SCOTUS Redistricting Twist: The U.S. Supreme Court accepted another challenge to Washington’s 2024 legislative maps and sent it back for review under new Voting Rights Act standards—meaning WA political boundaries could be redrawn again, though not before the 2026 midterms. State Supreme Court Race: A high-profile contest pits Colleen Melody, a Ferguson appointee, against Scott Edwards, a tax-focused opponent—where the fate of Washington’s high-earners income tax could loom over the campaign. Income Tax “Safe Harbor” Fight: A state advisory group is wrestling with how the new WA income tax handles penalties for people who unexpectedly owe the tax, with critics warning there’s no “safe harbor” protection for first-time recipients. Tacoma Budget Crunch: Tacoma leaders are weighing major cuts to jobs and programs to close a $40M deficit, including potential reductions to community safety initiatives like the CSO and HOPE Team. Spokane Voter Mood: A new Pulse survey finds Spokane County sentiments have slipped again, with homelessness and crime concerns rising after earlier spring improvements. Public Safety in Seattle: Police arrested a suspect after a machete attack at Hing Hay Park left two people injured. Tumbler Ridge Case: Federal authorities say a Bellingham resident helped coordinate the Canada school shooting, including alleged planning and money for the attack. Nonprofit Expansion: Seattle-based Lifelong announced a statewide expansion to boost access to health care and food for people with chronic illness, HIV/AIDS, aging, and disability. Data Center Backlash: Protesters in Walla Walla are pushing for a statewide data center moratorium, citing water and environmental concerns tied to Amazon’s planned build-out. Workers’ Initiative Ruling: A Tacoma panel ruled the city must put a Workers’ Bill of Rights initiative to voters, saying the council failed to follow a charter requirement.