Show Notes
On this week's episode of Inside Olympia: The Spokane complex fire was just one of several large and destructive fires this summer. Our focus this week is on the changing wildland fire enviroment. The lessons learned from what happened this year. And what can be done to miitigate and prepare for future fire seasons. Plus, what are the implications of this year's fire season for the property-casualty insurance market? We ask that question and more of State Insurance Commissioner Patty Kuderer.
More from Inside Olympia
Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs discusses approximately 60 federal subpoenas for individual voter records ahead of the Nov. 3 election, federal enforcement actions in California and Washington's preparations for possible disruptions. The interview examines rising ballot rejections tied to Postal Service changes, reduced federal cybersecurity support and threats extending from Election Day through certification.
On this episode of Inside Olympia: Austin Jenkins discusses energy affordability and climate policy future with former State Senator Reuven Carlyle and Todd Myers of the Washington Policy Center.
Facing a tight 2027 budget, DSHS Secretary Angela Ramirez says the agency is pursuing a two-track strategy: scaling back spending while modernizing how it delivers services. Ramirez discusses potential program reductions, workforce constraints, an AI decision package and other efficiencies as federal policy changes add new costs and administrative demands.
Washington voters will elect five of nine state Supreme Court justices this fall, putting competing views of the judiciary before voters. It is the first time in modern state history that a majority of the high court is up for a vote in a single election cycle. Tim Kovis of Full Court Press and Andrew Villeneuve of the Northwest Progressive Institute and Northwest Progressive Foundation discuss judicial restraint, accusations of judicial activism, precedent and how voters can assess candidates who cannot say how they would rule in future cases.
On this episode of Inside Olympia: Austin Jenkins sits down with Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown.