Author

Rachel Smith

Rachel Smith

Rachel Smith serves as the president and CEO of the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, representing 2,500 businesses and 750,000 employees. She is recognized by regional leaders for building effective coalitions, synthesizing and analyzing complex information, making systems work for the people they are intended to serve, and working collaboratively to secure significant policy achievements that enrich and foster the growth of the regional business community. Rachel brings 20 years of government affairs, policy, operations, and advocacy experience, including 13 years serving in local and regional government. Prior to her Chamber role, she served as deputy county executive and chief of staff to King County Executive Dow Constantine. Earlier in her career, Rachel served as government and community relations officer for Sound Transit, and in the administration of former Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels.

Commentary

Budget reset: Stop the cycle of overspending — show voters the results

By: , and - February 3, 2025

Shortly after being elected, Gov. Bob Ferguson convened a diverse transition team to advise him on priorities like health care, education, infrastructure investment, and more. Among the many subcommittees formed, the Budget and Government Efficiency group sought to tackle some of the state’s most pressing fiscal challenges, including how to approach an estimated $12 billion […]