OM DENNE EPISODE
Welcome back to Evergreen Perspective. In this episode, host Ben Christly sits down with Washington State Senator Adrian Cortes, who represents the 18th Legislative District in Southwest Washington.
Senator Cortes shares what it has really been like transitioning from local government in Battle Ground, including three terms on city council and a term as mayor, into the pace and pressure of Olympia. He breaks down the reality of governing during session, from the volume of constituent communication to how bills move and where compromise actually happens beyond the headlines.
From there, the conversation dives into several of Senator Cortes’ pre-filed Senate bills for the upcoming session, with a focus on practical impacts for families and communities:
- SB 5849 (Financial education graduation requirement): Why personal finance belongs in the core high school experience, how districts can implement it flexibly, and what success looks like for students after graduation.
- SB 5848 (School district impact fees): How impact fees work today, what changes this bill proposes for districts in binding conditions, and how to think about growth, infrastructure, and housing affordability in the same conversation.
- SB 5823 (Patient advocates): The constituent story that sparked the proposal, what “patient advocacy” is meant to solve inside large hospital systems, and how the bill is designed to avoid unnecessary burdens on hospitals while improving navigation for families.
- SB 5876 (False identification as a peace officer): Why impersonation is an increasing risk, how it affects public trust and safety, and what the bill aims to strengthen.
The episode closes with the show’s recurring segment, “You’re Welcome to Politics,” where Senator Cortes describes a moment from his time as mayor during COVID when politics turned personal, including protests at his home and intimidation that crossed the line. He also explains how he stays grounded and focused in an increasingly polarized environment.
If you want to follow along this legislative session, Senator Cortes shares where to find his official legislative page and how constituents can contact his office.
Watch the full conversation on YouTube or listen wherever you get your audio podcasts.
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