ISSAQUAH – Today, State Senate candidate Chad Magendanz responded to the latest revenue forecast showing a $720 million drop in projected revenue over the next four years, a direct result of the majority party’s unchecked spending and lack of budget discipline in Olympia. “Despite historic revenues and $9.4 billion in new taxes, the majority party still managed to drive us into a deficit,” said Magendanz. “They’ve spent everything, and then some, leaving just $80 million in cash reserves on a $79 billion budget. That’s not leadership. It’s financial malpractice.”

Magendanz, a former state representative and ranking member on the education committee, called out Democratic leaders for pushing through the largest operating budget in state history with no cushion and no bipartisan input.

“The majority party has killed the goose that laid the golden eggs,” said Magendanz. “Their outrageous tax hikes and reckless spending have finally triggered the drop in tax receipts they never believed would come. Those of us with common sense saw it coming. Now it’s here.”

The June forecast shows slowing growth in key revenue sources like sales tax and real estate excise tax, a warning sign Republicans say was ignored as Democrats continued expanding government without restraint.

“Our state will get through this, but only if we start working together,” said Magendanz. “The majority party in Olympia needs to take a hard look at what went wrong. It’s time to return to the bipartisan approach we use for transportation and capital budgets, where both sides have a real voice. That’s how we prevent disasters like this.”

Chad Magendanz is running for State Senate in the 5th Legislative District to restore balance, fiscal responsibility, and practical leadership to Olympia.