WA governor candidates talk abortion, the climate and Project 2025

Dave Reichert

I firmly believe that no politician, irrespective of personal conviction, should make this decision for any woman. This has been a law in Washington state for over half a century, and my career of upholding the law underscores my unwavering stance. I remain committed to that stance. I will not change any laws regarding abortion if elected governor. 

Bob Ferguson

Absolutely. I will always support reproductive freedom. I secured an important legal victory protecting Washingtonians’ access to Mifepristone, which is used in the majority of abortions. Our victory also protects access for residents of every state in our legal coalition. 

My strong record on these issues is why I’ve been endorsed by Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates and Pro-Choice Washington. 

In contrast, my opponent Dave Reichert is an “anti-abortion stalwart” who wants to “unravel” abortion protections, as reported by The Seattle Times on April 7, 2011, and on July 7, 2024. He voted for three nationwide abortion bans with criminal penalties for doctors and voted to defund Planned Parenthood. He cannot be trusted with the health and rights of Washingtonians. 

My website has a detailed plan on this issue — visit bobferguson.com. 

Dave Reichert

Lifetime appointments serve to shield justices from political pressures and momentary shifts in public sentiment, enabling them to concentrate on interpreting the law without unwarranted influence. This fosters constancy in legal interpretation and decision-making, fostering steadiness in the judicial system. Additionally, the profound knowledge accumulated through a lifetime appointment can enrich comprehension of intricate legal matters and the enduring impacts of judicial rulings. 

Bob Ferguson

We must strengthen conflict of interest regulations and limit the influence of powerful special interests on our politics — including the judiciary. Those who are responsible for crafting or presiding over the laws of our land should be held to strict ethical standards and complete transparency. As Washington’s Attorney General, I secured record penalties to combat dark money in politics. 

I am the only candidate who refuses to accept contributions from large corporations or corporate PACs. That way, the public can trust that I’m accountable only to them. 

I will never forget who I’m fighting for, and I will not be afraid to hold powerful special interests accountable to ensure we make progress for all Washingtonians. 

Dave Reichert

Drawing from my experience as a former law enforcement officer and sheriff, I firmly uphold the principle that no individual, including the president of the United States, is above the law. Justice Barrett’s dissent resonates with many, emphasizing that the rules of evidence are equipped to address such concerns on a case-by-case basis. However, I remain unconvinced that the recent ruling distinctly establishes this argument. Justice Roberts’ emphasis on the presidential responsibilities and the caution against “criminalizing the president’s conduct in carrying out the responsibilities of the executive branch under the Constitution” complicates the clarity of the case. This layered perspective underscores the nuanced nature of the issue and reinforces the need for a balanced and comprehensive approach to matters involving the highest office in the nation. 

Bob Ferguson

Nobody, not even the president, is above the law. I was alarmed at the recent, and dangerous, U.S. Supreme Court decision providing immunity for a sitting president. Trump is a convicted felon who deserves to be held fully accountable for his actions in and outside of office. 

As Washington’s Attorney General, I defeated the Trump Administration nearly 50 times in court and stopped his illegal actions. These legal victories ensured he followed the law and protected the rights of Washingtonians. 

Dave Reichert

I am not acquainted with Project 2025. Throughout my career, from serving as a cop, sheriff and a member of Congress, my commitment has always been to safeguard the well-being of Washington families. If entrusted with the role of governor, I am resolute in continuing this mission. 

Bob Ferguson

I strongly oppose the ideological foundation and policy objectives detailed in Project 2025. We must stop Project 2025 from becoming a nationwide reality. 

I am the only candidate for governor prepared to protect Washingtonians and our essential freedoms from Trump’s Project 2025. 

In contrast, my anti-choice opponent, Congressman Reichert, said he’s voting for Trump. He said, “I love Donald Trump’s policies” at a meeting of the Douglas County Republicans (The Seattle Times, “Will Dave Reichert vote for Trump? He gave his answer at a GOP event,” June 6, 2024.) He will enact the same agenda in our state. The stakes are too high to elect a governor who brags about owning a signed MAGA hat and who voted with Donald Trump 92.5% of the time while in Congress. 

Dave Reichert

Access to health care has become increasingly unaffordable over the past decade for numerous families in Washington, including those in Whatcom County, posing a significant challenge for many. As we witness the decline of health care providers and affordable options, it is evident that we must strive for improvement. Exploring new funding strategies and collaborative partnerships is essential to sustain and broaden coverage. Emphasizing telehealth, enhancing price transparency, adopting new health care technologies, and nurturing community affiliations are pivotal steps forward. Additionally, attracting highly skilled and dedicated health care professionals requires the provision of supportive workplaces, incentives and avenues for professional growth. Through these measures, we can work toward ensuring that all Washington families, including those in Whatcom County, have access to quality and affordable health care services. 

Bob Ferguson

Health care access is not adequate anywhere in Washington. It is critical we improve access to care in Whatcom County — including protecting local and regional hospitals, and access to affordable care. I am proud of my work to defend the Affordable Care Act. 

We must address the lack of competition. Improving competition in the health care industry will improve and reduce the cost of care. 

As governor, I will eliminate barriers that stifle competition and drive prices up. Primary care can save on health costs, but today too many patients can’t find a provider who meets their needs. 

I will work to grow our state’s primary care provider workforce and keep providers in our communities with increased reimbursement rates, loan repayment and other supports. 

By contrast, my opponent voted nearly 50 times to repeal or gut the Affordable Care Act, placing the care of nearly 1 million Washingtonians — and the jobs of medical professionals — at risk.