Radio Report: Republican leaders warn Democrat income tax plan fuels capital flight concerns

February 10, 2026

Republican leaders warn a proposed state income tax could push more residents and businesses to leave Washington, worsening affordability concerns. John Sattgast reports from Olympia.

SATTGAST: At a Republican leadership media availability Tuesday in Olympia, lawmakers warned Washington risks losing employers and taxpayers if a Democrat-proposed statewide income tax becomes law.

House Republican Deputy Leader Chris Corry says many small business owners already fear what comes next.

CORRY: “People know that this is not going to stop at millionaires… this will not be a millionaire’s tax for long… immediately impacting small businesses… and I’ve got a lot of people that are scared about that.”

SATTGAST: House Republican Floor Leader April Connors says she’s seeing signs of people leaving the state already.

CONNORS: “I just got another email this week… that they’re done and they’re moving to Montana. And I’m getting this weekly at this point in time.”

SATTGAST: Republican leaders argue higher taxes and rising costs are driving families and employers to look outside Washington as debate continues over the income tax proposal.

John Sattgast, the state Capitol.