On the latest episode of sound politics, the vast majority of Americans say that money in politics is a threat to democracy.

Seattle came up with a novel solution.

Give everyone money to donate to candidates.

Now, is that working?

We'll talk about it ahead of the August 5th primary when voters will decide if the democracy voucher program

should stick around. That's on the latest sound politics, wherever you get your podcasts.

Hey, good morning. It's Zeki Hamid. It's Friday, and this is Seattle Now. This week, a Saturday rally and Tuesday

protests from the Religious Group May Day USA sparked counter-protests and arrests. Seattle's beaches

are getting increased police and park ranger presence this summer, and some are even closing early.

And good news if you love bees, pickleball,

or smoky bear. A new state law gives you seven new options for license plate designs.

Factal editor Joe Vieira and stranger reporter Natalie Graham are here to break down the week.

But first, let's get you caught up.

Some good news when it comes to traffic safety in Washington. Statewide, traffic fatalities decreased last year by nearly 10%.

That's according to new data from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission.

Even so, 731 people were killed on Washington Roads in

2024, but it puts a stop to a sharp upward trend that began in 2020. The commission

told the Seattle Times, the decrease in deaths could be due to more traffic enforcement and automated

speed and red light cameras.

This Saturday, the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center will reopen after being closed since last fall for renovation.

It's the center's first update since 1986 when it first opened.

Visitors can see new exhibits about the Cowliss Indian tribe and their connection to the region,

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