Investigations The WA ‘strike force’ chasing millions in COVID-19 relief fraud From a Spokane T-shirt scheme to a Nigerian unemployment scam, federal prosecutors are grappling with how to prioritize cases amid limited resources. by Brandon Block / May 3, 2023
Investigations Washington food banks brace for 'hunger cliff' amid SNAP cuts As food-stamp recipients see grocery budgets tighten, state proposals would shift money to already strained and short-staffed local services. by Brandon Block / February 28, 2023
Politics Recap: 5 key takeaways from the 9th Congressional District debate Democratic incumbent Rep. Adam Smith faced off against Republican challenger Doug Basler to discuss climate, crime and government spending. Watch the recording here. by Brandon Block / October 25, 2022
Politics Washington candidates spin contrasting economic narratives Is runaway spending driving inflation? Or did a strong state response rescue the economy from COVID collapse? by Brandon Block / October 11, 2022
News WA schools ask for more time to spend $2.6B in COVID relief Programs to address students’ social-emotional needs rely on continued access to the funds, superintendents say. by Brandon Block & Venice Buhain / September 27, 2022
Politics All former WA prisoners can now vote. So far, few have Of the 24,000 residents with felony records now able to vote, just 414 did so last fall. Advocates hope to increase registration and voter education. by Brandon Block / February 13, 2023
Investigations FCC broadband service maps disputed at thousands of WA locations States were given a narrow window to fix long-standing flaws before federal agencies divvy $42B in infrastructure funds. by Brandon Block / January 24, 2023
Investigations Can a $42B internet expansion plan close WA's digital divide? After billions in telecom subsidies, it may take a new public approach to connect some 'last mile' areas like rural Grays Harbor County to broadband. by Brandon Block / January 19, 2023
News Help us fact-check the FCC’s spotty broadband maps Look up your address to check the accuracy of the maps, which could impact up to $900 million in federal aid to Washington. by Brandon Block / December 9, 2022
News New state rules could expand public broadband in rural WA A proposal from Washington's Public Works Board would limit the power of private companies' objections to stall public broadband projects. by Brandon Block / November 17, 2022