Washington recorded the nation’s fastest economic growth in the first quarter of 2026, with real gross domestic product (GDP) increasing 1.1% to nearly $730 billion. Economists attribute much of the growth to the state’s information sector, where significant investments in artificial intelligence by companies such as Amazon and Microsoft are driving activity across software, cloud management and digital infrastructure.
While economists caution that one quarter does not guarantee a year-long trend, the data underscores Washington’s position as a leader in AI -driven innovation and highlights the growing role of advanced technology investment in the state’s economy.
Read more in The Seattle Times.
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