposition to a wealth tax that Republicans argue would stifle innovation and economic growth.

The praise didn’t stop there. Republican leaders also acknowledged the governor’s commitment to maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency. Braun noted that Ferguson has “done a good job of meeting with us regularly during the session,” adding that the tone of those meetings has been constructive—even when disagreement exists. “It’s been a good conversation where I feel like the governor has earnestly listened,” he said.

In a time when political leaders often hesitate to acknowledge value in their opponents’ positions, this moment stands out as an example of what’s possible when public service trumps party loyalty. “We finally have a governor that is engaged and cares,” said Stokesbary. “And it would behoove the House and Senate Democratic leadership…to open those lines of communication better.”

This display of bipartisan respect comes as budget negotiations intensify in Olympia, with only weeks left in the legislative session. Republicans have warned against tax proposals they argue would burden working families and small businesses, and they hope the governor’s bottom lines on fiscal restraint will prevail.

As debates rage over housing, taxes, and economic development, the acknowledgement of shared priorities between political rivals could be a welcome signal to voters exhausted by gridlock. At least for now, both sides seem to agree on one thing: Washington’s future is better served when leaders work together—and give credit where it’s due.