The Washington Post Editorial Board took aim at Seattle’s socialist mayor, Katie Wilson, for her remarks regarding the departure of affluent residents and increasing taxpayer frustration stemming from rising interest rates.
Just nine days after winning the mayoral election last November, Wilson joined Starbucks baristas on the picket line, pledging to boycott the company until the union’s demands were met. The board noted that “socialists will have to wait a little longer to get their caffeine fix,” referring to a harsh article titled “Seattle Mayor Says Farewell to Prosperity.”
The editorial discussed the shifting business landscape, highlighting recent closures of Starbucks locations alongside the company’s decision to expand significantly in Nashville, Tennessee, moving 2,000 jobs out of the Pacific Northwest.
Additionally, the board pointed out a recently introduced “millionaire tax” by Washington Governor Bob Ferguson, which proposes a 9.9% tax on anyone earning over $1 million annually.
“With the tax looming, former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz announced he and his wife are leaving Seattle for Miami—where there’s no state income tax,” remarked the board.
Wilson, known for her progressive activism and as a co-founder of the Transit Passengers Union, has long faced criticism for her bold policies, especially her support for a “solidarity budget” aimed at cutting Seattle Police funding by half.
The traditionally liberal outlet described Wilson’s approach to the city’s economic issues as “arrogant,” suggesting her criticisms lacked depth. In a recent speaking engagement, Wilson dismissed concerns about residents being unhappy with tax hikes, stating, “I think the claims that billionaires are going to leave the state are kind of wildly exaggerated.”
The editorial reflected on a video of Wilson cheerfully waving at a crowd, questioning, “‘And what if those who were leaving said goodbye?'”
The board characterized her attitude as increasingly representative of Washington’s political elite.
They also noted that significant industry figures share these apprehensions. Citing Microsoft President Brad Smith, who has expressed greater worry about Washington’s business climate now than at any point in the last 30 years, the editorial pointed to a growing sentiment among leaders.
This remark was made during a “Governing Through a Progressive Lens” forum at Seattle University on April 14, 2026. In this event, Wilson, alongside King County Executive Girmay Zahirai, aimed to bolster her socialist agenda and the new high-earner tax.
While participants raised questions about how an aggressive tax policy might undermine the city’s revenue base, Wilson’s dismissive tone and her “goodbye” comments have sparked widespread debate. Many critics suggest that her administration is purposely driving away successful residents for the sake of ideological conformity.
