Washington state residents will see a familiar face on the ballot campaign this fall. Ken Jennings, the record‑breaking Jeopardy! champion, has stepped into the political arena to support a “no” vote on Initiative 645, the measure that seeks to overturn the state’s recently passed income tax on millionaires.
Why the Tax Matters to Washington
Earlier this year the Washington Legislature approved an additional income tax on anyone earning $1 million or more annually. Proponents argued the tax would generate essential revenue for public services, especially after the state lost federal funding that some officials blamed on President Trump’s budget decisions.
State officials estimate the new tax could bring in more than $11 billion over the next decade, a sum that would help fund education, transportation, and health‑care programs. Supporters also note that Washington has seen a recent outflow of residents to lower‑tax states such as Idaho and Tennessee, a trend that the tax aims to reverse.
Initiative 645 and the Opposition
Opponents of the tax quickly organized a petition drive, placing Initiative 645 on the November ballot. The initiative would repeal the millionaire’s tax, returning Washington to its long‑standing stance of no state income tax.
Critics argue the tax could drive more businesses and high‑earning individuals out of the state, citing the recent relocation of Starbucks’ corporate headquarters to Tennessee as an example of the economic risk.
Ken Jennings’ Role in the Campaign
Jennings, best known for his record 74‑game winning streak on Jeopardy!, has produced a series of television spots and online videos urging voters to consider the broader impact of the tax repeal. In the ads, he frames the issue as a question of whether Washington can afford to cut vital services without the additional revenue.
“I’m a fan of fair competition on the quiz show, but I’m also a fan of fair competition in our economy,” Jennings says in one spot. “Keeping the millionaire’s tax means we can keep investing in schools, roads, and health care for all Washingtonians.”
Local Reactions
Community leaders and business groups have voiced support for the tax, emphasizing the need for stable funding. The Washington State Chamber of Commerce released a statement praising the tax as a responsible way to ensure long‑term fiscal health.
Conversely, several libertarian‑leaning organizations have criticized the measure as an overreach, arguing that it infringes on individual liberty and could set a precedent for further tax increases.
What Voters Need to Know
Initiative 645 will appear on the ballot in the November 2026 general election. Voters who wish to support the tax should vote “no” on the initiative. Those opposed to the tax should vote “yes” to repeal it.
The Washington Secretary of State’s office has provided sample ballots and voter guides that outline the fiscal projections and arguments from both sides. Voter turnout is expected to be high, given the broader national conversation about tax policy and state budgeting.
Looking Ahead
If Initiative 645 is defeated, the millionaire’s tax will remain in place, providing the projected $11 billion in revenue. If it passes, Washington will revert to its historic no‑income‑tax model, and state officials will need to find alternative funding sources for public programs.
Regardless of the outcome, Ken Jennings’ involvement highlights how public figures can influence state policy debates, especially on issues that affect families, faith‑based communities, and the broader economic health of the Pacific Northwest.
Original reporting: 580 KIDO Talk Radio (Boise) — read the source article.
