The first gubernatorial debate between Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson and former King County Sheriff Dave Reichert was marked by heightened tensions and frequent references to former President Donald Trump. Public safety emerged as a key issue, with Ferguson proposing a $100 million plan to hire more police officers, which Reichert criticized as insufficient given the state's rising crime rates under Ferguson's tenure. Reichert, focusing on his extensive law enforcement background, aimed to portray himself as the sole candidate committed to public safety. Abortion rights also featured prominently, with Reichert affirming his support for Washington's current laws, while Ferguson accused him of inconsistency on the issue. The debate showcased the candidates' contrasting visions for the state, with Ferguson emphasizing social freedoms and corporate independence, and Reichert focusing on crime reduction and his service record. This debate sets the stage for a closely watched election in a state that has not seen a Republican governor in four decades.