News clips about Senate Republicans and our candidates

From The Association of Washington Business: September 2009
Hewitt Receives AWB Matson Award

More than 200 business leaders representing small, medium and large employers from around the state took time to honor their peers Wednesday at the Association of Washington Business's (AWB) Annual Policy Summit, held at Suncadia Resort in Cle Elum. This is the 20th year AWB has held this event, which features state and national speakers on issues affecting Washington's employers.

"For two decades now, AWB has looked to leaders within its own membership to help advance the mission of our organization, which is to create a positive economic climate where employers and citizens prosper. The individuals we recognize today have done this - and much more - particularly during this tough economic cycle," said AWB President Don Brunell. "We appreciate all they have done to improve the business climate in our state, and to ensure an environment where current businesses can grow, and new businesses can develop."

Brunell also presented the Jim Matson Award, the association's top award to current or former legislators who consistently support issues important to Washington's employer community. This year's award went to Senate Republican Minority Leader Mike Hewitt of Walla Walla, himself a former small business owner.

From The Everett Herald: Published May 3, 2009
Session defined mainly by what was cut

After several years of gleefully stoking their top priorities with state spending, the Legislature's Democratic majority flipped everything on its head in 2009. Instead of dividing up the spoils, they were taking from nearly everyone, and running out of friends as quickly as they ran out of money. The abiding sense of doom made it seem as if the session would never end.

From The Seattle Times: Published April 16, 2009
Democrats Introduce Sales Tax

Democrats have introduced yet another tax increase to pay for their reckless spending. The most recent proposal seeks to raise the sales tax by three tenths of a cent. The measure has the support of the House leadership.

From The Seattle Times: Published April 2, 2009
Senate Democrats Introduce Income Tax

Senate Democrats introduce 1% income tax despite worst recession in decades.

From The Seattle PI: Published March 17, 2009
Half of Washington voters 'open' to tax hikes

A new Elway Poll suggests at least 50 percent of voters would favor - or "accept with reservations" - five of seven tax increases being discussed in Olympia.

From The Seattle Times: Published March 15, 2009
State budget comes down to unpleasant choices

Hewitt was elected to a third term as Senate Republican leader on Thursday, a job he says allows him to influence policies to benefit his constituents back home.

From The Seattle Times: Published March 11, 2009
Labor Union Email Kills Employer Gag Bill

An email from a top union official threatening to withold campaign contributions sparked a police investigation and killed labor's attempt to restrict the ability of businesses to communicate with their employees.