Washington state House Republicans announced in a news release last week they will issue a “House Republican Press Pass” to any journalist, regardless of political affiliation or ideology, who is denied press access to the House floor.
The decision follows the chief clerk’s denial of official floor press passes to three journalists who extensively cover the Legislature and state government: Brandi Kruse, Ari Hoffman and Jonathan Choe.
“Republicans believe the public has a right to know what is happening in the people’s House,” House Republican Leader Drew Stokesbary, R-Auburn, said in the release. “Transparency and accountability aren’t partisan values — they are foundational to representative government. At a time when people believe democracy is on the line, we believe the answer is more sunlight, not less.”
Under the new House Republican policy, any journalist denied floor credentials by House Administration will be granted a House Republican Press Pass to observe legislative proceedings from the Republican side of the wings when the House is in session and participate in legislative Republicans’ weekly news conferences.
“To all journalists who are denied access to the House floor, Republicans welcome your coverage and scrutiny, and we are offering you access to our chamber wings,” House Republican Deputy Leader Chris Corry, R-Yakima, said. “Left, right or independent — it doesn’t matter. We have nothing to hide. The public deserves to see how decisions are being made, especially as major legislation moves quickly through the chamber.”
While House Republicans do not control official press credentialing for the entire House of Representatives, they are exercising their authority to host guests in the chamber wings consistent with House rules. All guests in the chamber will be required to abide by House rules, maintain decorum, and comply with the Legislative Code of Conduct.
Journalists seeking guest access may contact House Republican Communications Director John Handy at john.handy@leg.wa.gov or 360-786-5758.
The 2026 legislative session is scheduled to end on March 12.
