state-politics11.38 min read
Blakeman’s uphill bid: NY GOP trails Hochul despite Zeldin near-win precedent
17 days ago•Source: Politico
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Washington OKs 9.9% tax on millionaires to fund schools and services
Democrat-led Washington state Senate approved a 9.9% income tax on residents earning over $1 million to fund education, prisons, universal school lunches and other programs, with Gov. Ferguson expected to sign. Supporters cite budget pressures and public sentiment, while critics warn about potential business impact and legal challenges, including a ballot repeal effort and constitutional questions around how income is treated.
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Virginia court derails Democrats' midterm redistricting push
A Virginia circuit court blocked Democrats’ plan to redraw the state’s congressional map this year, ruling they bypassed proper procedures to approve a constitutional amendment and failed to meet notice and voting requirements in a special-session move; the ruling, if upheld on appeal, could prevent the mid-decade redistricting and potentially cost Democrats up to four seats in the 2026 midterms; Republicans hailed it as upholding the rule of law, while Democrats pledged to appeal and press ahead with map changes.
Sherrill takes New Jersey helm, pledges affordability and a stand against Trump
Mikie Sherrill was sworn in as New Jersey’s 57th governor and immediately issued executive orders to curb rising utility costs and expand energy supplies, framing her term as a push for affordability and a bulwark against Trump-era policies. The former congresswoman also faces a looming budget deficit of more than $1 billion as she charts a course with running mate Dale Caldwell, who was sworn in as secretary of state, with the inauguration held in Newark to emphasize outreach to diverse communities.
Spanberger Breaks Virginia's Glass Ceiling as First Female Governor
Democrat Abigail Spanberger was sworn in as Virginia's first female governor, signaling a new Democratic era in the commonwealth as Hashmi and Jay Jones were sworn in as lieutenant governor and attorney general, while Democrats gained seats in the House of Delegates and pledged to redraw the state's congressional map ahead of midterms.
Californian wealth tax roils the Democratic coalition
A proposed one-time wealth tax on California billionaires is squeezing the state’s Democratic coalition, straining unions and top donors while pitting Gov. Gavin Newsom against the measure. Some prominent Democrats and labor leaders back the idea as a tool to curb inequality, while others fear economic disruption and political backlash that could affect national and 2028 races. The proposal faces signature collection for the November ballot amid warnings of capital flight and revenue shortfalls, underscoring a high-stakes fight over how far the party should go to tax the ultra-wealthy.
DeSantis’ Florida finale teeters on a turbulent legislative sprint
With Gov. Ron DeSantis’ eight-year tenure ending, Florida’s closing legislative session looks likely to be messy as House–Senate clashes complicate an ambitious agenda: pushing a multibillion-dollar property-tax overhaul onto the November ballot, pursuing mid-decade redistricting in a special session, and advancing AI guardrails along with vaccine-mandate rollbacks—all of which could shape his legacy and his near-certain 2024 presidential bid amid a shifting GOP power dynamic.
Texas Compiles Transgender List via Driver's Licenses
The Texas Department of Public Safety has compiled a list of over 100 transgender individuals who attempted to update their gender on driver's licenses between August 2024 and August 2025, raising concerns about privacy and potential impacts on transgender rights amid recent restrictive laws in the state.
Pennsylvania Approves $50.1 Billion Budget and Exits RGGI
Pennsylvania's lawmakers and Gov. Josh Shapiro have approved a $50.1 billion state budget, ending a four-month impasse. The budget, the largest in state history, includes increased funding for public schools, investments in education, and the end of efforts to join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, with bipartisan support. However, it does not fund mass transit, and the delay has impacted counties, schools, and nonprofits.
Michigan Approves $81B State Budget with Road Funding and Program Cuts
Michigan lawmakers approved an nearly $81 billion state budget ending a months-long stalemate, boosting road and education funding, continuing free school meals, and cutting vacant government jobs, while excluding funding for a controversial copper mine and certain culture war issues.
Over 800 New Laws Take Effect in Texas This September
Over 800 new laws are taking effect in Texas, covering areas such as education funding, school vouchers, water infrastructure, and social policies, with some laws requiring future voter approval or delayed implementation, reflecting significant legislative changes in the state.