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May 14, 2026

Hantavirus Exposures in King County, an LGBTQ+ Civil Emergency, and a Harrowing Story of AI Extortion

City Cast Seattle

Hantavirus Exposures in King County, an LGBTQ+ Civil Emergency, and a Harrowing Story of AI Extortion

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Today on the podcast, Jane is joined by managing editor of Seattle Gay News, Madison Jones, to talk about a tip she received that the city may soon declare a civil emergency for LGBTQ+ refugees fleeing other U.S. states to live in Seattle. Madison explains the kinds of resources a civil emergency grants access to and the circumstances that have led to this moment. Then, producer Sam and contributor Lex Vaughn join for a full rundown on what we know so far about the three King County residents who may have been exposed to hantavirus. And finally, Sam tells Lex and Jane about an AI extortion scam that feels like Taken for 2026. Plus, some helpful ideas for how to avoid similar scams in the future. 


Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:

Travel Dundee

SIFF

FRS Clipper


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