Washington State has lead a blazing path for independent electoral reform. While the state formerly had a blanket primary election in place, they now operate under a top-two open primary system. Washington is the only state to elect women as the Governor and to both Senate seats, an extraordinary achievement. The state is pretty evenly divided between Democrats and Republicans, but since 1988 has voted for the Democratic presidential nominee in every election. Washington is known for it’s superb parks and wildlife, a true outdoors state, with the Pacific Coast, impressive mountain ranges, and more. “The Evergreen State” attracts significant business, too. It is home to Microsoft, Starbucks, Costco, Amazon, and more. Per capita income in 2009 was $52,403, making it the 10th highest in the country.
San Jose officials voted unanimously to appeal a judge’s landmark ruling that city officials’ communications about official business are public records even if sent and received by private text, email,.
People younger than 21 in Washington state may no longer have to decide between alcohol poisoning and a minor in possession charge. There may soon be no law to deter them from calling 911 if they realize they drank…
Many people hear the phrase ‘open primary’ and assume that this is the most transparent and fair type of primary system. But, “open” primaries are still partisan elections in which nominees from each party are selected.
Federally licensed or insured financial institutions cannot legally support the recreational marijuana industry. Legal marijuana businesses are challenged.
The U.S. House of Representatives approved a bill to extend spending levels for the Coast Guard and reauthorize the Maritime Administration.
Three states became the first to successfully pass ballot measures to make gay marriage legal: Maryland, Maine, and Washington.
Four states have same-sex marriage on ballots this election, with voters in those states nearly split evenly on the issue.
