Seattle and King County experienced a notable surge in tourism in 2024, with 40 million visitors contributing to $8.8 billion in spending, generating $839 million in state and local taxes. As the region prepares for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, Visit Seattle is set to launch a Certified Tourism Ambassador program, aiming to enhance the visitor experience and maximize economic impact.

The U.S. Supreme Court unanimously rejected a judicial doctrine that for years shielded law enforcement officers from civil liability in police shooting cases by allowing courts to assess force based only on the final moments before an officer pulled the trigger.

The Energy Star program, a voluntary initiative that has saved American households and businesses over $500 billion in energy costs and reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 5%, faces elimination under a proposal from Donald Trump. Critics argue that dismantling the program would primarily benefit fossil fuel executives, leaving American consumers without a vital tool for energy efficiency and cost savings.