The capital gains tax raised $1.3 billion in its first two years for investments in child care and early learning, public schools and school construction.

“The people of Washington sent a clear message,” Young-Flynn says. “Children’s welfare takes priority over tax cuts for the ultra-rich. “All of us who care about economic justice know that it is past time to stop giving the ultra-rich a special deal in the tax code at the expense of everyone else.”

Voters in Washington state also rejected an effort that would have allowed workers to be exempt from a new payroll tax for long-term care insurance if they waive the benefits of the state-run program. If this measure had been adopted, it would likely have made the insurance program financially unsustainable. Fortunately, voters unanimously rejected the proposal 55-45 difference.

In Illinois, voters expressed support for a 3 percent extra tax on income over $1 million and for the revenue to go towards property tax relief. With 89 percent of votes counted, Illinois voters approved the ballot measure by one vote. 89-11 difference. Although the measure is not binding, organizers hope the victory will fuel efforts to put a constitutional amendment on the ballot in 2026 to authorize a new tax on the wealthy.

In addition to these fair tax victories, I was encouraged by the passage of pro-worker reforms in several “red” states last night; This is in stark contrast to the positions of Republican representatives in the US Congress. Voters in Nebraska, Missouri, and Alaska approved guaranteed paid leave, and Missouri and Alaska also approved state minimum wage increases.

A friend wrote me this message: “The tree outside my window is almost bare. Perhaps this morning is a glimpse of our national life. “We have a choice: focus on the bare branches or enjoy the colorful leaves.”

These victories of the state against the scourge of inequality are some of the colorful leaves that I appreciate today.