Harger: Walz visit a reminder WA is a mere ‘ATM’ for politicians visiting during gridlock

Just when Seattle-area commuters thought traffic couldn’t get worse, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is adding a new wrinkle to the city’s notorious congestion. The Democratic vice presidential candidate is swinging through the Emerald City for a fundraiser, potentially turning rush hour into a parking lot.

Washington, as predictably Democratic as its overcast skies, isn’t on Walz’s map for swaying votes. Instead, Seattle serves as a political ATM — a favored stop for officials topping off campaign coffers.

Over the years, the city has hosted political heavyweights from both parties. I’ve covered presidents and hopefuls alike — George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, Joe Biden and even Donald Trump — making the pilgrimage. They arrive, hold closed-door meetings with deep-pocketed donors and depart with heavier wallets. Public appearances? It’s about as rare as a sunny day in November.

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Seattleites have grown accustomed to this routine; it’s practically tradition. So when Gov. Walz scheduled his visit, few eyebrows were raised. But he might be about to commit the ultimate local faux pas: Messing with traffic.

As Walz heads to an exclusive fundraiser in Hunts Point, security measures will shut down ramps and roads during peak commute times. For a city where traffic congestion is legendary — and not in a good way — the additional gridlock might be a bridge too far.

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Closing major arterials during rush hour won’t win hearts in a region united by a disdain for traffic jams. Well, that and a steadfast refusal to carry umbrellas despite the drizzle.

As for commuters caught in gridlock, perhaps they’ll find solace knowing they played a small part in the democratic process, even if involuntarily. After all, nothing says “participatory democracy” like sitting bumper-to-bumper while a motorcade whizzes by.

Seattle remains a favored stop for politicians seeking cash, and that’s unlikely to change. But a little consideration for the city’s daily rhythms could preserve goodwill.

After all, in politics, as in commuting, timing is everything.

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So here’s some unsolicited advice for political hopefuls: If you’re planning a visit, we welcome you. But please, plan around the commute. Maybe consider hosting at the conference room of the airport Holiday Inn.

Or at least send an apology muffin basket to everyone stuck on the freeway today. A little carb-loaded goodwill goes a long way.

Charlie Harger is the news director for MyNorthwest and KIRO Newsradio. Follow Charlie on X here and email him here

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