Harger: Gov. Bob Ferguson is a two-time state chess champion. Washington politics is his board now

This opinion piece analyzes Governor Bob Ferguson’s political strategy heading into 2026, covering statewide issues affecting Washington residents. Key points include how the income tax ballot language (Initiative 645) swings voter opinion by 18 points, Ferguson’s two Supreme Court appointees running as incumbents in a year when the court may rule on income tax constitutionality, and potential Democratic gains in the legislature. While regional in scope, the piece focuses on state-level politics and policy rather than Burien-specific issues.