Washington State Governor-elect Bob Ferguson, a Democrat, is proactively establishing a subcommittee within his transition team to directly counter the potential threat of ‘Project 2025′. This controversial initiative, spearheaded by the conservative Heritage Foundation and authored by several former Trump administration officials, outlines a far-reaching policy agenda that has sparked significant alarm. While President-elect Trump attempted to distance himself from Project 2025 during his campaign, labeling parts as “absolutely ridiculous and abysmal,” the governor-elect remains cautious.
Project 2025’s proposals are radical and extensive. They include replacing civil servants with Trump loyalists, dismantling the Department of Education, criminalizing pornography, eliminating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, slashing funding for Medicaid and Medicare, restricting access to abortion, implementing mass deportations, and infusing the government with Christian values. These proposals are seen by many as a direct threat to established civil liberties and democratic norms.
Ferguson’s newly formed subcommittee will be co-chaired by Jennifer Allen, CEO of Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates, and King County Councilmember Jorge L. Barón, a former executive director of the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project. This choice reflects a strategic move to address the potential impact of Project 2025 on vulnerable populations.
“We are preparing in case President Trump attacks Washingtonians’ core freedoms,” Ferguson stated. “We will keep Washington moving forward no matter what happens at the federal level.” This proactive stance emphasizes the governor-elect’s commitment to protecting the rights and freedoms of Washington State residents.
Despite pre-election assurances from former Trump officials that Project 2025 proponents would be excluded from the administration, several key figures associated with the initiative have been appointed to influential positions. This includes Russell Vought as director of the Office of Management and Budget, Tom Homan as “border czar,” Stephen Miller as deputy chief of policy, and Brendan Carr as chair of the Federal Communications Commission. This has further fueled concerns about the potential implementation of Project 2025’s agenda.
Allen, in a statement released to Fox 13, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating that this is a critical time, and she is honored to safeguard the rights of Washingtonians. Barón, echoing similar sentiments, emphasized his commitment to protecting all residents, particularly those at greater risk under a potentially altered federal landscape.
Ferguson’s office has confirmed that this subcommittee will establish key policy priorities for his first 100 days in office, although specific policy proposals are yet to be publicly unveiled. The creation of this subcommittee signals a significant escalation in the political landscape, reflecting a proactive defense against the perceived threats posed by Project 2025’s policies. The coming months will undoubtedly be pivotal in determining how Washington State will navigate these potential challenges.
