Shows
Seattle NiceThe Writing on the Wall: Seattle Grapples with Graffiti and PoliticsOn this episode we debated the City Council’s plans to get tough on graffiti by introducing civil penalties up to $1,500 per violation. The change would make it easier to fine taggers. Erica questioned the council’s priorities and aesthetics, and pointed out that graffiti is already a crime or felony (if it costs more than $750 to repair). Sandeep mostly spoke in favor of the new measure, citing studies that find tolerance for graffiti can lead to more crime. But he also questioned the value of going after taggers as opposed to more serious criminals. The discussion also...2025-07-1439 minSeattle NiceCouncil President Sara Nelson Gets Touchy-Feely on TreatmentPROGRAM NOTE: We hope all you Seattle Nice fans will join us for a live taping of the podcast at 7 pm on July 15 at the next meeting of the 43rd District Democrats, held at the Erickson Theater on Capitol Hill, 1524 Harvard Avenue. We’ll be previewing the upcoming primary, and there’ll be a chance for audience questions. Council President Sara Nelson, flanked by homeless services and treatment providers and neighborhood representatives, held a press conference last week to announce that she is introducing a “Pathways to Recovery” resolution that would commit the city to use 25 percent of a futu...2025-07-0741 minSeattle NiceThe Taxman (and Woman) Cometh!This week, we're talking taxes—specifically, the new business and occupation (B&O) tax proposal that City Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck and Mayor Bruce Harrell dropped, seemingly out of the blue, last week. The tax includes a big exemption that the business community has been seeking for a long time; however, above that threshold—$2 million in gross receipts—the tax will go up substantially. Because B&O taxes are based on gross receipts, they hit high-grossing, low-margin businesses like restaurants and grocery stores hardest, which is one reason they aren't generally considered progressive. In fact, neither of the gro...2025-06-3043 minSeattle NiceIs It Time to Admit the King County Regional Homelessness Authority Is a Bust?The King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA) launched in 2020 with great fanfare. But now, with up to to a fifth of its staff facing layoffs due to budget shortfalls, it may be facing a slow death by a thousand cuts. In this week’s episode, with David still gallivanting in parts unknown, Erica and Sandeep take a hard look at the current state of KCRHA, and ask a pointed question: What purpose, exactly, does this diminished and largely neutered agency serve? As Erica reported on PubliCola this week, KCRHA's budget proposal could lead to a 21 perc...2025-06-2332 minSeattle NiceAssessing the Assessor, Urbanism v. Incivility, and Seattle Hates NightlifeWith David away for a second consecutive week, Erica and Sandeep seek out the inimitable Josh Feit, news editor of the Stranger back in the olden (golden) days, to buffer their conversation with convoluted references to 50-year-old Joni Mitchell records. We start with the increasingly off-putting saga of King County Assessor John Arthur Wilson, who remains defiant in the face of a unanimous vote by the King County Council (minus the absent Reagan Dunn) urging him to resign over allegations he stalked his ex-partner during their breakup from hell. We ask: Why did the resignation calls take s...2025-06-1646 minSeattle NiceSpecial Emergency Seattle Nice: The Seattle City Council Is Un-Cathy Moored!After less than 18 months in office, Councilmember Cathy Moore, representing District 5 (North Seattle), announced she will be resigning her position effective July 7. Swinging into immediate action, Erica and Sandeep (David is away, gamboling and gallivanting in distant parts) weigh in on this emergency episode of the podcast with their red hot takes on this surprise bombshell announcement. While Moore ascribes her decision to step down to personal and medical reasons, speculation is rampant that Moore's dissatisfaction with the job and unhappiness with the harsh criticism the Council sometimes faces also played a central role in her decision. R...2025-06-0333 minSeattle NiceTent City Gets a Reprieve, Council Rolls Back Ethics Rules, and Kshama's Back, Baby!A Seattle City Council committee advanced legislation last week that will eliminate a requirement that council members abstain from voting on legislation that presents a financial conflict of interest. Under the new, lower standard, the council will merely have to disclose any financial conflicts before voting—allowing council members, for the first time since the 1980s, to vote in their own financial interest.Sandeep thinks disclosing a conflict of interest before voting should be enough; Erica's with the haters who want more constraints on the council's ability to vote in their own self-interest.The legislation is...2025-05-2638 min
Pacific Time: The "What if...?" of West Coast Independence10 What if Blue Cities Got it Together? With Sandeep Kaushik Blue cities are struggling—and it’s not MAGA’s fault. What if Seattle, San Francisco, and LA became models of good governance? Blue cities helped shape modern America. But they’ve been having a hard time—with homelessness, affordability, public safety, and internal political warfare. In this episode, political consultant and Blue City Blues co-host Sandeep Kaushik joins Greg to unpack why. Together, they ask: What if the West Coast’s most liberal cities actually figured out how to govern effectively?We explore why progressive vs. liberal fights have taken over city halls, why governance is...2025-04-3058 minSeattle NiceD2 Council Race Unpacked, Crosswalks Hacked, and will the Virginia Inn get Axed?Four city council candidates are vying to represent one of Seattle’s most progressive districts, District 2 in SE Seattle, and Erica’s been talking to them. We debate and discuss the issues and the candidates. But the real drama? The potential closure of the Virginia Inn, which has been operating near Pike Place market for 120 years. David pokes fun at Sandeep and Erica's sentimental reminiscences. Nostalgia is a helluva drug, but if you wax nostalgic about the potential closure of a restaurant you love, does your urbanist card get revoked? And just when you thought Seattl...2025-04-2232 minSeattle NiceSound Transit Picks Dow? And Challengers Take on Harrell and DavisonSandeep says Dow Constantine will be the next CEO of Sound Transit. Is Dow the best pick? Was the process a flawed example of cronyism? And why is the transit agency's CEO pay so high? We also discuss progressive activist Katie Wilson entering the Seattle mayor's race against Bruce Harrell. Does she have a shot against Harrell's record and "One Seattle" leadership style? Don't miss our in-depth interview with Katie Wilson where she self-criticized the left on the politics of homelessness in recent years. Plus, former assistant US Attorney Erika Evans is running against Republican Ci...2025-03-1441 minSeattle NiceSODA, SOAP, and SODOSODA Seattle's new drug "stay out zones" are barely being unforced. Erica said this was the predictable result of bad, "performative" policy by council. Sandeep defended the policy but said more enforcement is needed, echoing this comment by City Council President Sara Nelson. She called on Mayor Harrell and other leaders to do more. Will "One Seattle" be put to the test this election year? SoDo Sandeep and Erica were both on Sara Nelson's side about a controversial proposal to add housing in SODO. David felt obligated to challenge their symbolic capitalist ideology a...2025-02-0746 minSeattle NiceAnti-"strip club" petitioners and Seattle's debate about crowd controlSeattle's City Council is considering legislation to remove restrictions on the use of “less lethal” weapons for crowd control. Should SPD be allowed to use "blast balls" on protestors? Erica's been covering it. We take a closer look. In Part Deux we discuss the brewing controversy over a Ballard bar applying for an "adult cabaret" license. A nearby property owner is circulating a petition in protest, calling it a "strip club." Is moralism making a comeback in Seattle? Hear our hot takes and look for Erica's story on Publicola later this week. Plus, Sandeep...2024-12-1338 minSeattle NiceThe good, the bad, and the ugly takes on Tammy Morales quitting Seattle's City CouncilTammy Morales has announced she's quitting the city council in January. She accused some colleagues of treating her very poorly and also told Erica she sees no point in continuing because she can't make any progress whatsoever passing progressive legislation with the current, more centrist council. Is the current council toxic? Is Morales right to quit? Is she abandoning her progressive allies? We take a closer look at these questions, and speculate on the fallout from the move in 2025. As our regular listeners might expect, Erica sides with Morales, Sandeep is less sympathetic, and David qu...2024-12-0531 minSeattle NiceIs Rinck's win scaring Seattle city council centrists?It was a dreary election night for the left, but Seattle progressives celebrated city council candidate Alexis Mercedes Rinck's decisive victory over incumbent Tanya Woo. By Thursday afternoon Rinck's lead had grown to around 16 percentage points. Are voters sending a message to the centrist city council majority, led by Sara Nelson? Erica and Sandeep debate and discuss. Quinn Waller is our editor. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comThanks to Uncle Ike's pot shop for sponsoring this week's episode! If you want to adv...2024-11-0829 minSeattle NiceIs the Seattle City Council race over?On this deeply troubling election eve, Seattle Nice invites you inside the podcast for a comforting conversation about local politics. First, we take a closer look at the juicy allegations swirling around SPD Chief Sue Rahr's decision to place former Chief Adrian Diaz and his chief of staff on leave. Second, a recent poll finds progressive city council candidate Alexis Mercedes Rinck has a ginormous lead over incumbent Tanya Woo. If accurate (Sandeep's skeptical), what would a big progressive win mean for the council's centrist majority heading into 2025? Third, we discuss council member's R...2024-11-0446 minSeattle NiceWTF is wrong with Seattle Public Schools?With Erica gone this week David and Sandeep take a one-week vacation from city politics to take a closer look at the root causes of the problems facing Seattle Schools, including a controversial push by some district leaders to close up to 21 schools in the face of a nearly $100 million deficit.Said special guest Robert Cruickshank, “This is one of the few issues where Sandeep is not wrong.” Robert is a Seattle parent and progressive activist, who currently leads Washington's Paramount Duty, which advocates for increased school funding.Robert and Sandeep agree that the school dist...2024-10-2549 minSeattle NiceTwo Social Housing Measures Enter. One Measure Leaves.This week Seattle's city council voted to send two competing measures to the ballot to fund affordable housing. Initiative 137, the measure social housing activists support, proposes a new, "excess compensation tax" on big business. Council member Maritza Rivera is backing a new, "alternative" measure that would rely instead on existing JumpStart taxes on big business. Erica says Rivera's alternative would raid the JumpStart tax and effectively kill the social housing concept voters approved last year. See Erica's reporting on the two measures here. Sandeep defends the alternative, saying he's skeptical social housing backers a...2024-09-2130 minSeattle NiceIs Design Review dying in Seattle?The city council is making plans to speed up the process for building in downtown Seattle by exempting certain buildings from design review. Erica and Sandeep agree about the merits of the proposal, while David as devil's advocate tries to insert some skepticism into their urbanist love fest. We also talk about the King County Council's about-face on earlier plans to close the youth jail. Our editor is Quinn Waller.For tickets to the Seattle Nice Position 8 city council debate coming up on October 1st at Town Hall click this link! And i...2024-09-0741 minSeattle NiceWhat should Seattle do about gun violence in schools?Garfield students are back in class today after one of their peers was shot and killed last week. Community members are calling for the city to do more. Erica and Sandeep debate how elected officials should respond. Quinn Waller is our editor. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hear weekly on Seattle Nice. 2024-06-1227 minSeattle NiceIs Seattle Ungovernable?David is away this week, and Sandeep and Erica are in charge! Our question for this week: Is Seattle in a state of chaos? The evidence: The Seattle school district is considering potentially devastating cuts. Hundreds showed up at a Seattle City Council meeting to protest a last-minute proposal that could doom the city's largest anti-displacement program. Mayor Bruce Harrell demoted the Seattle Police Department chief amid a swirl of lawsuits and allegations. And the King County Regional Homelessness Authority is about to appoint a leader by default, after all the applicants but one dropped out.2024-06-0137 minSeattle NiceDo you support Seattle Mayor Harrell's new overdose recovery facility plan?On Thursday, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell announced a new overdose recovery center. Erica and Sandeep both support the idea but still find room for some lively disagreement. Quinn Waller is our editor. If you want to advertise or book Seattle Nice Live! for your next neighborhood or other event, email us at realseattlenice@gmail.com. If you like this podcast please give us a 5 star review everywhere. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the show...2024-05-1223 minSeattle NiceSeattle considers changes to police hiring tests and gig delivery worker paySeattle's Police Department is having a hard time bringing in new recruits, so the city council is considering moving to an easier test for job applicants as one possible fix. Erica says that's the wrong solution and Sandeep disagrees. Plus, the podcast debates a proposal to scale back a pay increase for delivery drivers that was passed by the last, more progressive city council. Our editor is Quinn Waller. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Pa...2024-03-3030 minSeattle NiceSeattle's Sizzling Social Housing DebateErica and Sandeep disagree about the merits of a proposed social housing initiative. It proposes to raise $50,000,000 a year through new business taxes to create publicly owned, permanently affordable housing. Is it the right plan to help address Seattle's affordable housing crisis? Our editor is Quinn Waller. Support us on Patreon! Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hi...2024-02-1027 minSeattle NiceGay bar raids, voter turnoutgate and a mistrialThis week Erica and Sandeep somehow manage to agree more than they disagree as the pod dives into three stories that appeared in The Stranger. Seattle’s Queer Community Demands Swift Change After Raids of Gay Bars Council President Sara Nelson Opposes Effort to Increase Voter Turnout Mistrial for 'Stop the Sweeps' Protester Charged with Standing on RV for 12 MinutesOur editor is Quinn Waller. Support the showSupport us on Patreon!Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directl...2024-02-0325 minSeattle NiceTanya Woo's controversial Seattle city council appointmentErica throws shade on the council's appointment of CID activist Tanya Woo to an open Seattle city council seat. Sandeep counters. Hilarity ensues. Our editor is Quinn Waller. Support the showSend us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hear weekly on Seattle Nice. 2024-01-2731 minSeattle NiceRockin' New Year's Eve special predicting Seattle's futureThis week's pod sails into uncharted waters with some bold predictions about what's likely to happen in Seattle next year. Please donate to help keep the podcast going and support our editor, Quinn Waller, here. (patreon.com/seattlenice)Want to advertise your podcast or business? Contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts.If you're still on X/Twitter find us @realseattlenice. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the sho...2024-01-0137 minSeattle NiceSeattle's Nicest Year in ReviewIn this special holiday edition, we discuss the biggest stories of the year and are haunted by a ghastly question from the podcast's past, "Would Seattle politics be better off without Twitter?" Please donate to help keep the podcast going and support our editor, Quinn Waller, here. (patreon.com/seattlenice)Want to advertise your podcast or business? Contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts.If you're still on X/Twitter find us @realseattlenice.Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly t...2023-12-1130 minSeattle NiceWhat's next for Seattle with a new city council?Five new faces are joining the Seattle city council. What really changes next year? Please donate to help keep the podcast going and support our editor, Quinn Waller, here. (patreon.com/seattlenice)Want to advertise your podcast or business? Contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts.If you're still on X/Twitter find us @realseattlenice.Support the showSupport us on Patreon!Send us a text! Note that we can only res...2023-12-0834 minSeattle NiceCentrists flip Seattle city council. Now what?Seattle voters have spoken. But what did they say? And what will the next council actually do? All questions are answered on this podcast. Please donate to help keep the podcast going and support our editor, Quinn Waller, here. (patreon.com/seattlenice)Want to advertise your podcast or business? Contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts.If you're still on X/Twitter find us @realseattlenice.Send us a text! Note that we can only respond di...2023-11-1326 minSeattle NiceWill Urbanism Win Seattle's city council races?It's become a political brag for some candidates to call themselves "urbanists" in big blue cities like Seattle. So what is urbanist ideology and how's it doing in this year's city council election? Whatever happened to running against growth? Please donate to keep the pod alive here and help support our editor, Quinn Waller.Want to advertise your podcast or business? Contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts.If you're still on X Twitter find us @realseattlenice2023-11-0129 minSeattle NiceOn Drugs: Seattle council races, final stretch editionThis week all the city council races we didn't get to last time, plus some fresh back-and-forth about city drug policy. Please donate to keep the pod alive here.Our editor is Quinn Waller.Want to help the pod and raise awareness about your own podcast or business? We've got a special for the month of October only! Contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts.If you're still on X Twitter find us @realseattlenice2023-10-2136 minSeattle NiceElection fever burns hot in two Seattle city council racesDistricts 1 and 2 are the hot topics for this week's SPECIAL ELECTION EPISODE, featuring lack of sleep + lively discussion. Please donate to keep the pod alive here.Our editor is Quinn Waller.Want to help the pod and raise awareness about your own podcast or business? We've got a special for the month of October only! Contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts.If you're still on X Twitter find us @realseattleniceAlso please dona...2023-10-1026 minSeattle NiceWas the plan to end homelessness in downtown Seattle doomed to fail?"The King County Regional Homelessness Authority’s Partnership for Zero program—a heavily hyped public-private partnership aimed at ending unsheltered homelessness in downtown Seattle—is ending," Erica C Barnett wrote on PubliCola. Erica and Sandeep dig into the details and disagree about whether it was the right concept in the first place. Please donate to keep the pod alive here. Our editor is Quinn Waller.Want to help the pod and raise awareness about your own podcast or business? We've got a special for the month of October only! Contact us realseat...2023-09-3030 minSeattle NiceWill the Seattle police video scandal provoke reform?Seattle police officer Daniel Auderer was caught joking about the death of a 23-year-old student on his own bodycam video. We discuss the subsequent outrage and debate whether the scandal could lead to meaningful changes within SPD. Our editor is Quinn Waller.If you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts.If you're still on X Twitter find us @realseattlenice Also please donate! Our Patreon link is here. Send us...2023-09-1934 minSeattle NiceWill Seattle's proposed drug law make a difference?On Tuesday a Seattle city council committee is considering a new drug ordinance. Sandeep and Erica are skeptical that it will do much to address Seattle's drug crisis or improve public safety. Tune in to hear them break it down, and the phrase "smoke and mirrors" used several times. Our editor is Quinn Waller.If you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts.If you're still on Twitter, you can also fi...2023-09-1229 minSeattle NiceBlame game on Seattle's hotel shelter programErica C. Barnett has been reporting on Publicola about problems with a "short-lived hotel shelter program run by the Lived Experience Coalition —a group of advocates who have direct experience with homelessness." Who is to blame? Plus, burning hot takes on Burning Man getting stuck in the muck. Our editor is Quinn Waller.If you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts.If you're still on Twitter, you can also find us...2023-09-0925 minSeattle NiceTaxes and drugs9 new progressive taxes are on the table in Seattle. Which ones, if any, are likely to pass? Plus, “Council Declines to Fast-Track Law Empowering City Attorney To Prosecute Drug Users.”Please donate to keep this show alive! Our Patreon link is here.Our editor is Quinn Waller.If you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts.If you're still on Twitter, you can also find us there. @realseattlenice on TwitterAlso...2023-08-1727 minSeattle NiceWhat really happened, Seattle?Seattle city council primary results are in! This week's episode delivers everything you need to know about what those results mean. Plus, talk about Erica's recent vacation and Sandeep's favorite musical. Please donate to keep this show alive! Our Patreon link is here.Our editor is Quinn Waller.If you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts.If you're still on Twitter, you can also find us there. @realseattlenice on Twitter2023-08-0854 minSeattle NiceSeattle Election Eve PaloozaSandeep and Erica discuss and debate the election eve zeitgeist as the city readies for the August 1st primary. Plus, David asks for our pundit's predictions, but as the Magic 8 ball says, "Reply hazy, try again." Please donate to keep this show alive! Our Patreon link is here.This episode was edited by Quinn Waller.If you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts.If you're still on Twitter, yo...2023-08-0131 minSeattle NiceSeattle city council election flambéErica and Sandeep make their picks for the hottest Seattle city council races of 2023, and debate some of the issues that are driving the debate in this pivotal election year. Please donate to keep this show alive! Our Patreon link is here.This episode was edited by Quinn Waller.If you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts.If you're still on Twitter, you can also find us there. @realseattlenice on Twi...2023-07-1842 minSeattle NiceBaseball Sweep Denial and D4 Showdown in SeattleThis week, it's a Seattle Nice doubleheader. First, Seattle launches a big encampment removal before MLB All-Star Week, but the Mayor's office claims there's no link to the event. Plus, the latest candidate showdown in Seattle's City Council District 4 race. Please donate to keep this show alive! Our Patreon link is here.This episode was edited by Quinn Waller.Check out our sponsor, the You Know Me Now podcast. And you can also DonateSupport — You Know Me NowIf you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf y...2023-07-1132 minSeattle NiceShake up but not stirred at city hallIn this episode Erica and Sandeep debate the departure of Deputy Mayor Monisha Harrell, the new "Downtown is YOU" activation plan, and the politics of Kshama Sawant's latest rent control proposal. This episode was edited by Quinn Waller.Check out our sponsor, the You Know Me Now podcast. And you can also DonateSupport — You Know Me NowIf you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts. And please donate! Our Patreon link is here...2023-07-0128 minSeattle NiceSeattle's drug law debateIn the most-anticipated podcast episode of 2023, Erica and Sandeep debate Seattle's drug law controversy. This episode was edited by Quinn Waller.Check out the You Know Me Now podcast. This week's sponsor. And you can also DonateSupport — You Know Me NowIf you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts. And please donate! Our Patreon link is here.If you're still on Twitter, you can also find us there. @realseattlenice on Twitte...2023-06-1733 minSeattle NiceWhat's really going on with King County homelessness policy?Erica broke the big news that Marc Dones is stepping down as head of King County regional homelessness authority while she was on vacation. Now, Erica's back to tell you what she couldn't Tweet from Bulgaria She and Sandeep get into the fallout, and discuss what's next. This episode was edited by Quinn Waller.Please review us wherever you get your podcasts, nd please donate! Our Patreon link is here.If you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you're still on Twitter, you can also find us the...2023-05-2739 minSeattle NiceSeattle what should we do about drugs?Some Seattle electeds want to make public drug use illegal. The proposal came after state lawmakers failed to replace the current drug possession law, which will expire July 1. Erica and Sandeep debate the wisdom of the city proposal and talk about drug politics and policy at all levels. This episode was edited by Quinn Waller.Check out the You Know Me Now podcast. This week's sponsor. You can also DonateSupport — You Know Me NowIf you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seatt...2023-05-0532 minSeattle NiceVoters approve crisis center levy. Now what?Looks like King County votes said yes to creating five crisis care centers. What will the levy do to address the region's mental health crisis? What won't it do? Sandeep and Erica break it down. This episode was edited by Quinn Waller. Check out the You Know Me Now podcast. This week's sponsor. And you can also DonateSupport — You Know Me Now If you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comIf you want to help support Seattle Nice, please review us wherever you get your podcasts. And please donat...2023-04-3028 minSeattle NiceWill Bruce Harrell's Executive Order on Drugs make a difference?This week Mayor Bruce Harrell issued an executive order on plans to tackle Seattle's drug crisis. Will it work? He also spoke about downtown "revitalization." Surprisingly, both Sandeep and Erica have some positive things to say, albeit laced with the usual skepticism and questionable jokes. The episode's sponsor is the You Know Me Now podcastDonateSupport — You Know Me NowIf you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comYou can also find us @realseattlenice on TwitterIf you want to help support the show, please review us wherever yo...2023-04-2030 minSeattle NiceLisa Daugaard's plan for "public disorder" on Third AvenueIn this preview episode, the pod heads to the most notorious area in Downtown Seattle, Third Avenue. It's become the epicenter for "public disorder," according to our special guest Lisa Daugaard, who is leading Seattle's latest effort to try and improve things. Erica and Sandeep ask some pointed questions about what her "Third Avenue Project" is up to, and what's next.The episode's sponsor is the You Know Me Now podcastDonateSupport — You Know Me NowIf you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comYou can also fi...2023-04-1627 minSeattle NiceIs Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison doing a good job with "repeat offenders."Erica and Sandeep debate a recent report by City Attorney Ann Davison touting her success with repeat offenders, also known as high utilizers. More reading:City Attorney's office High Utilizer report Erica's at PublicolaThe Seattle Times editorial board Some background reporting from KUOW The episode's sponsor is the You Know Me Now podcastDonateSupport — You Know Me NowIf you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.comYou can also find us @realseattlenice on TwitterIf you want to help support the...2023-04-0836 minSeattle NiceSound Transit board votes to skip Chinatown and First HillSound Transit made a big decision about the future of light rail in Seattle this week, which Erica covered in Publicola. "After five hours of public testimony and a lengthy, often contentious debate, the Sound Transit board voted Thursday to adopt as its “preferred option” for the light rail extension through downtown Seattle a last-minute, back-of-the-napkin alternative that eliminates two long-planned stations serving the Chinatown-International District (CID) and First Hill neighborhoods in favor of new stations at Pioneer Square and just north of the current Stadium Station. " Sandeep and Erica discuss and debate the board's decision. Th...2023-03-2532 minSeattle NiceHow to interpret Mayor Harrell's State of the City addressErica and Sandeep analyze and debate Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell's 2023 State of the City address. This episode was brought to you by:Magic Consulting206-999-4071reachgabemagic@gmail.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/gabe-meyer/If you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.com@realseattlenice on TwitterIf you want to help support the show, please donate! Our Patreon link is here.Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the show2023-02-2631 minSeattle NiceYour questions about Seattle council races, pedestrian deaths, and moreThe Seattle Nice team answers your questions about a range of timely topics including one about politics in the city council race for District 2, which is starting to heat up. The team also answers a question about pedestrian deaths, and another about where the money is going to come from to support the social housing part of the social housing initiative,This episode was brought to you by:Magic Consulting206-999-4071reachgabemagic@gmail.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/gabe-meyer/If you want to advertise, please contact us re...2023-02-1944 minSeattle NiceHow to vote on the Seattle social housing levy I-135Looking for last-minute advice on how to vote on Seattle's social housing levy, or just hoping to be entertained by initiative talk? SN has you covered. Erica makes the case for voting yes. Sandeep, playing the role of wet blanket this week, says he "can't get there" on I-135. This episode was brought to you by:Magic Consulting206-999-4071reachgabemagic@gmail.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/gabe-meyer/If you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.com@realseattlenice on TwitterIf you want...2023-02-1124 minSeattle NiceWill the last person leaving Seattle City Council — turn out the lightsSeattle Council member Teresa Mosqueda is one of the more powerful people in city government. But this week she announced she's got other plans - a run for the King County Council. Sandeep and Erica discuss and debate the motivations behind the big news. This episode was brought to you by:Magic Consulting206-999-4071reachgabemagic@gmail.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/gabe-meyer/If you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.com@realseattlenice on TwitterIf you want to help support the show, please donate! Our...2023-02-0320 minSeattle NiceBillions and billions to end homelessness in King CountyThe pod takes a closer look at a new 5-year plan to “dramatically reduce" homelessness in King County. Erica and Sandeep discuss the merits of the plan including the estimated $12 billion price tag. This episode was brought to you by:Magic Consulting206-999-4071reachgabemagic@gmail.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/gabe-meyer/If you want to advertise, please contact us realseattlenice@gmail.com@realseattlenice on Twitter If you want to donate our Patreon link is here.Send us a text! Note that we can only...2023-01-3026 minSeattle NiceEmergency Podcast: Socialist Alternative's Kshama Sawant won't run againWe process the political earthquake that just hit Seattle: Kshama Sawant's announcement that she won't run for council in 2023. Sawant is moving on to launch a new national worker's movement. The pod debates Sawant's legacy, speculates about the motives behind this big move, and gets into how this might affect the Seattle city council and the 7 council races in 2023. This episode was brought to you by:Magic Consulting206-999-4071reachgabemagic@gmail.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/gabe-meyer/If you want to advertise, please contact usrealseattlenice@g...2023-01-2043 minSeattle NiceDoes historic preservation in Seattle go too far?Today we bring you a lively debate on the future of Seattle's past after the city council acted this week on a mid-century modern former bank building on Denny, which is today a Walgreens. In a rare moment of agreement, Erica and Sandeep both think the city needs to find a way to tear down more landmarked buildings like that one to make way for more affordable housing or other uses. Guest Chris Moore, who directs the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation, defends landmarking against the Seattle Nice onslaught. This episode was brought...2023-01-1444 minSeattle NiceWhy isn't Seattle's Alex Pedersen running for re-election, really?Now a third Seattle City Council member, Alex Pedersen, has announced he's not running for re-election. That's leading politics buffs to wonder, WHAT THE HECK IS GOING ON? Tune in for definitive answers to that question, and ratings of Alex Pedersen's record on council so far. Bonus content: Some pundits are also asking a counterfactual question this week: Would Seattle be better off if Amazon had never landed here in the first place? Hear Erica and Sandeep debate that one without bringing up the Seattle Spheres a single time. If you want to advertise, please con...2023-01-0944 minSeattle NiceSeattle Mayor Bruce Harrell's Year in ReviewErica and Sandeep reluctantly rate Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell's first year in office.If you like Seattle Nice and want it to continue, please share it with friends and rate us highly wherever you get your podcasts. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hear weekly on Seattle Nice. 2023-01-0226 minSeattle NiceWould Seattle politics be better off without Twitter?If Twitter collapses under Elon Musk's ham-handed leadership, would that be a good or bad thing for Seattle politics?If you want to advertise, please contact usrealseattlenice@gmail.com@realseattlenice on TwitterIf you like Seattle Nice and want it to continue, please share it with friends and rate us highly wherever you get your podcasts. If you want donate, our Patreon link is here.Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYo...2022-12-1750 minSeattle NiceWhy is Lisa Herbold not running for re-election to the Seattle City CouncilSeason 2 of Seattle Nice kicks off with the first big announcement of the 2023 elections: Lisa Herbold's stepping away from Seattle politics. But why now? Is she worried about winning? Has it just gotten too mean? Erica and Sandeep discuss. If you like Seattle Nice and want it to continue, please give the pod 5 stars on Apple or wherever you get your podcasts and consider clicking the link below. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps...2022-12-1226 minSeattle NiceFinal budget battles amidst Harrell-ded harmony in SeattleErica and Sandeep paid close attention to Seattle's final budget negotiations so you could just relax, recover from Thanksgiving, watch the World Cup, or whatever - knowing Seattle Nice had you covered. This week they debate 11th hour council controversies and speculate about next year's city council races. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hear weekly on Seattle Nice. 2022-12-0340 minSeattle NiceElection Forecast fails and Sandeep gloats about beating MAGA Joe KentFirst,Sandeep gloats about his big team win against MAGA superstar Joe Kent. Then, he and Erica parse the midterm election results. How did Seattle Nice election forecasts compare to your home Magic 8-Ball? Outlook not so good. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hear weekly on Seattle Nice. 2022-11-1829 minSeattle NicePins, needles and midterm election predictionsSeers Erica and Sandeep gaze into the Seattle Nice crystal orb to bring us their midterm election forecasts, with some evidence, reasoning and argumentation. Special thanks to Patreon subscriber David K. for suggesting this episode. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hear weekly on Seattle Nice. 2022-11-0637 minSeattle Nice#poopgate, plus troubling news for Dan Strauss of the Seattle City CouncilIn Act I, Sandeep and Erica tackle #poopgate. Seattle council member Kshama Sawant says someone's been throwing bags of human feces on her lawn and accuses police of dragging their feet in the investigation. In Act II, the pod asks: Does council member Dan Strauss need to worry about a proposed new redistricting map? And what was he thinking when he barred the press from a public event? In Act III, in keeping with these troubling times, there can be no tidy resolution and there is no third act. Send us a text! Note that we can onl...2022-10-2237 min
Seattle City MakersEpisode 20: Sandeep KaushikIt’s election season! As you prepare to dig into your ballot, we thought the time was right talk politics with local political and public affairs consultant Sandeep Kaushik. A former journalist, Sandeep has worked on numerous campaigns and ballot measures in the Northwest. Jon and Sandeep dig into local and national races, Seattle’s political landscape, the pivotal 2023 City Council races and more. If a lively conversation and political analysis are for you, you’ve come to the right place. Join us for Seattle City Makers with Jon Scholes and guest Sandeep Kaushik.2022-10-1754 minSeattle NiceShould Seattle spend millions on "Unified Care Team" expansion?Sandeep admits to being "a little buzzed" for this special nighttime taping of Seattle Nice. Nevertheless, he and Erica chew over Mayor Bruce Harrell's proposal to dramatically expand Seattle's Unified Care Team to "address trash and litter, clean up encampments and areas around encampments." Some of the topics not addressed on this week's podcast: The Murray / Smiley debate schedule, Erica and Sandeep's favorite restaurants, and the best Tweets about the Mariners devastating 18-inning playoff loss. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the sho...2022-10-1622 minSeattle NiceSeattle's big budget battleBruce Harrell releases a new budget and the podcast goes berserk. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hear weekly on Seattle Nice. 2022-10-0237 minSeattle NiceHarrell picks Diaz, and Seattle Nice reactsAs expected Bruce Harrel named interim Adrian Diaz his new chief of Seattle police. We debate the wisdom of the pick and prognosticate what will happen with police reform. Plus, Erica blasts a recent Seattle Times column about tipping while Sandeep shrugs. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hear weekly on Seattle Nice. 2022-09-2334 minSeattle NiceTurbulence over Seattle plan to hire more park rangersEarlier this month Mayor Bruce Harrell announced that he will expand Seattle's park ranger program. That provoked outrage in some circles, with calls on Twitter for the city council to not "criminalize park users!" This week Erica and Sandeep discuss and debate the backlash and dish about alleged consternation behind the scenes over how to respond. We dish, please donate: Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live even...2022-09-1729 minSeattle NiceSeattle teacher's strike and the city leaf blower crisisThis week the pod discusses the politics and policies at Seattle public schools, and debates one of the biggest issues facing the city, possibly ever - leaf blowers. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hear weekly on Seattle Nice. 2022-09-1033 minSeattle NiceEnd of mayoral honeymoon for "authentic" Bruce Harrell?Mayor Bruce Harrell's facing a mini-scandal this week after some controversial comments he made behind closed doors got leaked. In a meeting with Seattle police. Harrell blasted the city council and King County Regional Homelessness Authority. Harrell isn't denying the comments. He says he's just being his authentic self. Seattle Nice takes a closer look at what Harrell said and the fallout. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the...2022-09-0331 minSeattle NiceHot takes on big WA primary and Seattle City Council hijinksThis week Seattle Nice takes a closer look at BIG PRIMARY RESULTS and the Seattle city council decision to end a $4 boost to grocery worker pay. Plus, Sandeep and Erica reminisce about the days when they helped made political endorsements at the Stranger. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hear weekly on Seattle Nice. 2022-08-0636 minSeattle NiceFentanyl crisis and the personal politics of addictionErica and Sandeep bring their personal addiction stories to bear in this episode about the fentanyl overdose emergency. Earlier in the week, King County passed a bill that declared fentanyl a public health crisis. The bill was sponsored by council member Reagan Dunn, who is also running as a Republican in the August primary to represent the 8th Congressional District. Erica and Sandeep agree Dunn’s motives in pushing the emergency declaration are far more about politics than policy, but strongly disagree - based on their personal experiences - about where to draw the line betwe...2022-07-2336 minSeattle NiceWhy is Starbucks really closing stores in Seattle?"Starbucks to close 5 Seattle stores over safety concerns," reported the Seattle Times. Erica is skeptical, calling it "corporate PR," and points to the the company's union-busting efforts in Seattle and around the country. Sandeep argues the "Twitter left" is getting the story wrong by continuing to downplay the rising crime rate. This week Seattle Nice also takes a closer look at city efforts to lure more cops with hiring bonuses. If you like Seattle Nice, where respectful and heated debate is still encouraged, please help support the pod on Patreon. https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_med...2022-07-1641 minSeattle NiceCharleena Lyles verdict + Seattle City Council voting reform maneuveringInside dopester Sandeep dishes up some breaking news about a city council plan to put ranked-choice voting on the ballot this fall alongside approval voting. Plus, the jury in the Charleena Lyles inquest "says police followed policy in shooting black woman in crisis," reports Publicola. We discuss the verdict and the larger political context. If you like Seattle Nice, where respectful and heated debate is still encouraged, please help support the pod on Patreon. https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshareSend us a text! Note that we c...2022-07-0933 minSeattle NiceSeattle Nice takes on the U.S. Supreme CourtThis week Erica joins from an undisclosed location not far from the U.S. Supreme Court. Here in Washington State, elected officials have been busy reacting to the court's recent rulings, especially the Dobb's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Can Seattle save us from this Supreme Court? How about Governor Inslee? If you like Seattle Nice, where respectful and heated debate is still encouraged, please help support the pod on Patreon. https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note that we can only...2022-07-0330 minSeattle NicePolice reform takes a step forward + Is Seattle's World Cup fever overheated?Publicola broke the story earlier this week about a new SPD labor contract that tries to tackle an intractable problem - ensuring that the discipline of police who break the rules sticks when that process was fair. It doesn't always happen. Plus, we learn that Sandeep and Erica are not soccer fans. But they still manage to disagree about the value of a taxpayer-funded stadium that's just managed to help lure the men's World Cup to Seattle in 2026. If you like Seattle Nice, where respectful and heated debate is encouraged, please help support the pod on...2022-06-1840 minSeattle NiceWho should take blame for Seattle's sexual assault case backlog?On June 1, KUOW and the Seattle Times broke the story that Seattle police stopped investigating adult sexual assaults this year. Is this a misallocation of police resources or a short-staffing problem? Plus, Erica accuses KEXP's John Richards of boosting the "Seattle Is Dying narrative." Is she right? If you like Seattle Nice, where debate is encouraged, please help support the pod on Patreon. https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to email...2022-06-1128 minSeattle NiceShould Seattle raise Amazon's taxes again?Seattle is facing a looming budget deficit and city leaders are now exploring options for how to address it. A task force is being assembled to look at how to raise progressive tax revenue. That’s not so easy in this regressive tax state where a progressive income tax is not allowed. Are budget cuts also on the table? What is to be done?If you like Seattle Nice, please help support the pod on Patreon. https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note th...2022-05-2729 minSeattle NiceMore "cleanups" but is Seattle making progress on homelessness?If you like Seattle Nice please help support the pod on Patreon. Any monthly level is very welcome, and it will qualify you for upcoming members-only events and special content. https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare This week Seattle leaders celebrated how the city handled the removal of a homeless encampment at Woodland Park, which included offers of tiny home shelter. Sandeep and Erica both applaud aspects of the effort. But they do not agree on how much progress the city is making on homelessness. Send us...2022-05-2155 minSeattle NiceComplacency on the abortion issue and Washington State politicsErica and Sandeep discuss the leaked draft Supreme Court abortion ruling and Washington State politics. If you like Seattle Nice please help support the pod on Patreon. Any monthly level is very welcome, and it will qualify you for upcoming members-only events and special content. https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the u...2022-05-0727 minSeattle NiceShould Sound Transit let people ride light rail for free?This week, Erica and Sandeep debate Sound Transit's move to loosen up on fare enforcement. If you like Seattle Nice please help support the pod on Patreon. Any monthly level is very welcome, and it will qualify you for upcoming members-only events and special content. https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the...2022-04-3032 minSeattle NiceIs Ann Davison Stealing Nicole Thomas-Kennedy’s Policy Platform?This week Erica has some "Seattle Nice" things to say about Seattle's new Republican City Attorney Ann Davison. Plus, the pod debates a new Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce poll that confirms everything Sandeep believes about Seattle voters. If you like Seattle Nice please help support the pod on Patreon. Any monthly level is very welcome, and it will qualify you for upcoming members-only events and special content. https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note that we can only resp...2022-04-2330 minSeattle NiceSeattle's rich keep getting richer and there's too much dog poopErica and Sandeep tackle two of the biggest issues facing Seattle this week according to local news reports: Income inequality and a growing dog poop crisis. If you like Seattle Nice please help support it on Patreon https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hear weekly on...2022-04-0823 minSeattle NiceIs a new approach to homelessness working in Seattle and King County?Erica and Sandeep discuss the King County Regional Homelessness Authority with some agreement, plenty of disagreement and requisite Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome references. Two podcasters enter. Do two podcasters leave? If you like Seattle Nice please help support it on Patreon https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local jour...2022-04-0424 minSeattle NiceSeattle TV reporter fired for Tweeting about a Proud Boys rallySeattle TV reporter Jonathan Choe was reportedly fired this week after Tweeting about a far-right Proud Boys rally. But before this incident Choe composed other controversial Tweets about homelessness and crime. Sandeep and Erica discuss and debate Choe’s larger oeuvre, as well as the underlying issues. If you like Seattle Nice please help support it on Patreon https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour supp...2022-03-2623 minSeattle NiceIs Third Avenue Bruce Harrell's Afghanistan?This week Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell postponed his plan to crack down on disorderly conduct along Third Avenue in downtown Seattle. Erica and Sandeep do a deep dive on that decision, and disagree about the criticism Harrell's facing.Sandeep and Erica also offer competing Gen X takes on why the majority of Gen Z college grads tell pollsters they want to move to Seattle. Is it 1992 all over again? Can Gen Xers really offer any useful insight on this topic? We report, you decide. If you like Seattle Nice please help support it on Patreon https...2022-03-1926 minSeattle NiceDebating Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell's "Operation New Day" crime-fighting campaignOn Friday Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell talked up his "Operation New Day" crime-fighting campaign with law enforcement leaders including U.S. Attorney Nicholas W. Brown and the DEA's Frank Tarentino. Will the focus on downtown "hot spots" work to address a spike in serious crime? Longtime friends and political opponents Erica and Sandeep do not agree. A special appeal this week: If you like Seattle Nice please help support it on Patreon https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directl...2022-03-0533 minSeattle NiceIs downtown Seattle dying?All of sudden, nearly everyone from Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell to members of the City Council to the business and philanthropic communities are talking about encampments on the streets of downtown Seattle. What gives? Are efforts to remove encampments going to work? And are they fair to homeless people? If you like Seattle Nice please help support this pod on Patreon https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the show...2022-02-2634 minSeattle NiceBlue city crime debate and SBUX resolution rancor on Seattle's City CouncilFormer hippie Erica calls out former hippie and new Seattle City Council member Sara Nelson. Sandeep plays defense. At issue: Crime against small businesses, and a fight on the city council over symbolic resolution-making. If you like Seattle Nice please help support this pod on Patreon https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the uni...2022-02-1227 minSeattle NiceSeattle debates crime and punishment after Mayor Bruce Harrell's presserSandeep and Erica take sides in the raging debate on the left over crime after Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell holds a presser on public safety. We also hear their takes on Seattle Times columnist Danny Westneat's explosive crime column and KEXP DJ John Richard's crime tweets. If you like Seattle Nice please help support this pod on Patreon https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour sup...2022-02-0529 minSeattle NiceIs Rudy Giuliani what Republicans in the Seattle area need right now?Erica and Sandeep ponder the puzzling decision to invite former Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani to a King County GOP event (now reportedly cancelled) and debate proposed voting reforms. Even when we agree we disagree. If you like Seattle Nice please help support this pod on Patreon https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the un...2022-01-3035 minSeattle NiceWill the move to end single family zoning in Washington State destroy America?Are we dense enough? That's the question state lawmakers are taking up this month. Erica and Sandeep both say no, but still find plenty to disagree about. If you like Seattle Nice please help support this pod on Patreon https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hea...2022-01-2226 minSeattle NiceMayor Bruce Harrell extends Seattle's eviction moratorium just as New York’s expiresSeattle's eviction moratorium is extended as is Sandeep and Erica's witty repartee on the latest "short but not so sweet" edition of Seattle Nice. If you like Seattle Nice please help support this pod on Patreon https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hear weekly on Sea...2022-01-1511 minSeattle NiceCan Mayor Bruce Harrell bridge Seattle's political divides?Bruce Harrell's swearing in speech this week was all about love and unity. Or was it? This week Sandeep and Erica slice, dice and analyze the new mayor's first address to the city. Are the comparisons to New York City's new mayor Eric Adams valid? Plus, Debora Juarez was elected Seattle's first Native American city council president. How did she land the position? If you like Seattle Nice please help support this pod on Patreon https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=creatorshare Send us a text! Note that we can...2022-01-0827 minSeattle NiceSeattle Mayor Durkan's Legacy is up for DebateNew Year's Eve is Jenny Durkan's last day in office, and her legacy is now up for debate. Sandeep and Erica dive into the juiciest issues she faced during her mayoralty including an unflattering nickname, homelessness, police reform, protests, and political labels. They also speculate about what might be different under Mayor Bruce Harrell, who is being compared to other blue city mayors, including the incoming mayor of New York City, Eric Adams. If you like Seattle Nice please help support this pod on Patreon https://patreon.com/seattlenice?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=c...2022-01-0129 min