Washington Governor Enters Settlement Talks Over Ethics Violations

Bob Ferguson accused of allowing former adviser to use state plane for personal travel

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Washington Governor Bob Ferguson is in settlement negotiations with the state's Executive Ethics Board over allegations that he violated ethics laws by allowing his former top adviser, Mike Webb, to travel with him on a state plane to the Tri-Cities last summer. The board found 'reasonable cause' to believe Ferguson's actions ran afoul of state laws prohibiting the use of public resources for private benefit.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of government officials upholding high ethical standards and properly using public resources. Allegations of improper use of state assets by senior officials can erode public trust in the political process.

The details

In June 2025, Ferguson invited Webb to travel with him on a Washington State Patrol aircraft to the Tri-Cities. The Executive Ethics Board later concluded there was 'reasonable cause' to believe this violated state laws barring the use of public resources for private benefit. Ferguson has a few weeks to decide whether to pursue a settlement or face a public hearing where he could contest the charges.

  • On Jan. 9, 2026, the Executive Ethics Board concluded there was 'reasonable cause' to believe Ferguson's actions violated ethics laws.
  • In June 2025, Ferguson invited his former top adviser Mike Webb to travel with him on a state plane to the Tri-Cities.

The players

Bob Ferguson

The governor of Washington state who is accused of allowing his former top adviser to travel with him on a state plane.

Mike Webb

Ferguson's former top adviser who was allowed to travel with the governor on a state plane, which is alleged to be a violation of ethics laws.

Executive Ethics Board

The state board that found 'reasonable cause' to believe Ferguson violated ethics laws and is now in settlement negotiations with the governor.

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What they’re saying

“We must uphold the highest ethical standards in government and ensure public resources are used appropriately.”

— Kate Reynolds, Executive Ethics Board Director

What’s next

If an agreement isn't reached through settlement negotiations, a public hearing could still be held where Ferguson could contest the charges.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for robust ethics oversight and accountability for government officials, even at the highest levels, to maintain public trust in democratic institutions.