Locke Warns State on Fiscal Discipline | Seattle News

Former Governor Gary Locke is sounding the alarm on Washington’s fiscal missteps, warning that lawmakers are dangerously misusing one-time funds to prop up ongoing programs — a recipe for future tax hikes or service cuts. Joining a growing chorus of Democrats and business leaders, including Seattle Kraken CEO Tod Leiweke, who calls the current spending spree unsustainable and eroding public trust, Locke urges a return to disciplined budgeting. Drawing on his own “Priorities of Government” strategy, he advocates ranking programs by necessity and funding only what’s essential — a move he says is critical as the state faces a looming budget shortfall amid conflicting revenue forecasts. The message is clear: without transparency and realistic planning, Washington risks deepening its financial crisis and losing voter confidence. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/63a0736bc9aebadd