Why Hill Day Matters — A Conversation with James Fisher
Washington REALTORS’ incoming VP of government affairs shares his perspective on Hill Day and why member voices matter.
Each year, when Hill Day rolls around, REALTORS® from across Washington head to the Capitol to meet with lawmakers and discuss what's happening in their individual communities. It's an engaging and energizing day that gives members a direct voice in the policies that shape housing, homeownership, and the real estate profession.
James Fisher, REALTOR® at J. Fisher & Associates Inc., Windermere Professional Partners, in Tacoma, has attended every Hill Day since 2017. As WAR’s incoming VP of government affairs, Fisher has seen firsthand how member voices and participation influence important legislative decisions.
In this Q&A, he shares what Hill Day means to him and the impact that WAR members can have by meeting and interacting with lawmakers in person.
Q: What stood out to you as a newly licensed REALTOR® at your first Hill Day in 2017?
A: I was struck by the level of member involvement. From the first meeting in a senator’s office to watching the personal relationships agents had with the people who craft our laws, it was eye-opening. The day moved fast and felt chaotic at times because votes were happening on the floor, but it was also very organized. Watching that many members show up with a shared purpose left a strong impression.
Q: When you met with lawmakers for the first time, what surprised you most about those conversations?
A: The amount of attention we received from lawmakers stood out immediately. They were focused and direct, whether they disagreed with our position or stood firmly with us. Several even stretched their tight schedules to give us more time, which said a lot. It was also great to have time to chat with elected officials at the post-Hill Day reception at the Washington REALTORS® building.
Q: What advice would you give to someone heading to Hill Day, whether it’s their first time or their fifteenth?
A: You don’t have to know every detail of a bill. Leave that to the lobbyists. Your task is to share real stories that show how these issues affect people. A leaseback agreement that keeps a client from an unnecessary landlord-tenant situation or an ADU that helps a family care for aging parents can go a long way. Lawmakers want to hear what you and your clients are experiencing, and they know REALTORS® have deep ties in the community.
Q: As you look ahead to Hill Day 2026, what are you most interested in watching or working toward?
A: I’m looking forward to moving new priorities ahead and revisiting issues we haven’t been able to pass. You can see which policies help the housing industry and which ones hold it back. For example, we need real solutions that create more housing in Washington. With a deficit budget coming, tax revenue will also be under close review, and it’ll be important to see how our lobby team and members work together to find creative answers. The session is always chaotic, but once it’s over, you understand why we show up.
James Fisher, 2026 WR VP of Government Affairs
Join us for Hill Day 2026, January 28-29, 2026 at Little Creek Casino Resort
You're The Key
RE Magazine Winter 2026 Issue
Quick Links to Articles
- Presidents' Message
- Market Statistics — Changes in Insurance Premiums Affecting Housing
- WASHINGTON REALTOR® Profile: Steve Chung
- Why Hill Day Matters — A Conversation with James Fisher
- 2026 Washington State Legislative Session
- REALTORS® + Housing Program Expanding in 2026
- RPAC Did That For Homebuyers & Sellers!
- The Last Print Edition of RE Magazine
- Enhancing the Value of Your Membership