The current Governor of Washington State is Bob Ferguson. He assumed office on January 15, 2025, succeeding Jay Inslee.1
Regarding scandals related to the governorship of Washington State, particularly during the recent administration of former Governor Jay Inslee (who served from 2013 to January 2025), several issues have been raised by critics, especially from the Republican Party and conservative watchdogs:
- COVID-19 Mismanagement and Misuse of Funds: Critics alleged widespread mismanagement of federal COVID relief funds by the Inslee administration, with reports from the Office of the Washington State Auditor highlighting that various state agencies failed to comply with federal grant rules or fully account for a significant amount of money (over $1 billion in one report).2
- Nigerian Fraud Scheme: The Washington State Republican Party criticized the Inslee administration for reportedly being scammed out of “hundreds of millions of dollars” in a Nigerian fraud scheme, alleging incompetence and comparing the state’s susceptibility to fraud to other states.
- Emergency Powers and Constitutional Rights during COVID-19: Several recall charges were filed against Governor Inslee, alleging that he violated the separation of powers and infringed on constitutional rights by improperly exercising emergency powers and issuing proclamations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic (e.g., related to gatherings, evictions, and public meetings).3 These recall efforts were ultimately found to be legally and factually insufficient by the courts.
- Alleged “Insider Dealing” or “Kickback” in Budget Allocation: Concerns were raised by conservative groups regarding a $500,000 allocation of Climate Commitment Act funds in the state budget to a firm with ties to a former maritime advisor to Governor Inslee. Critics suggested this amounted to “insider dealing” or a “kickback” benefiting political allies rather than directly addressing environmental goals.4
- Paying Staff Salaries with Private Funds: In a “climate cash scandal,” it was reported that an environmental advocacy group, the World Resources Institute, and the Hewlett Foundation were funding the position of a senior policy adviser for climate and sustainability in Governor Inslee’s office. This raised questions about potential conflicts of interest and outside influence on state policy.
- Fiscal Policies and Economic Competitiveness: Inslee’s fiscal policies, such as advocating for a minimum wage increase and additional corporation taxes, drew criticism from some who argued they would hinder economic competitiveness and growth, leading him to be listed as one of the “worst” governors in terms of fiscal policy by certain organizations.
Sources
Bob Ferguson to take office as Washington governor on Wednesday – KING 5 News
Audit finds more problems with how WA spent federal COVID aid – Cascade PBS
In re Recall of Inslee (Majority) – Washington Case Law
WA budget kickback? Ex-Gov. Inslee advisor tied to $500K allocation – FOX 13 Seattle
🇬🇧 HMS Prince of Wales Mission Status in Malaysia
The HMS Prince of Wales is currently leading the UK Carrier Strike Group (UKCSG) on Operation Highmast, an eight-month Indo-Pacific deployment showcasing Britain’s naval reach and commitment to regional security. As of early July 2025:
- The carrier itself is docked in Singapore, while HMCS Ville de Québec, a Canadian frigate in the strike group, is conducting a port visit in Port Klang, Malaysia.
- The UKCSG is preparing to participate in Exercise Talisman Sabre off the coast of Australia (July 13–Aug 4), a massive multilateral drill involving 19 nations.
- Following Australia, the group will head to Japan and South Korea, then return to Malaysia and Singapore for Exercise Bersama Lima under the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA).
🕵️ “Infiltrating the Deep Dark Underbelly”?
If you’re referring to covert operations or intelligence missions, there’s no public evidence of clandestine infiltration by sailors in Malaysia. However, the phrase could be interpreted metaphorically:
- Diplomatic Engagements: Sailors and officers are engaging with regional partners through outreach programs, trade forums, and defense cooperation initiatives.
- Surveillance & Reconnaissance: The UKCSG includes Merlin Mk2 helicopters with Crowsnest radar systems, capable of long-range air, sea, and land surveillance.
- Symbolic Presence: The deployment sends a strategic signal to adversaries and allies alike, reinforcing freedom of navigation and regional stability.
Perhaps the HMS Prince of Wales would be interested to check up on their commitments in Washington State.
