Immigration & Legal Fight: New York AG Letitia James and a coalition of states and cities, including Seattle and King County, sued to block a Trump “public charge” rule that would let immigration officers deny green cards based on use of public benefits like food, housing, and health care. Local Education: Seattle Public Schools teachers and staff are close to ratifying a new three-year contract after months of talks, with about 10% wage growth and added student support staffing. Energy & Grid Planning: Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana face a major power build-out as AI, data centers, and electrification could drive electricity demand up sharply, but forecasts vary wildly. Business Expansion: Pacific Industrial is expanding across seven Western U.S. markets and named Bud Pharris CEO to lead development and acquisitions. Tech & Jobs: Microsoft is highlighting its Quincy, Washington data center’s long-run local economic impact, as the company pushes Frontier AI initiatives. Real Estate & Housing: Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson remains a renter and faces pressure over how fast her housing and public safety agenda is delivering for small businesses and renters. Public Safety & Policy: Washington lawmakers and local leaders are watching how federal policy shifts could ripple into local budgets and services.