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OPINION | Neglected Traffic Medians on Rainier Avenue South Point to Inequity in the South End

When Jillian Altizer travels to other parts of Seattle, she notices the resources present in other neighborhoods that the South End lacks — inequity that's evident in how a median on Rainier Avenue South is being "landscaped."

Senator Lindsey Graham: 1955–2026

The long-serving Republican, South Carolina's senior U.S. Senator, passed away on July 11th, 2026, due to an aortic dissection. He was known for his controversial stance on issues and close ties with Donald Trump, which came after he bluntly disavowed Trump before the 2016 presidential election. His death could seriously impact floor and committee dynamics in the United States Senate, leading to potential challenges for Republicans as they try to move their agenda before the midterms. Senator Lindsey Graham: 1955–2026 is a post from NPI's Cascadia Advocate, the journal of the Northwest Progressive Institute. Published continuously since March of 2004, NPI's Cascadia Advocate provides thoughtful commentary and analysis on regional, national, and world politics. Keep The Cascadia Advocate going by making a contribution to sustain NPI's research and advocacy here.

DOOM LOOP: Shrinking

Two outspoken local commentators resist the changing perceptions of Seattle.

The Roundup: Eddie Lin Defends a Delay-Busting Bill

In this week's edition of The Roundup, Mike Davis talks to Councilmember Eddie Lin about why he supports a bill that he says will eliminate delays in Council's decision-making process.

Maine Democrats press ahead with choosing a replacement nominee to face Susan Collins in 2026 U.S. Senate race

Oyster farmer Graham Platner has filed the paperwork to formally withdraw, clearing the way for a late-July convention as prospective replacements Troy Jackson and Nirav Shah contend with charges being laid at their doors. Maine Democrats press ahead with choosing a replacement nominee to face Susan Collins in 2026 U.S. Senate race is a post from NPI's Cascadia Advocate, the journal of the Northwest Progressive Institute. Published continuously since March of 2004, NPI's Cascadia Advocate provides thoughtful commentary and analysis on regional, national, and world politics. Keep The Cascadia Advocate going by making a contribution to sustain NPI's research and advocacy here.

Byrd Barr Place To Host Third Annual Community Block Party In Seattle

Byrd Barr Place is set to host its third annual Community Block Party in Seattle's historic Central District. The event will feature live entertainment, local vendors, children's activities, community resources, free food, and a backpack giveaway, aiming to celebrate the neighborhood's rich history, culture, and resilience while fostering community engagement.

Federal SAVE Plan Ends: Millions Face Increased Student Loan Payments

The federal government's Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) repayment plan has concluded, impacting millions of federal student loan borrowers. These individuals now face a September 29 deadline to choose a new repayment option, or they will be automatically enrolled in a standard repayment plan, a shift anticipated to result in higher monthly payments and increased financial pressure for many.

WA Commission Surveys Black Men’s Public Sector Experiences

The Washington State Commission on African American Affairs has launched a new survey, "Black Men in the Public Sector Workforce: Experience. Barriers. Solutions.," to address the documented lack of research on the workplace experiences of African American men in government, education, public service, and the nonprofit sector. This initiative aims to gather critical data to inform future policy recommendations and foster more equitable professional environments.

Washington is *still* one of the top states in the country for business, CNBC’s updated 2026 rankings say

It's once again narrative-busting time. Business network CNBC's latest Best States for Business rankings just got updated, and Washington remains a top state for business, coming in at number eleven. Washington ranked ahead of every other Left Coast state and every other state in the Pacific Northwest, including Republican-run Idaho, Republican-run Montana, and Republican-run Alaska. Washington is *still* one of the top states in the country for business, CNBC’s updated 2026 rankings say is a post from NPI's Cascadia Advocate, the journal of the Northwest Progressive Institute. Published continuously since March of 2004, NPI's Cascadia Advocate provides thoughtful commentary and analysis on regional, national, and world politics. Keep The Cascadia Advocate going by making a contribution to sustain NPI's research and advocacy here.

ShibShib and Sushi Yoin Open and More Food News

Plus more restaurants to look forward to, including Gohan, Max's Burgers, and a Donna's sibling.

COLUMN | Seattle Had No Homicides in June. Don't Use It to Justify More Policing.

After Seattle's first homicide-free June in 56 years, Marcus Harrison Green asks who gets credit for safety — and who keeps getting cut.

REVIEW | In Hillman City, a Menu that Spotlights Northern Mexico Includes a Surprise: Hot Dogs