Report: Bob Ferguson’s Office accused of delaying Public Health alerts, controlling critical information to Washingtonians

A new report from Axios alleged Washington Governor Bob Ferguson’s office has been tightly controlling what information reaches the public and the media, raising concerns about transparency and access to time-sensitive updates across the state.

Documents obtained by Axios from the governor’s office and five state agencies show a centralized communications process requiring departments to route media inquiries and news releases through the governor’s office before publication. Agencies involved include the Washington State Department of Health (DOH), Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), and the Washington State Patrol (WSP).

The report said the policy has led to delays in releasing critical information, including updates on bridge repairs, major accident investigations, vaccine guidance and urgent public health alerts, and potentially keeping residents from receiving important information when it matters most.

Information on measles outbreak delayed

In one example cited by Axios, a notice about a confirmed measles case at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) was delayed in October while the governor’s office reviewed and edited the messaging. Records indicate the delay was tied to changes requested by the governor’s office.

Internal emails reviewed by Axios showed frustration among agency staff, who described the process as “grueling,” “painful,” and a “continual barrier” to their work. In one email, a communications official at the transportation department said the review system was consuming significant time and making it difficult to meet deadlines.

The report also indicated that Ferguson has been directly involved in reviewing and editing some agency communications, including news releases and interview talking points, contributing to additional delays. In one instance, records show the governor reviewed materials related to interstate construction updates days after drafts were submitted, requesting further revisions.

KIRO Newsradio has also experienced the delays described in the article. However, questions made to the governor’s office more than a month ago went unanswered.

In response to the report, the governor’s communications director, Brionna Aho, said the policy is intended to improve coordination and collaboration across agencies, adding that adjustments to the system take time. The office also told Axios that Ferguson has personally reviewed only a small portion of agency materials.

The Axios report has sparked broader questions about whether the policy is limiting transparency and delaying critical information from reaching Washington residents in a timely manner.

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