On August 21, 2025, the LWVWA sent the following letter to the Governor.

Dear Governor Ferguson:

Thank you for your response to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi’s letter of August 13, 2025, regarding the federal administration’s assertions about Washington State being a sanctuary jurisdiction. The League of Women Voters of Washington stands firmly with you.

Committed to empowering voters and defending democracy, the nonpartisan League believes that threats issued by the U.S. Justice Department against state officials—ostensibly in reaction to the protection of immigrants via adoption of the Keep Washington Working Act—are illegal; are violations of due process as well as state law; and finally, are immoral. Moreover, they represent a preeminent threat to democracy.

The League of Women Voters of the US has declared the United States now faces a constitutional crisis: "The foundational principles that have sustained our democracy — checks and balances, the rule of law, free and fair elections — are under direct and sustained threat. In this extraordinary moment, we cannot proceed with business as usual.”

This crisis requires League leaders and members to speak out. This is not a Republican, Democratic or Independent issue. This is about our democracy and our need to defend and protect it.

I am proud to share with you the League of Women Voters of Washington’s policy position on immigration, adopted earlier this year. This position states, in brief, that the League believes that all residents of Washington state, regardless of immigration status or citizenship, should be treated with dignity and respect:

“This means that all residents, regardless of immigration status or citizenship, should have access to essential state-funded services, have the opportunity to avail themselves of legal representation in court and immigration proceedings, and have the opportunity to live and work in safety...The League encourages all elected officials and government leaders in Washington to continue to take action to ensure these fundamental rights. It also means that political leaders in Washington have an obligation to condemn xenophobia, discrimination, and anti-immigrant rhetoric.”

Again—thank you for your strong stand. Please let us know how we can support you. Sincerely,

Karen Crowley
President, 2025-2027