Seattle Now Wednesday Evening Headlines
Jan 29, 2026
Amazon cuts a huge number of jobs and Seattle tech firms keep trimming staff. Starbucks simplifies its menu and sees sales rise. Community reactions flare over immigration enforcement and proposed funding threats. Tacoma arts and police leadership face big changes, and a local clinic ends gender care for minors. A UW study links cannabis use to more health complaints and dry January breaks with incoming rain.
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Pandemic Overhire Sparked Massive Amazon Cuts
- Amazon says it overhired during the pandemic, prompting the largest layoff in its history.
- Employees report managers are asking them to use AI to handle workloads after cuts despite CEO Andy Jassy saying roles won't be replaced by AI.
Expedia Joins Regional Tech Layoffs
- Expedia plans to cut 162 Seattle-based and remote roles to simplify structure and increase accountability.
- The company also reduced about 3% of its workforce last year, signaling continued tech downsizing in the region.
Starbucks Sales Up Amid Union Tension
- Starbucks' 'back-to' strategy of simplifying drinks appears to boost sales despite union protests.
- The company still faces pressure from unionized stores seeking better conditions and contracts.