The progressive mayor of Seattle, Katie Wilson, has sparked controversy after jokingly saying 'bye' to high earners who might leave the city following the implementation of a new tax on the wealthy. The 43-year-old Democratic Socialist made the remark during an event at Seattle University earlier this month, responding to a question about whether progressive tax policies are an 'easy' and 'promising' solution.
Mayor's Remarks on Millionaire Tax
'I think the claims that millionaires are gonna leave our state are super overblown, if the ones that leave, "bye"', Wilson said, waving her right hand. The audience applauded her statement. Wilson argued that implementing such changes is not easy but welcomed the recent millionaire tax aimed at the super-rich. The tax, signed into law by Governor Bob Ferguson at the end of March, will impose a 9.9% hike on annual earnings over $1 million, effective from the 2028 tax year. Ferguson described the measure as 'historic'.
Business Concerns Raised
The move has drawn criticism from business leaders and Republicans. Microsoft President Brad Smith expressed concerns about Washington's business climate, stating, 'I'm probably more worried right now about the business climate in Washington than at any point over the last 30 years.' He warned that taxing businesses to stay could drive jobs away. State Republicans cautioned that large corporations like Starbucks and T-Mobile might leave. On Tuesday, Ferguson revealed he had a 'lengthy' conversation with Starbucks after the company announced plans to build a new headquarters in Nashville, Tennessee. He pledged to support the firm 'in every way possible'. Several other companies, including Amazon and Meta, have already cut jobs in the state.
Criticism of Mayor's Background
Wilson, who took office last year, has faced criticism for being out of touch after it emerged she regularly receives financial support from her professor parents for childcare. During her campaign, it was revealed that she and her husband spend $2,200 per month on daycare and another $2,200 on rent. Wilson acknowledged her privileged upbringing but said she became aware of it while attending public schools.
Seattle's Drug Crisis
Seattle's downtown area has become an open-air drug market, with encampments and drug users on the streets. During a visit earlier this year, the Daily Mail found neighborhoods like Beacon Hill, SODO, and Chinatown filled with drug users. Some locals praised Wilson after she allegedly instructed police not to arrest people for public drug use. Wilson denied giving such orders but works with City Attorney Erika Evans, who has made it harder to charge drug users. A memo from Evans on January 1 requires that those arrested for public drug use be referred to a diversion program offering treatment, with only 'acute or problematic' cases referred for prosecution.
