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Just when Seattle-area commuters thought traffic couldn’t get worse, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is adding a new wrinkle to the city’s notorious congestion. The Democratic vice presidential candidate is swinging through the Emerald City for a fundraiser, potentially turning rush hour into a parking lot.

Washington, as as its overcast skies, isn’t on Walz’s map for swaying votes. Instead, Seattle serves as a political ATM — a favored stop for officials topping off campaign coffers.

Over the years, the city has hosted political heavyweights from both parties. I’ve covered presidents and hopefuls alike — George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, Joe Biden and even Donald Trump — making the pilgrimage. They arrive, hold closed-door meetings with deep-pocketed donors and depart with heavier wallets. Public appearances? It’s about as rare as a sunny day in November.

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Seattleites have grown accustomed to this routine; it’s practically tradition. So when Gov. Walz scheduled his visit, few eyebrows were raised. But he might be about to commit the ultimate local faux pas: Messing with traffic.

As Walz heads to an exclusive fundraiser in Hunts Point, security measures will shut down ramps and roads during peak commute times. For a city where traffic congestion is legendary — and not in a good way — the additional gridlock might be a bridge too far.

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Closing major arterials during rush hour won’t win hearts in a region united by a disdain for traffic jams. Well, that and a steadfast refusal to carry umbrellas despite the drizzle.

As for commuters caught in gridlock, perhaps they’ll find solace knowing they played a small part in the democratic process, even if involuntarily. After all, nothing says “participatory democracy” like sitting bumper-to-bumper while a motorcade whizzes by.

Seattle remains a favored stop for politicians seeking cash, and that’s unlikely to change. But a little consideration for the city’s daily rhythms could preserve goodwill.

After all, in politics, as in commuting, timing is everything.

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So here’s some unsolicited advice for political hopefuls: If you’re planning a visit, we welcome you. But please, plan around the commute. Maybe consider hosting at the conference room of the .

Or at least send an apology muffin basket to everyone stuck on the freeway today. A little carb-loaded goodwill goes a long way.

Charlie Harger is the news director for MyNorthwest and ³ÉÈËXÕ¾ Newsradio. Follow Charlie on X  and email him here