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Private Interests, Public Office

jemzpierson
6 days ago
2 min read

Updated: 5 days ago


I’ve been looking at the campaign contributions reported by my Republican competitor and my own campaign. The difference is striking.

 

His funding largely represents private industry interests, including Chevron, oil and gas companies, data centers and other large businesses. Mine comes from individuals, workers, educators and local Democratic organizations.

 

My campaign has nearly three times as many individual and community contributors. Together, they have given more than twice as much as his individual and community contributors.

 

Nearly one-quarter of his funding comes from corporations, business groups, and owners or officers connected to oil, gas, tobacco, data centers and timber. Much more comes from insurance, real estate and other large businesses.

 

I am not against these industries. I am against the potential influence their contributions can bring to political decision-making. These industries have a direct financial stake in climate policy, energy production, emissions, water use and environmental regulation.

 

This is not theoretical. My opponent has advocated pausing the Climate Commitment Act because of its estimated 35-cent effect on a gallon of gas. Pausing the CCA would effectively shut down programs and cause layoffs, taking our eye off the commitment to improving our environment.

 

I say pause the war with Iran. Better yet, don’t start it.

 

Washington’s statewide average gas price rose by nearly $1.90 per gallon between January and May 2026. Compare that with the CCA’s estimated effect of about 35 cents per gallon.

 

I will not abandon our environmental commitments, but I will demand that every dollar produce measurable results.

 

Can the CCA be improved? Absolutely. Every CCA-funded program should receive a report card answering three questions: Is it reducing emissions? Is it creating green jobs here in Washington? Is it preparing our communities for the dramatic changes in weather patterns we can already see coming?

 

During more than 3,000 door-knocking visits, the environment has consistently been a top concern. People are worried about wildfires, data centers consuming enormous amounts of electricity and water, and gas turbines and diesel generators polluting their communities.

 

This is not the time to retreat from climate action. It is time to double down, demand results and prepare Washington for what is coming.


Campaign contributions do not prove that a candidate has promised anyone a particular vote. But voters deserve to know who finances each campaign and whose interests may be heard after the election.

Businesses deserve a voice in government. They should not have a louder voice than the people who live here.


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