Seattle Now Tuesday Evening Headlines
Feb 18, 2026
A run-through of Mayor Wilson’s first State of the City address and her stance on expanded police cameras. Coverage of the Washington Senate moving a millionaires income tax forward. Explanation of the city attorney ending a practice that had kept one judge off criminal dockets. Updates on new state bills, improved revenue forecasts, storm damage requests, and light rail testing.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Mayor Weighs Surveillance Versus Safety
- Mayor Katie Wilson voiced balanced concerns about surveillance and public safety tensions in Seattle neighborhoods.
- She acknowledged CCTV's crime-solving value while noting data security and potential abuse risks raised during her campaign.
City Attorney Ends Judge Disqualification Practice
- City Attorney Erica Evans ended a practice of disqualifying Judge Pooja Vedati from criminal cases that began under Ann Davison.
- Evans called the prior practice misguided and said prosecutors will now only seek disqualification when fairness is at stake.
Millionaires Tax Sparks Sharp Debate
- The state Senate passed a proposed 9.9% tax on income over $1 million amid partisan disagreement.
- Supporters frame it as narrowing the wealth gap while Republicans warn of out-migration and limited benefit to middle-income residents.