Inland Journal

We talk with NPR's media correspondent on the eve of his visit to Spokane. Eliza Billingham hears what Spokane police officers think about working with mental health professionals in the field. A former South Carolina congressman urges his fellow Republicans to use their taxing powers to combat climate change.

We talk with two representatives of Prosperity Eastern Washington, which is using billboards to carry the rural health message to rural residents. Spokane County Assessor Tom Konis tells us about his office determines the value of properties. Kent Craford from SeaPort Airlines talks about why his carrier prefers flying into smaller airports.

We talk with East Adams Rural Healthcare Chief Executive Todd Nida about the state of Ritzville's hospital. Two graduating Spokane medical students tell us where they'll start their careers this summer. And two Spokane medical residency programs are celebrating different kinds of news.

Public radio state government reporter Sarah Mizes-Tan summarizes Washington's 2026 legislative session. We hear about new parks and schools projects scheduled for Spokane this year. Spokane author Kathy Colkitt writes about how to be an effective advocate.

This week, the Washington House of Representatives debated — for more than 24 hours — and then approved an income tax on people who make more than a million dollars a year. We hear some of the arguments they made in this week's Inland Journal.

Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane talks about his political style. Also, actress Michelle Azar on playing Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Spokane Poet Laureate Mery Noel Smith talks about her craft.

Whitney Bryen from Investigate West tells us about new developments as the publication looks into sexual assault claims against Idaho prison guards. Washington Lands Commissioner Dave Upthegrove talks about protecting public lands from state budget cuts. Spokane author Maya Jewell Zeller writes about being "Raised by Ferns."