House Republican leadership responds to the Office of Financial Management’s Tariff Impact Analysis Report

House Republican Deputy Leader Chris Corry, R-Yakima, and Assistant Floor Leader Travis Couture, R-Allyn, released the following statement in response to OFM’s Tariff Impact Analysis Report and Gov. Bob Ferguson’s news conference yesterday: 

“Make no mistake: the greatest threat to our state’s economy isn’t Washington, D.C.—it’s Olympia.

“OFM’s report reads more like political spin than serious analysis. The truth is that the largest tax increase in state history, passed last session, is the most destructive tariff Washington families are facing today.

“Last session, Democrats passed $9.5 billion in new taxes, which Governor Ferguson gleefully signed into law. As a result, every Washingtonian is now paying higher prices for gas, utilities, housing, and groceries.

“Instead of acknowledging these painful realities, OFM’s report paints ‘Doomsday’ scenarios about the possible effects of $2.2 billion in federal tariffs while completely glossing over the far greater burden of Olympia’s $9.5 billion in direct state taxes.

“At best, the state’s budget office seems to lack an understanding of basic economic principles. At worst, they’re running a propaganda machine rather than working for the people of Washington.

“House Republicans reaffirm our commitment to advancing policies that create jobs, reward innovation, and strengthen Washington’s economy—without saddling families with higher costs.”

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Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov