Inside the Campaign to Win Universal Healthcare in Washington State

Over 600,000 Washingtonians remain uninsured; countless others are underinsured, burdened by rising medical debt. Families are too often forced to choose between paying bills and seeking essential care.

My organization, Whole Washington, has worked to address these disparities by advocating for a publicly funded, single-payer healthcare system, guaranteeing access to comprehensive care for all residents.

And this year, we have our best chance yet.

The two bills to establish a single-payer system in the state — SB 5233 and HB 1445 — have a record 11 co-sponsors in the Senate and 17 in the House this legislative session. 

Our grassroots campaign has also been able to build broad public support, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic exposed deep inequities in our healthcare system.

Whole Washington has fought for universal healthcare for years. While previous campaigns fell short, they provided critical insights for this year’s effort. Grassroots mobilization has proven essential, with volunteers gathering signatures, hosting events, and lobbying legislators.

“We learned that no one is going to hand this to us. It’s up to the people of Washington to demand change,” said Kathyrn Lewandowsky, a registered nurse and vice-chair of Whole Washington.

We’ve also learned about the importance of addressing false information. Opponents often claim that single-payer systems are too expensive, but data from countries with universal healthcare demonstrates that better outcomes can be achieved at a lower cost. This year’s campaign includes an expanded effort to counter these misconceptions.

Our reach has expanded significantly, with new leadership in counties across the state, including Clark, Cowlitz, Pacific, Jefferson, Pierce, King, Whatcom, Yakima, Spokane, and Benton. These local groups are mobilizing their communities, ensuring every corner of Washington has a voice in this movement.

Despite growing momentum, significant hurdles remain. Healthcare industry lobbyists are working overtime to block the bills.

The campaign also faces funding challenges. While grassroots donations have been  substantial, statewide advocacy efforts require sustained financial support. Whole Washington has called on residents to donate, volunteer, and help amplify the campaign.

Public engagement will be key in the coming weeks. Advocates urge Washingtonians to contact their legislators, attend hearings, and share personal healthcare stories to build pressure for action.

For SB 5233 and HB 1445 to succeed, they must first pass committee hearings and win approval in both legislative chambers. Even if passed, implementing single-payer healthcare will require federal waivers and extensive planning.

Whole Washington views this fight as part of a larger national movement. Establishing a single-payer system in Washington could serve as a model for other states and build momentum for federal action.

“We’re not just fighting for Washington — we’re fighting for a model that the whole country can follow,” Andre Stackhouse, the executive director of Whole Washington, told me.

This year could mark a turning point, but only if Washingtonians demand it. The question is not whether universal healthcare is possible but whether we have the will to make it a reality.