A new effort to strengthen collaboration and civility in Olympia is underway after a University of Washington report found that many lawmakers viewed the 2025 legislative session as one of the most difficult in recent memory. The study, commissioned by the bipartisan Joint Select Committee on Civic Health, asked state senators and representatives to reflect on the past session and offer ideas for improving the culture of the Washington State Legislature.
The committee is focused on reducing polarization and encouraging more respectful engagement in public life. Interviews conducted by the University of Washington’s Evans School of Public Policy & Governance revealed deep frustration among lawmakers, who cited strained interpersonal relationships, outdated institutional structures and procedural barriers that hindered effective participation.
Despite the challenges, researchers say the shared sense of difficulty presents an opportunity. By identifying common problems across party lines, the committee hopes to support legislators in rebuilding trust, improving communication and strengthening civic health within the institution ahead of future sessions.