Seattle Mayor Regrets Past Comments on Starbucks Boycott and Wealthy Residents

Seattle's mayor said comments made as mayor-elect were not productive and caused more harm than good. The statements had included support for striking baristas and a call not to buy from the coffee company. The mayor also addressed earlier remarks that dismissed the possibility of high earners leaving the state due to tax increases.

Those comments described such concerns as overblown and suggested that residents who left could simply depart.

Starbucks is considering growth of its headquarters in Nashville, Tennessee. The company is also evaluating whether to leave its original city entirely.

Other city officials have continued to meet privately with business leaders to address concerns. The mayor has not issued a public apology regarding comments about a finance executive's residence.