EPISODE · Apr 20, 2026 · 21 MIN
Socialism Is Working in Seattle: 13,000 JOBS Lost in 2025
from News For Reasonable People · host Sean Reynolds
A new report from the Downtown Seattle Association (DSA) reveals a concerning trend: businesses are rapidly leaving downtown Seattle. Despite positive indicators like decreasing crime and increasing tourism, the city lost over 13,000 jobs in 2025. DSA CEO Jon Scholes attributes this decline to high taxes and stringent salary requirements, prompting businesses to relocate to cities like Bellevue. The report indicates that 35% of Seattle's office and retail spaces are currently vacant, signaling a fragile economic state. Scholes is urging city officials to reconsider the current tax structure to encourage job growth and prevent further economic decline. Seattle's future hinges on addressing these challenges and fostering a more business-friendly environment.
What this episode covers
A new report from the Downtown Seattle Association (DSA) reveals a concerning trend: businesses are rapidly leaving downtown Seattle. Despite positive indicators like decreasing crime and increasing tourism, the city lost over 13,000 jobs in 2025. DSA CEO Jon Scholes attributes this decline to high taxes and stringent salary requirements, prompting businesses to relocate to cities like Bellevue. The report indicates that 35% of Seattle's office and retail spaces are currently vacant, signaling a fragile economic state. Scholes is urging city officials to reconsider the current tax structure to encourage job growth and prevent further economic decline. Seattle's future hinges on addressing these challenges and fostering a more business-friendly environment.
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Socialism Is Working in Seattle: 13,000 JOBS Lost in 2025
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