The Government Affairs Desk examines public policy based on evidence, outcomes, and real world impact. The primary focus is Washington State and local governance, where policy decisions most directly shape daily life, costs, and opportunity.

These editorial standards are operational, not aspirational. They define how analysis is conducted, how criticism is applied, and how accountability is maintained across all work published by the Desk.

Evidence Over Ideology
Policy is evaluated based on what it does, not what it claims to represent. Arguments grounded in data, institutional structure, and observable outcomes are prioritized over partisan framing or ideological alignment. No political party, officeholder, agency, or advocacy position is entitled to deference.

Outcomes Over Intent
Intent matters, but outcomes matter more. Well intentioned policies can produce harmful results. Competently executed policies can succeed despite political controversy. Goals, mechanisms, and results are examined separately.

Credit Where It Is Earned
Effective leadership is acknowledged wherever it occurs. When policymakers or institutions take meaningful steps that reduce costs, improve access, or address real constraints, that work is recognized regardless of affiliation.

Accountability Without Dehumanization
Criticism is central to accountability. Dehumanization is not. Civility is understood as discipline, not silence or neutrality. Strong disagreement is expected. Personal attacks, name calling, and motive speculation without evidence are not part of this work.

Civility as Governance Discipline
Every functioning system relies on shared restraints. Civility allows disagreement without collapse and accountability without chaos. When restraint disappears, trust erodes and outcomes suffer, especially for those with the least power.

Focus on Implementation and Cost
Coverage prioritizes how policy is implemented and who ultimately bears its costs, including attention to regulatory structure, administrative process, timelines, fees, and unintended consequences.

Scope
The Desk focuses primarily on Washington State and local policy. National developments are covered when they materially affect Washington through funding, regulation, or implementation.

These standards exist to protect the integrity of the work and the seriousness of the discussion. This is not a platform for outrage or performance. It is a space for disciplined analysis grounded in reality.