Overview: Discover what it takes to run for public office in Washington state, from filing for candidacy and raising campaign funds to meeting voters and handling the pressures of public life. Featuring insights from former state senator Laura Loveland and political consultants, this video explores the personal motivations, challenges, and rewards of campaigning for office. Viewers learn how candidates connect with communities, build trust with voters, and navigate the realities of modern elections while strengthening democracy through civic participation and public service.
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Overview: Out of the many Party Leadership roles, the Whip is perhaps the most commonly recognized, why is that? Go behind the scenes of Washington State’s legislative process to explore the role of the caucus whip. This video explains how whips help manage legislative floor operations, count votes, track member attendance, and coordinate communication within House and Senate caucuses. Learn why bills are rarely brought to the floor without enough support to pass, how whips work with lawmakers to address concerns, and why collaboration—not “arm twisting”—is often the key to moving legislation forward in Olympia.
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Overview: What does it take to turn an idea into a law? Meet some of the key people behind the scenes.
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Overview: Learn how to effectively participate in Washington State’s legislative process, including how to connect with state legislators, how to testify before a legislative committee, and why Washington is said to have an “open” legislature. Participating in Washington State’s legislative process may seem intimidating, but there are many ways citizens can make their voices heard. This video explores how people can engage with lawmakers through town halls, emails, committee testimony, advocacy groups, and direct conversations with legislators and staff. Learn why preparation, personal stories, facts, and relationship-building are essential for effective civic engagement, and discover how Washington’s open legislative process gives every resident opportunities to influence public policy and legislation.
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Learn about the history and function of the Washington State Constitution. Professor Hugh Spitzer discusses the ways in which the WA Constitution reflects the special concerns of its framers and the aspects that make it unique among state constitutions.
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University of Washington Professor Matt McGarrity teaches the debate technique known as “flowing” and emphasizes to voters the importance of taking notes when watching televised debates.
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Overview: What are the roles and responsibilities of Washington’s Insurance Commissioner? Learn about this statewide elected office with former WA Insurance Commissioner Deborah Senn. This video examines the role of the Insurance Commissioner, the person who runs the department that regulates insurance coverage sold to citizens ‘from cradle to grave’ in Washington State. By focusing on the consumer protection responsibilities of the department, the viewer examines the merits of this being an elected position. Essential Questions: Objectives:
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Overview: What are the roles and responsibilities of Washington’s State Treasurer? Learn about this statewide elected office with former WA State Treasurer Jim McIntire. By examining the issues that the State Treasurer deals with, students will understand the importance of maintaining a fiscally responsible government for the citizens of Washington State. Essential Questions: Objectives:
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Overview: What are the roles and responsibilities of Washington’s Commissioner of Public Lands? Learn about this statewide elected office with former WA Commissioner of Public Lands, Peter Goldmark. This video examines the role of the Commissioner of Public Lands, the person who runs the Department of Natural Resources in Washington State. By focusing on the responsibilities that the Commissioner has over the millions of acres of public lands, viewers will understand the importance the state of Washington puts upon the management of our natural resources. Essential Questions: Objectives:
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Superior Courts are the highest trial court in Washington State. They hear the most serious of crimes, felonies, as well as civil cases over $100,000. In this video, you will hear from Judge Loring of San Juan Superior Court and Judge Tutsch of Yakima Superior Court. They discuss the complexities of the cases they hear as well as the legislative boundaries in sentencing they must follow.
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