The Problem with Washington State Government That Could Break Real Estate

Washington just passed something voters rejected for nearly a century — a 9.9% income tax on households earning over $1 million. And here's the part almost nobody caught: you can't overturn it by referendum. The legislature wrote a clause into the law that blocks that path, and the state Supreme Court backed it up.In this episode, Anton and Benji follow the money from the State Capitol all the way down to your neighborhood listing. They dig into the $77.8 billion state operating budget (up from $33 billion just 13 years ago), the millionaire tax's real mechanics, and who's actually funding both sides of the fight — including the public-sector unions spending millions to defend a tax that funds their own paychecks.They also break down:Why five Washington Supreme Court seats on the November ballot could decide the tax's constitutionality before the court even rulesThe lawsuits over the 15-word ballot disclosure statement, and who's suing whomReal data on capital flight — who's actually leaving, and what it means for luxury real estateWhy Seattle's real estate market is bifurcating, with luxury listings and sales exploding while the middle market coolsComments from former Governor Christine Gregoire and Kraken CEO Tod Leiweke — both lifelong Democrats — warning about a "spending problem"What all of this means for buyers, sellers, and investors heading into November 2026 and January 2028This is not a "how to vote" episode. It's the facts, the numbers, and the sources — so you walk into the ballot box informed.Mentioned in this episode: 🔗 Full Court Press (judicial candidate scorecards): fullcourtpresswa.org 🔗 Washington Policy Center budget data: x.com/WAPolicyGreen/status/1901733468520017998Get in touch: 📩 rsg.com 📞 425-249-0214About the ShowWelcome to the Anton Stetner Podcast, where we break down real estate, economics, investing, housing policy, and the trends shaping the future of the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Whether you're a homebuyer, investor, business owner, or simply trying to make sense of today's economy, you'll find practical insights, market analysis, and conversations with industry experts designed to help you make smarter financial decisions.🏡 Looking to buy, sell, or invest in Washington State real estate? Visit: RESG.com📩 Subscribe to our newsletter for market updates, housing trends, and investment opportunities.