Seattle City Councilmember Rob Saka, a Democrat who initially praised the leadership of newly elected Mayor Katie Wilson, now says he is "gravely concerned" about the city's ongoing business exodus. The shift comes less than five months into Wilson's term as the self-described socialist mayor.
Saka made the remarks in an interview with the New York Times, stating, "I am gravely concerned. This is real." His comments mark a notable change from his earlier statement after Wilson's victory over incumbent Bruce Harrell, when he said the voters had called for "change and a renewed focus on affordability, community, and fighting back against a resurgent Trump agenda."
Wilson drew attention earlier this year for her response to questions about wealthy residents leaving the state. During a public appearance she said, "I think the claims that millionaires are going to leave our state are super overblown," and added, "the ones that leave? Like, bye." The remarks were met with laughter from supporters but quickly drew criticism from business advocates and Republicans.
Starbucks, one of Seattle's most prominent employers, recently announced plans to move 2,000 corporate positions in IT and supply chain management to a new regional headquarters in Nashville. The company also cut an additional 61 technology jobs at its Seattle headquarters last week, according to KOMO News. These moves have heightened worries about the city's ability to retain major corporations.
State lawmakers passed a new 9.9 percent income tax on households earning more than $1 million annually. Democratic Gov. Bob Ferguson signed the measure on March 30. Supporters described it as a way to fund public services, while critics called it the state's first income tax and warned it would accelerate the departure of high earners and businesses.
The Columbia Tower Club, a longtime gathering spot for executives and civic leaders atop Seattle's tallest building, closed last month after more than 40 years. Organizers cited declining downtown foot traffic and high office vacancy rates as key factors. Observers have linked the closure to broader economic pressures facing the city center.
Washington State Republican Party leaders have been vocal in their criticism. In a post on X, the party wrote, "Marxist @MayorofSeattle Katie Wilson is more concerned about toilet ribbon-cutting photo opps than massive capital flight in downtown #Seattle all the while @SeattleCouncil stands idle as a once iconic city crumbles." The comment referred to a recent Wilson event highlighting new public restrooms in the downtown area.
Conservative commentator Brandi Kruse posted, "Seattle's Socialist Mayor responds to exodus of wealth from Washington State by saying 'BYE'… then laughing. We're doomed." The Washington State Republican Party also stated that the clip of Wilson's remarks "will live in infamy" and suggested she lacks "grace and gratitude."
Wilson's administration has emphasized initiatives such as expanding universal preschool, addressing food deserts, and improving neighborhood safety. Supporters argue these efforts will ultimately strengthen the city for working families, even as some businesses relocate.
Saka previously expressed optimism about partnering with Wilson to create "a thriving, inclusive Seattle that uplifts working families." His recent expression of concern reflects growing unease among some local Democrats about the pace of corporate departures.
City officials have not released updated figures on the total number of jobs lost or businesses that have left since Wilson took office. Reports of individual company moves continue to surface, however, adding to the public debate over Seattle's economic direction.
Business groups and state Republicans have urged city leaders to reconsider tax policies and regulatory approaches. They point to expansions in states like Tennessee as evidence that companies are seeking more favorable environments.
Wilson's office has not issued a direct response to Saka's latest comments. Earlier statements from her campaign focused on affordability and equity as central priorities for her administration.
The situation in Seattle mirrors trends reported in other high-tax states, where officials have noted similar outflows of companies and high-income residents to lower-tax jurisdictions. Local leaders continue to monitor the impact on the city's tax base and downtown vitality.