Washington House Republicans Offer Floor Access to Denied Journalists

GOP lawmakers create their own press pass to allow journalists barred from official credentials to observe proceedings.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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The Washington state House Republican caucus announced they will issue a "House Republican Press Pass" to any journalist denied official floor access by the chief clerk, allowing them to observe legislative proceedings from the Republican side of the chamber wings and participate in GOP news conferences.

Why it matters

This move by House Republicans aims to increase transparency and public access to the legislative process, at a time when some feel democracy is under threat. It highlights partisan tensions over press credentialing and access to government proceedings.

The details

Under the new House Republican policy, any journalist denied official floor credentials by the House Administration will be granted a GOP-issued press pass to observe from the chamber wings and participate in Republican news conferences. House Republican leaders say this is about ensuring the public's right to know what's happening, regardless of a journalist's political affiliation.

  • The 2026 legislative session is scheduled to end on March 12.

The players

Drew Stokesbary

House Republican Leader, R-Auburn.

Chris Corry

House Republican Deputy Leader, R-Yakima.

Brandi Kruse

Journalist who was denied official floor press credentials.

Ari Hoffman

Journalist who was denied official floor press credentials.

Jonathan Choe

Journalist who was denied official floor press credentials.

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What they’re saying

“Republicans believe the public has a right to know what is happening in the people's House. Transparency and accountability aren't partisan values - they are foundational to representative government. At a time when people believe democracy is on the line, we believe the answer is more sunlight, not less.”

— Drew Stokesbary, House Republican Leader (The Tribune Content Agency)

“To all journalists who are denied access to the House floor, Republicans welcome your coverage and scrutiny, and we are offering you access to our chamber wings. Left, right or independent - it doesn't matter. We have nothing to hide. The public deserves to see how decisions are being made, especially as major legislation moves quickly through the chamber.”

— Chris Corry, House Republican Deputy Leader (The Tribune Content Agency)

What’s next

The 2026 legislative session is scheduled to end on March 12, so the new House Republican press pass policy will be in effect until then.

The takeaway

This partisan move by House Republicans underscores the ongoing debate over press access and transparency in government. While the GOP says it's about ensuring the public's right to know, critics may view it as a political tactic to influence media coverage. The situation highlights the broader challenges facing journalism and democracy.