A Penny for the Governor, a Dollar for Uncle Sam: Income Taxation in Washington

In 1932, 60 percent of Washington State voters approved a state income tax. Within less than a year, the measure was struck down as unconstitutional by the state supreme court. Over half a century later, Washington remains one of only eight states without a state income tax. Yet Washington’s conflicts and solutions were by no means unique.

Through an examination of how Washingtonians reacted to federal tax policy, responded to national debates over tax issues, and opted for particular forms ...