What do Realtors, teachers and unionized plumbers have in common?
According to Washington’s Public Disclosure Commission, these groups control the top political action committees in the state so far this year. So what exactly are they after?
For Realtors, housing supply and affordability are key issues. In the legislature, they oppose taxes on real estate transactions and want to reduce development costs. For the first time, the Realtors have eclipsed teachers to have the top funded PAC in the state with more than $1.6 million raised.
The Washington Education Association still comes in a close second. The state’s teachers union lists higher teacher salaries, an end to high-stakes testing and opposition to charter schools among its top issues.
A surprise contender takes the number three slot: a local union out of Pasco. Local 598 represents plumbers and steamfitters who work at the Hanford Nuclear Reservation where radioactive fumes and worker safety are key issues these days.
Trial lawyers, nursing homes, dentists and general contractors also make the list of top 10 PACs in Washington.
