There are no governments, only corporations. Amazon strong-arms Seattle.

When Amazon said its second home would be elsewhere, Seattle-area leaders sent a letter asking, among other things, that the city and its largest private employer hit the “refresh button” in their relationship. A month later, Amazon proposed a meeting in South Lake Union, according to Daniel Beekman, Seattle Times staff reporter. 

  The Amazon Spheres and Day One, part of Amazon’s huge and sparkling-new complex in downtown Seattle. (Kjell Redal/The Seattle Times)   

No doubt this was in response to Amazon’s announcement in September that it was seeking to build a second headquarters outside Seattle.  

Opinions differ on the motives, effects, and consequences associated with the public and private sector relationship, although it’s become increasingly difficult to distinguish any meaningful difference. You can’t slip a paper between the two. 

This much is certain. Amazon’s 2nd headquarters announcement was a ploy to coerce city leaders into extending additional real estate concessions, business subsidies, and tax incentives. With its 40,000 plus employees in the city, Amazon has the means, ability, and resources to bully its way past elected officials and negotiation protocols.  

The Seattle-area leaders’ letter wasn’t so much a refresh button seeking renegotiations than it was a letter-of-surrender. Amazon now knows it owns the keys to the city. 

As to Amazon seeking a second headquarters. Memo to Amazon. History has taught us that an empire can’t have to capitols. Rome and Constantinople come to mind.   

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