Amy Sundberg

Staff Biography

Reporter

Amy Sundberg is the publisher of Notes from the Emerald City, a weekly newsletter on Seattle politics and policy with a particular focus on public safety, police accountability, and the criminal legal system. She also writes science fiction, fantasy, and horror novels. She is particularly fond of Seattle’s parks, where she can often be found walking her little dog.

Recent Articles

A stream of people in formal clothes walk into a modern concrete and plate class courthouse building

ICE’s Tacoma Detention Center Targeted in New Lawsuit Alleging Abuses

Amy Sundberg - February 18, 2026

A new lawsuit against the Northwest ICE detention center in Tacoma underscores the abusive conditions detainees face, which has also been alleged in numerous investigative reports. Meanwhile, some local cities are seeking to block ICE’s plans to expand detention facilities in the region.

The domed Olympia Capitol Building stands in the distance with a bus stop with a passenger waiting in the foreground. A dogwalker also mosey on the lawn.

Washington Legislature Toys with Age Verification for Big Tech

Amy Sundberg - February 14, 2026

Lawmakers are aiming to add guardrails to the most addictive social media sites when it comes to usage by kids. But privacy and civil rights advocates are warning of significant unintended consequences.

The metal awning includes the building name in red letters. The building has a white facade.

Supportive Housing Building Opens Near Seattle’s Woodland Park

Amy Sundberg - February 10, 2026

DESC opened 95 supportive housing units last week in Upper Fremont. Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson attended the ribbon-cutting celebration, noting the positive step toward addressing the homelessness crisis, but Trump cuts could slow the pace of similar project openings.

Kang stands by a colorful pedestrian bridge over Aurora Avenue.

Educator Julie Kang Enters Fray in D5 Seattle Council Race

Amy Sundberg - February 9, 2026

Julie Kang is running for the open seat in Seattle City Council’s District 5 this year, and is the first candidate in the race to qualify for democracy vouchers. An educator and bank founder, Kang espoused a mix of centrist and progressive views in her interview with The Urbanist.

Ferguson stands at the lectern with Brown over his shoulder. Both wear suits and ties.

Washington State Reacts to Feared ICE Invasion, Constitutional Crisis

Amy Sundberg - January 30, 2026

Elected officials in Washington state are being forced to prepare for the possibility of a similar ICE invasion as Minneapolis has endured. Immigrant and civil rights advocates are worried steps to prepare have been insufficient. Officials say they are prepping further actions.