Business leaders, policymakers, and former elected officials gathered in Vancouver for the 2026 Association of Washington Business Spring Summit to discuss Washington’s economy, tax policy, workforce development, and the state’s business climate.
Former Governor Christine Gregoire and former Attorney General Rob McKenna warned that Washington is facing growing economic challenges and encouraged stronger long term planning and employer engagement in public policy discussions.
Speakers highlighted concerns about rising state spending, new taxes, and increasing regulations. Discussions also focused on the state’s new income tax on households earning more than $1 million annually, with some business leaders expressing concern about potential impacts on small and midsize businesses structured as S corporations or LLCs.
The summit also featured a bipartisan conversation with former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan and former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel. Both emphasized workforce development, economic growth, and creating business friendly environments.
Additional sessions covered the 2026 legislative session, upcoming elections, and lessons from multigenerational family-owned businesses across Washington.
AWB.com – At Spring Summit, leaders warn Washington is at a ‘tipping point’
