The Raccoon Who Became a City Icon | Seattle News

Parties Gain New Power in Elections | Seattle News

The Supreme Court just handed political parties a major win—striking down limits on how much they can spend coordinating with candidates. With midterms looming, this ruling empowers parties to direct funds more strategically, as seen when the Democratic Party in Maine pulled support from a candidate facing serious allegations. While experts say total spending won’t explode (super PACs already dominate), the decision bolsters parties’ control over campaign money. Republicans cheered it as leveling the playing field, while Democrats warn of increased influence from wealthy donors and corruption risks. More money and coordination won’t guarantee victory—but it does shift power firmly into party leaders’ hands. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/ef757b0cb8a1fc63

Oregon Animal Ban Petition Falters | Seattle News

A radical animal protection petition in Oregon is on the brink of collapse after its first signature review failed—only 804 out of 1,000 signatures were valid, falling short of the legal threshold. If it doesn’t pass a second, larger review by early August, it’ll be the first time in years Oregon voters won’t see a citizen-led initiative on the ballot. The petition, backed by vegan activists and aiming to ban nearly all animal harm except for self-defense or veterinary care, gathered over 142,000 signatures—more than enough to qualify—but strict verification rules could still sink it. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/c8ba9a2b96e7248b

Idaho Ends Fiscal Year in the Black | Seattle News

Idaho ended its fiscal year with a surprising cash surplus, thanks to disciplined spending and a resilient economy despite recent tax cuts that slashed revenue. The state is starting the new fiscal year with a $250 million buffer — a rare win under its strict no-deficit constitution. But officials warn the good times won’t last, as next year’s budgets are expected to be tight, with agencies asked to submit bare-bones requests. Any extra funds will go toward critical priorities: payrolls, stalled infrastructure, schools, and wildfire response — all while keeping fiscal discipline front and center. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/437750a9844a2aee

Washington Primary Election Deep Dive | Seattle News

Washington’s primary election is heating up with ballots now out and voters stepping up to shape the state’s future—98 House seats, 24 Senate seats, and all 10 U.S. House seats are on the line, plus 688 offices and 80 local measures. With high stakes and historic turnout potential, every vote matters as top-two finishers advance to November. Watch key races like the open 4th District and the tight 3rd District battle. Vote by mail or drop off your ballot by Aug 4—register in person until Election Day—and even 17-year-olds can vote in candidate races if turning 18 by November. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/951d41980763c7fd

Leiweke Warns of Business Climate Woes | Seattle News

Tod Leiweke, driving the push to bring the SuperSonics back to Seattle and leading the Kraken, delivered a blunt warning to state lawmakers: while he’s fine paying the new high-earner tax, the real issue is Washington’s shaky economic management and a growing business exodus. Speaking at a major Seattle economic summit alongside big names like Uwajimaya’s CEO and JPMorgan Chase’s managing director, Leiweke voiced unprecedented business unease — a deepening doubt that the state is still a top place to invest. He also highlighted a troubling disconnect: average taxpayers feel they’re not getting value for their money, fueling broader skepticism about how public funds are being spent. The message? It’s not just about taxes — it’s about whether Washington’s financial future is still worth betting on. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/e50453791ea6e05f