Seattle City Council and King County Council convened a special joint meeting on June 20, 2025, to address pressing economic concerns stemming from federal policy changes and their potential impact on the local community. The meeting, led by Council Member Alexis Mercedes Rink, focused on the implications of tariffs and budget cuts proposed by the Trump administration, which threaten critical services such as Medicaid and housing assistance.

The agenda included three key briefings: a panel discussion featuring local businesses, insights on tourism and trade, and a briefing from the King County Office of Economic and Financial Analysis alongside Seattle's Office of Economic and Revenue Forecasts. These discussions aimed to assess the current economic landscape and strategize on how to bolster the regional economy amidst ongoing federal uncertainties.

Council Member Rink emphasized the unusual and challenging times faced by the community, highlighting recent volatility in local markets and the increasing pressure from federal immigration enforcement. She expressed a commitment to collaborating with local governments to shield residents from the adverse effects of these changes.

Public comment was also a part of the meeting, with one speaker raising concerns about the impact of tariffs on local agriculture and small businesses. The speaker criticized the current economic climate, linking it to broader issues of public safety and housing crises exacerbated by federal policies.

As the meeting progressed, the council members adopted the agenda and prepared to delve deeper into the economic briefings. The discussions are expected to inform future actions aimed at protecting the community's economic vitality and addressing the challenges posed by federal administration policies. The council's proactive approach underscores the importance of local governance in navigating complex economic landscapes and ensuring the well-being of Seattle's residents.