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Hacks & Wonks

Hacks & Wonks is a show hosted by political consultant Crystal Fincher, who talks with Policy Wonks and Political Hacks to gather insight into local politics and policy in Washington state through the lens of those doing the work, with behind-the-scenes perspectives on what's happening, why it's happening and what you can do about it.

  1. 50

    State Rep. Chipalo Street Seeks 37th District Senate Seat

    State Representative Chipalo Street is running for the open 37th District Senate seat, emphasizing his record on progressive taxation, housing affordability, reparations, and immigrant protections as the district faces compounding pressures from federal policy rollbacks and a tight state budget. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Chipalo Street at https://electchipalo.com/.

  2. 49

    Week in Review: June 12, 2026 - with Erica Barnett

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Erica Barnett discuss: 🗄️ Data center moratorium 🚈 Link light rail ridership soars 🕸️ The whole KCRHA situation 🫶 CARE Department proposal As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Erica Barnett, on Bluesky at @ericacbarnett and on PubliCola.com.

  3. 48

    Tatiana Brown Makes Case for Open Senate Seat in the 37th District

    Tatiana Brown is running for the open 37th District State Senate seat on a platform of progressive tax reform, environmental justice, expanded public safety alternatives, and community-driven governance. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Tatiana Brown at https://www.tatianaforwa.org/.

  4. 47

    Week in Review: June 5, 2026 - with Jerry Cornfield

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Jerry Cornfield discuss: ⚖️ Developments in WA redistricting case 🧑‍⚖️ WA Supreme Court races ⚔️ Impending battle to be Speaker of the House 🔍 Rep Tarra Simmons faces ethics charges 😭 Tragedy in Longview ✊ Spokane 3 found guilty As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Jerry Cornfield at https://washingtonstatestandard.com/author/jerry-cornfield/.

  5. 46

    Jaelynn Scott Seeks Open State House Seat in Seattle's 37th District

    Jaelynn Scott is running for the 37th District House and shares her priorities, including progressive revenue, social housing, care-based public safety, and sanctuary protections for immigrants and LGBTQ communities. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Jaelynn Scott at https://www.votejaelynn.com/.

  6. 45

    Week in Review: May 22, 2026 - with Robert Cruickshank

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Robert Cruickshank discuss: ☕ Mayor Wilson, Starbucks, and business lobbying 🏳️‍🌈 Seattle to declare a state of emergency to support LGBTQ refugees 🚈 Sound Transit swings the axe at ST3 projects (vote is next Thursday, 5/28) 🚲 The NIMBY drama over Bicycle Weekends on Lake Washington Blvd As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Robert Cruickshank, on Bluesky at @robertcruickshank.com.

  7. 44

    Hannah Sabio-Howell Challenges Senate Majority Leader Pedersen in Seattle's Most Progressive District

    Hannah Sabio-Howell, a labor organizer and former Washington State Senate communications staffer, is challenging incumbent Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen for the 43rd Legislative District's state senate seat. The district, which covers Capitol Hill, First Hill, the Central District, and Madison Valley, is widely considered the most politically progressive district in the state. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Hannah Sabio-Howell at https://hannahforwashington.com/.

  8. 43

    Senator Jamie Pedersen Defends Millionaire's Tax, Budget Choices, and Progressive Record Ahead of Primary Challenge

    Washington Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen is running for reelection in the 43rd District. In this Hacks & Wonks interview, he defends his record and shares his priorities on taxes, education, child care, immigration & protecting Washington residents from a hostile federal administration. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Jamie Pedersen at https://peopleforpedersen.org/.

  9. 42

    Port Commissioner Toshiko Hasegawa Shares Vision as King County Council District 2 Candidate

    Port Commissioner Toshiko Hasegawa is running for the King County Council District 2 open seat and shares her priorities, including prioritizing criminal legal reform, affordable housing, child homelessness, and resisting federal overreach. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Toshiko Hasegawa at https://www.votetoshiko.com/.

  10. 41

    Rebecca Saldaña Makes Her Case for King County Council

    Rebecca Saldaña is leaving the State Senate to run for the open King County Council District 2 seat. She spoke with Hacks & Wonks about her priorities, including addressing the county's budget deficit, homelessness, public safety, transit equity, and environmental justice. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Rebecca Saldaña at https://www.rebeccasaldana.com/.

  11. 40

    Week in Review: May 1, 2026 - with David Kroman

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and David Kroman discuss: 🚧 Governor comms sign-off rule delays info flow 🧊 WA tries to gain access to privately-run ICE facility ❌ Calls for dissolution after KCRHA audit 🧒 Wilson expands free student meals and childcare 🚓 SPD Chief questions LEAD program 🛑 Judge halts law to oust decertified sheriffs   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, David Kroman at @kromandavid.

  12. 39

    Week in Review: April 17, 2026 - with Robert Cruickshank

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Robert Cruickshank discuss: ⚔️ Progressive Democrats take on moderate incumbents 🚈 Sound Transit 3 in crisis 🏘️ Mayor Wilson's housing proposals 💯 Katie Wilson's first 100 days 🧑‍🏫 Seattle Public Schools debates how to handle educator misconduct   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Robert Cruickshank, on Bluesky at @robertcruickshank.com.

  13. 38

    Week in Review: April 10, 2026 - with Erica Barnett

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Erica Barnett discuss: 📜 Accountability law enacted for sheriffs ⚔️ Court battle starts over millionaires' tax 🏛️ Wilson town halls on shelter proposal and surveillance 👮 Cops assigned to Magnuson ↔️ Opposing views at Comp Plan hearings   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Erica Barnett, on Bluesky at @ericacbarnett and on PubliCola.com.

  14. 37

    Why We're on a Reduced Schedule

    Crystal gives a quick update on the Hacks & Wonks schedule. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii.

  15. 36

    From Consumer Protection to Constitutional Defense: Nick Brown's First Year as AG

    Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown has focused on protecting state residents, filing 49 lawsuits against federal actions and prioritizing consumer protection and workers' rights during his first year in office. Join us for an inside look at the often unseen work of the Attorney General's Office.   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com.   Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Attorney General Nick Brown on Bluesky at @atg.wa.gov.

  16. 35

    Week in Review: January 9, 2026 - with Robert Cruickshank

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Robert Cruickshank discuss: 😡 WA still providing driver data to federal immigration agents 🌱 New Seattle electeds inaugurated 🤨 SPOG misleads on drug policy 🥳 Mike Solan out as SPOG president 🪓 Bob Ferguson proposes an income tax – and huge austerity 💸 Inslee criticizes Ferguson's raid on climate funding   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Robert Cruickshank, on Bluesky at @robertcruickshank.com.

  17. 34

    Rep. Shaun Scott Pushes Revenue Plan to Counter Austerity

    As Washington state braces for devastating federal budget cuts, State Representative Shaun Scott is leading a progressive revenue effort he says could protect critical services from austerity measures contained in the Trump administration's proposed budget. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Representative Shaun Scott at @organizewithshaun.  

  18. 33

    Rep. Chipalo Street on Tax Reform, Budget Deficits, and Federal Threats to Washington

    Washington State Representative Chipalo Street is entering the upcoming 2026 legislative session with an ambitious agenda that includes fixing structural problems in juvenile rehabilitation, reforming the state's regressive tax system, and protecting residents from federal overreach.  As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Representative Chipalo Street at housedemocrats.wa.gov/street/.

  19. 32

    Transit Riders Union Charts New Course After Katie Wilson's Election

    The Transit Riders Union faces a transformation as its longtime leader prepares to become Seattle's mayor. For over a decade, the grassroots organization has built power for working people across King County. With Katie Wilson headed to City Hall, TRU is navigating a leadership transition while positioning itself to push an ambitious agenda. Wes Mills, TRU's new General Secretary, discussed how the organization is adapting and what comes next. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii, find Wes Mills on Bluesky at @oowm.org, and Transit Riders Union at transitriders.org/.

  20. 31

    Week in Review: December 12, 2025 - with Shauna Sowersby

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Shauna Sowersby discuss: 🌊 Historic flooding across WA 🛡️ Protecting workers from immigration raids ⚔️ Legislature's public records fight continues 📉 County plans for Trump homelessness changes 💸 New SPOG contract = bad deal for Seattle   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Shauna Sowersby at @ssowersby.

  21. 30

    Seattle's Creative Economy at a Crossroads: Randy Engstrom on What's at Stake

    Seattle's creative economy drives 18% of city GDP but artists can't afford to live here. Randy Engstrom, co-leading Mayor-Elect Wilson's arts transition team, argues culture must be central to solving housing, education, and economic challenges - not treated as expendable when budgets get tight. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Randy Engstrom on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/randyengstrom/.  

  22. 29

    Week in Review: December 5, 2025 - with David Kroman

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and David Kroman discuss: ✂️ Ferguson budget relies on cuts 🧑‍⚖️ Trump sues WA 🏢 Affordable housing bailout 🔮 Significance of Wilson hires ✋ Eddie Lin sworn into Council 🚈 Light rail arrives in South King Co!   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, David Kroman at @kromandavid.

  23. 28

    Senator Rebecca Saldaña Maps Out Legislative Priorities for 2026 Session

    Senator Rebecca Saldaña is preparing for her 10th year representing South Seattle's 37th Legislative District with plans to address healthcare access, immigration protections, and Washington's budget shortfall. In a recent interview on the Hacks & Wonks podcast, Saldaña outlined her priorities for the January legislative session. She said her work remains grounded in the experiences of immigrant and refugee families, working people, LGBTQ residents, and those fighting displacement in her district. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Senator Rebecca Saldaña at @rebeccasaldana1.  

  24. 27

    Week in Review: November 28, 2025 - with Erica Barnett

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Erica Barnett discuss: ▶️ Mayor-elect Katie Wilson's transition ▶️ KC Exec Zahilay's staff review ▶️ Council hands a budget of Harrell's priorities to Wilson ▶️ Pipeline spill raises safety concerns ▶️ Is ICE using local surveillance in WA?   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Erica Barnett, on Bluesky at @ericacbarnett and on PubliCola.com.

  25. 26

    Decoding the 2025 Elections in Seattle and WA: An Insider's Analysis

    Washington state's 2025 elections saw progressives win across multiple cities and legislative districts, with people-powered campaigns and bold ideas beating out establishment moderates. Listen in to the Hacks & Wonks 2025 Post-Election Roundtable from Tuesday, November 11, 2025, as the strategists who saw it coming explain what pundits missed!   Panelists: Stephen Paolini, Principal at Bottled Lightning Collective Lexi Koren, Communications Consultant with PowerHouse Strategic Crystal Fincher, Executive Director of KVRU and Hacks & Wonks Host   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. You can follow Hacks & Wonks on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's special guests, Stephen Paolini at ‪@stephenpaolini, and Lexi Koren at @lexikoren.

  26. 25

    Week in Review with Robert Cruickshank - Seattle Elects Progressive Mayor Katie Wilson

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Robert Cruickshank discuss: 🤩 Katie Wilson elected mayor! 🌊 Progressive wave across region and state 👀 What to watch out for next 🏫 Role of Stranger school board endorsements ⚔️ Looking forward to legislative session   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Robert Cruickshank, on Bluesky at @robertcruickshank.com.

  27. 24

    Week in Review: October 10, 2025 - with Robert Cruickshank

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Robert Cruickshank discuss: ⚾ Mariners! 💸 Seattle wastes homelessness money ⛔ SPOG undermining popular CARE team 🚫 Seattle School Board rejects cop at Garfield 🗳️ Use dropboxes to vote!   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Robert Cruickshank, on Bluesky at @robertcruickshank.com.

  28. 23

    Week in Review: September 5, 2025 - with Melissa Santos

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Melissa Santos discuss: WA/CA/OR vaccine alliance Cell phones in schools Firefighter immigration raid = inside job Harrell pushes light rail extensions despite shortfall Autonomous vehicles pilot starts   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Melissa Santos at @melissajsantos.

  29. 22

    Seattle Moves Forward with Surveillance Expansion Despite Lack of Pilot Data, Raises Federal Access Concerns

    Amy Sundberg, public safety reporter for The Urbanist and publisher of Notes from the Emerald City, joins Hacks & Wonks to discuss how Seattle's City Council is poised to expand the city's surveillance pilot program before collecting any evaluation data on its effectiveness, raising concerns among privacy advocates about potential federal access to the data amid heightened immigration enforcement. The expansion, scheduled for a final council vote on September 9 at 2:30 p.m., would install new cameras in three areas and tap into Seattle Department of Transportation's existing network of traffic management cameras, adding more than 365 cameras total to the Seattle Police Department's Real-Time Crime Center.   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Amy Sundberg at @amysundberg.

  30. 21

    Week in Review: August 29, 2025 - with Robert Cruickshank

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Robert Cruickshank discuss: 🧊 Spokane blocks warrantless ICE action 🥡 $15m Uber Eats settlement 🛒 UFCW 3000 backs Wilson 🚲 Biker hit where safety upgrades were cancelled 🏫 School board updates 🪧 Protests against Microsoft use by IDF   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Robert Cruickshank, on Bluesky at @robertcruickshank.com.

  31. 20

    Hacks & Wonks 2025 Post-Primary Roundtable

    Hacks & Wonks hosted a 2025 Post-Primary Roundtable on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 to dig into the 2025 primary results - what they mean, how they happened, and what's next - with the people who actually do the work of winning (and sometimes losing) campaigns in Seattle and King County. Listen to the roundtable as a podcast or watch the recorded livestream on YouTube! By bringing together a panel of seasoned local political consultants who've been in the field, in the strategy rooms, and on the phones - not just pundits looking at numbers from a distance - they cut through the noise and spin to give insights not found in typical news coverage. Panelists: Riall Johnson, Principal Partner at Prism West Stephen Paolini, Principal at Bottled Lightning Collective Lexi Koren, Communications Consultant with PowerHouse Strategic Crystal Fincher, Political Consultant with Fincher Consulting and Hacks & Wonks Host   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available below and at officialhacksandwonks.com. You can follow Hacks & Wonks on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's special guests, Riall Johnson at @rialljohnson, Stephen Paolini at ‪@stephenpaolini, and Lexi Koren at @lexikoren.

  32. 19

    Week in Review: August 22, 2025 - with Erica Barnett

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Erica Barnett discuss: ⛪ Christian nationalist rally moves to new park 🤑 Police execs take bonus meant for officers 🛡️ Trump admin targets sanctuary cities – 📮 -- and vote-by-mail 🕵️ Tacoma ICE facility must open for inspections   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Erica Barnett, on Bluesky at @ericacbarnett and on PubliCola.com.

  33. 18

    Week in Review: August 15, 2025 - with David Kroman

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and David Kroman discuss: 💰 Seattle B&O tax overhaul proposal 📉 Seattle budget forecast 👁️ Seattle surveillance expansion ⚖️ Tacoma minimum wage initiative sues city ⚔️ MGP challenger in CD3 🗳️ Election results update   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, David Kroman at @kromandavid.

  34. 17

    Week in Review: August 8, 2025 - with Josh Cohen

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Josh Cohen discuss: ❤️‍🩹 A Hacks & Wonks update 🗳️ Primary election results! 👀 Seattle: Mayor, City Attorney, City Council seats 💵 Seattle Democracy Vouchers 🥊 King County: Executive, D5 Council seat 🤓 Takeaways   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Josh Cohen at @jcohenwrites.

  35. 16

    Week in Review: July 18, 2025 - with Robert Cruickshank

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Robert Cruickshank discuss: 🙅 End of Denny Blaine nudity 🗳️ Urbanist endorsements 🧑‍🏫 Sea Public Schools news 🐀 Hot Rat Summer 📸 Seattle police cameras ❌ Harrell cancels safety upgrades 💸 Business pours $ in WA Senate races   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Robert Cruickshank, on Bluesky at @robertcruickshank.com.

  36. 15

    Seattle's Democracy Voucher Program Faces Critical Renewal Vote in August Primary

    Seattle voters will decide in August whether to renew funding for the city's groundbreaking Democracy Voucher Program, the first and only system of its kind in the United States that gives residents public money to support local candidates of their choice. Proposition 1 on the August 5 primary ballot asks voters to approve a 10-year property tax levy to continue the program, which provides every eligible Seattle resident with four $25 vouchers annually to contribute to qualified candidates for mayor, city attorney, and city council. Estevan Muñoz-Howard was one of the original leaders of the 2015 campaign that created the Democracy Voucher program and continues his work as a democracy activist with People Powered Elections Seattle. Professor Jennifer Heerwig from Stony Brook University is the leading scholar studying the program's impacts. She's tracked its effects through multiple election cycles and recently published a book on her findings called Democracy Vouchers and the Promise of Fairer Elections in Seattle.   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com.   Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Estevan Muñoz-Howard on LinkedIn and Professor Jennifer Heerwig at https://www.jenheerwig.com/.

  37. 14

    Week in Review: July 11, 2025 - with Erica Barnett

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Erica Barnett discuss: ⚖️ No Wilson charges 💬 Pro-Harrell message testing poll 🔄 Moore replacement 👑 Bills expand Davison/Police power 🔎 Ask to end consent decree 🤖 PC Sheriff gets bad advice from ChatGPT    As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Erica Barnett, on Bluesky at @ericacbarnett and on PubliCola.com.

  38. 13

    Week in Review: July 4, 2025 - with Josh Cohen

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Josh Cohen discuss: 🎯 WA top target in Medicaid cuts 😬 KC Assessor Wilson arrested 🚔 Barnes confirmed as police chief 💰 Possible sales tax increase for public safety 🏗️ Rinck revives Morales' community dev program   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Josh Cohen at @jcohenwrites.

  39. 12

    Claudia Balducci Details Platform for County Leadership

    King County Executive candidate Claudia Balducci outlines her approach to the region's biggest challenges, emphasizing housing affordability, prevention-focused public safety & regional coordination. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Claudia Balducci at @claudiaforkcexec.

  40. 11

    Week in Review: June 27, 2025 - with David Kroman

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and David Kroman discuss: 👀 NYC mayoral race hints at Seattle's? 💰 Seattle biz tax revamp? 🚔 Pursuit GPS trackers & digital billboards 📷 License plate readers proliferate in WA 🏘️ Affordable housing industry crisis   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, David Kroman at @kromandavid.

  41. 10

    Girmay Zahilay Outlines Vision for Executive Role

    King County Executive candidate Girmay Zahilay details plans for the region's biggest challenges, including homelessness, public safety & housing affordability. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Girmay Zahilay at @girmayzahilay.

  42. 9

    Week in Review: June 20, 2025 - with Robert Cruickshank

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Robert Cruickshank discuss: 👑 'No Kings' protests ⚕️ WA immigrants' health data shared w/ feds 🏘️ Housing First works well 🚍 Saka erases advocates, makes deal w/ Curby 🤑 RealPage ban delayed 🎒 School waitlists lifted   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Robert Cruickshank, on Bluesky at @robertcruickshank.com.

  43. 8

    Week in Review: June 6, 2025 - with Erica Barnett

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Erica Barnett discuss: 👋 Cathy Moore resigning 🗳️ Kshama Sawant running for Congress 😬 KC Assessor John Wilson won't resign despite calls 🚔 Diaz/Tompkins updates 🏳️‍🌈 WA State Patrol interrupts Pride flag ceremony   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Erica Barnett, on Bluesky at @ericacbarnett and on PubliCola.com.

  44. 7

    Jeanie Chunn Outlines Vision for Seattle City Council District 2

    Jeanie Chunn, candidate for Seattle City Council District 2, shares her stance on housing affordability, public safety, transportation, and more while advocating for significant changes to the city's approach to public safety, housing, and budget priorities.   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com.   Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find more about Jeanie Chunn at votejeanie.com.

  45. 6

    Week in Review: May 30, 2025 - with Josh Cohen

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Josh Cohen discuss: 🏳️‍⚧️ "Protect Our Kids" anti-trans rally & counterprotests 📉 Every Seattle elected = negative approval 🏘️ Seattle's interim missing middle housing 🤦 Essential behavioral health facilities stymied   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Josh Cohen at @jcohenwrites.

  46. 5

    Eddie Lin Outlines Vision for Seattle City Council District 2

    Eddie Lin, running for Seattle City Council in District 2, shares his stance on housing affordability, public safety, transportation, and more while emphasizing his government experience and commitment to community-driven solutions. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find Eddie Lin at @linforseattle.

  47. 4

    Week in Review: May 23, 2025 - with David Kroman

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and David Kroman discuss: 🖋️ Ferguson acts on state budget, parental bill of rights 🧊 Troubling ICE raids 🤓 Seattle Mayor race deep dive 🔔 Sara Nelson bellwether 🗳️ Other notable primary races ⛺️ Rushed Tent City 4 move   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, David Kroman at @kromandavid.

  48. 3

    Jamie Fackler Outlines Vision for Seattle's District 2 Council Seat

    Jamie Fackler, running for Seattle City Council in District 2, shares his stance on housing affordability, public safety, transportation, and more while emphasizing his opposition to corporate influence in local politics. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find more about Jamie Fackler at https://www.jamieforseattle.com/.  

  49. 2

    Former Federal Prosecutor Erika Evans Launches Bid for Seattle City Attorney

    In an extensive interview with Crystal Fincher of Hacks & Wonks, Seattle City Attorney candidate Erika Evans outlines why she is challenging incumbent Ann Davison with a platform centered on community-based solutions, addressing root causes of crime, and protecting civil rights. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find more about Erika Evans at https://electerikaevans.com/.

  50. 1

    Week in Review: May 2, 2025 - with Robert Cruickshank

    On this week-in-review, Crystal Fincher and Robert Cruickshank discuss: 📊 Breakdown of Legislature's state budget 🧐 Ferguson's first four months 🤔 Mallahan can? What's up with Seattle mayor race 🚔 SPD hiring up but few women + another lawsuit alleging racism   As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky at @finchfrii and find today's co-host, Robert Cruickshank, on Bluesky at @robertcruickshank.com.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Hacks & Wonks is a show hosted by political consultant Crystal Fincher, who talks with Policy Wonks and Political Hacks to gather insight into local politics and policy in Washington state through the lens of those doing the work, with behind-the-scenes perspectives on what's happening, why it's happening and what you can do about it.

HOSTED BY

Crystal Fincher

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Hacks & Wonks have?

Hacks & Wonks currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Hacks & Wonks about?

Hacks & Wonks is a show hosted by political consultant Crystal Fincher, who talks with Policy Wonks and Political Hacks to gather insight into local politics and policy in Washington state through the lens of those doing the work, with behind-the-scenes perspectives on what's happening, why it's...

How often does Hacks & Wonks release new episodes?

Hacks & Wonks has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Hacks & Wonks?

You can listen to Hacks & Wonks on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Hacks & Wonks?

Hacks & Wonks is created and hosted by Crystal Fincher.
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