Gov. Ferguson promised WA bipartisanship. He isn’t delivering | Opinion

After Democratic Gov. Bob Ferguson delivered his inaugural address to the Legislature on Jan. 15, many of my Republican colleagues and I were hopeful. He acknowledged Republican priorities and called for bipartisan cooperation: “Let us listen to one another, without consideration for party, so that the strongest argument prevails.”

Disappointingly, months later, those words and his promises from that day ring hollow. Consider the following:

Budget and Taxes

Ferguson promised fiscal responsibility. Yet, he approved a $78 billion operating budget, an 8% hike, and the largest tax increase in state history — more than $9 billion in new and increased taxes. This budget is already projected to be in a major deficit, leaving difficult decisions for the 2026 legislative session.

Affordability Crisis

Ferguson claimed affordability was the top concern he heard from Washingtonians. But under his leadership, the crisis has deepened. Washington recently had the highest gas prices in the nation — 45% above the national average — and the third-highest diesel prices.

While the Democrats’ cap-and-trade program has added significant costs to a gallon of gas, Ferguson signed legislation raising the state gas tax from 49.4 to 55.4 cents per gallon — with an automatic 2% annual increase. Diesel taxes rose to 58.4 cents. These higher fuel costs drive up prices for groceries and other essentials.

Another bill, which took effect on Oct. 1, expands the retail sales tax to several new business activities. This has caused significant confusion for businesses and nonprofits, with new costs being passed on to consumers. Yet, another example of the majority party making life more expensive in Washington.

As Ferguson blames President Donald Trump’s tariffs, he signed the bills that caused these state tax increases.

Medicaid Cuts

Ferguson criticized congressional Republicans for Medicaid cuts. Yet, his own budget slashed Washington’s Medicaid funding by $782 million — including cuts to medical care, services for people with disabilities and seniors, and long-term care.

Ferries and Jobs

Ferguson acknowledged our broken ferry system, then awarded a $714.5 million contract to a Florida shipbuilder. That’s hundreds of good jobs unrealized, such as welders, pipe fitters, sheet metal workers, electricians, boilermakers — and hundreds of millions of dollars lost to another state’s economy.

Law Enforcement

In his inaugural address, Ferguson noted Washington ranks last in law enforcement officers per capita and praised Sen. Jeff Holy’s $100 million proposal to hire more police officers. He said, “Any budget I sign must include this funding.”

It didn’t. Democrats killed Sen. Holy’s proposal in the Senate.

Emergency Powers

Ferguson told Senate Republican Leader John Braun, “I hope to work with you to adopt reasonable limits on the governor’s emergency powers.” Yet, no legislation was passed.

Also, Democrats placed emergency clauses on 169 bills. These clauses prevent voter referendums and deny the public the final say on bills that pass the Legislature. Ferguson signed 47 of them, including one that gutted the Parental Bill of Rights.

Child Care and Early Education

As working parents struggle to find and afford day care for their children, Ferguson’s first budget reduced or eliminated funding for several vital child care and early learning programs.

Let’s be clear: This is not about political parties and pointing fingers. Republicans have repeatedly offered to work across the aisle — bill after bill, amendment after amendment. We have been willing to provide solutions, only to be rejected. This is about the people of the state of Washington. It’s about holding the governor and the majority party accountable.

My Republican colleagues and I hoped Ferguson would bring our state together as one Washington. He told us on Inaugural Day, “I’m not here to defend government. I’m here to reform it.”

Empty words have real consequences. Where is the reform?

Republicans believe our residents deserve better. We are ready to step up and provide the leadership necessary to make Washington a better place to live, work, and raise a family.

Ferguson, our state can no longer wait. It is time to fulfill your promises! Let’s fix Washington!

--Rep. Gloria Mendoza, R-Grandview, represents the 14th Legislative District.

This story was originally published October 15, 2025 at 5:00 AM.