The Roundtable works to effect positive change on public policy issues that are most important to supporting state economic vitality and fostering opportunity for all Washingtonians. That work includes sharing news and analyzing policy developments affecting our state.

Around the Table: Premera Blue Cross, Armijo Group, Microsoft, Comcast, Alaska Airlines & More

October 30th, 2025

  • Jeff Roe (Premera Blue Cross) penned an op-ed in The Spokesman-Review about the importance of Congress protecting Americans’ access to healthcare by extending the enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits.
  • Frank Armijo (Armijo Group) calls for a nationwide “reading renaissance” in a recent op-ed, noting that adults reading for pleasure has dropped sharply and teens now average just six minutes a day.
  • Microsoft announced Microsoft Elevate, a $4 billion commitment over five years to equip teachers, students and schools with AI tools that prepare people to thrive in the AI economy.
  • Comcast awarded 500 new grant packages to entrepreneurs in five U.S. regions, including Seattle, through Comcast RISE, an initiative that fuels the growth of small businesses and strengthens local communities.
  • Congratulations to Ben Minicucci and the entire Alaska Airlines team — Ben was recently named CEO of the Year by the Puget Sound Business Journal, recognizing his leadership and the company’s continued growth and innovation.
  • Congratulations to Seattle Children’s on being named one of the nation’s top 10 children’s hospitals by U.S. News & World Report and the best in the Pacific Northwest!
  • Huge congratulations and appreciation to John Stanton, Kevin Martinez, and the entire Seattle Mariners organization for the amazing ride that was the 2026 season! 

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