Ferguson cites CNBC jump to #11; critics flag 47th cost rank and new taxes
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Why this grade: Core ranking numbers and subcategory scores verified by CNBC data; tax details accurate; Starbucks expansion and Schultz op-ed confirmed but framing slightly exaggerates relocation and omits some positive metrics.
Why this lean: Strong emphasis on tax increases and business flight risks, quotes business leaders like Schultz, downplays legacy strengths and overall #11 ranking improvement.
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Summary
The segment criticizes Gov. Bob Ferguson for highlighting Washington's rise from #14 to #11 in CNBC's 2026 Top States for Business rankings. It dissects the underlying category scores, noting strong performance in workforce (6th), tech/innovation (4th) and access to capital (11th) but poor marks in cost of doing business (47th, D-) and business friendliness (40th, D). Ferguson is accused of ignoring new taxes including a 9.9% levy on income over $1 million effective 2028 and capital gains hikes. Starbucks' Nashville support office announcement and a Howard Schultz WSJ op-ed are cited as evidence of business concerns.
Editorial Assessment
The broadcast accurately reports verifiable data from primary CNBC sources and recent policy changes, lending credibility to its factual foundation. However, it selectively emphasizes lagging categories and future policy risks while downplaying the state's overall improvement and enduring strengths in innovation and workforce. The Starbucks coverage frames an expansion of operations as a relocation of headquarters. Viewers receive a coherent critique of tax policy impacts but miss fuller context on economic metrics like GDP growth or the multi-year ranking trajectory. Partisan tone is consistent with the show's style but grounded in documented figures.
Key Moments
Washington rose from #14 in 2025 to #11 in 2026 per CNBC
Confirmed directly in CNBC 2026 full rankings and state profile.
Cost of doing business ranks 47th (D-); business friendliness 40th (D)
Exact subcategory ranks and grades listed in CNBC Washington 2026 profile.
New 9.9% tax on income over $1 million and capital gains increases passed
Bills signed by Ferguson in 2026; effective 2028 for income tax.
Starbucks moving HQ to Tennessee
Company announced Nashville support office with 2,000 jobs while retaining large Seattle HQ presence.
Notable Concerns
- Starbucks Nashville plans described as full HQ move when company stated it is adding a complement to Seattle HQ
Sources Consulted
- Washington is No. 11 on Top States for Business 2026
- Top States for Business in America 2026: Full rankings
- Washington is 14th on Top States for Business 2025
- Washington Enacts Millionaires' Tax, Changes to Estate Taxation
- Will Washington State Choose Stagnation Over Growth?
- Message from Sara: Expanding our presence in the Southeast
- Seattle-area VC deals slow amid top-heavy market
- Despite business angst, Washington climbs in CNBC's state rankings