MADISON – Assembly Majority Leader Jim Steineke (R-Kaukauna) released the following statement after Governor Evers delivered his State of the State address virtually this evening, pointing to the challenges that 2020 brought and what he envisions for 2021.
“Undoubtedly, 2020 has been one of the most difficult years we’ve faced in our state’s storied history. And with each new challenge that has arose, Wisconsin Republicans have risen to the occasion to address these issues head-on.
“From passing COVID relief bills, to assisting our struggling constituents with unemployment insurance benefits, to offering our aid in a vaccination rollout – when lives were on the line, my colleagues and I have fought for Wisconsin families.
“That’s why tonight’s speech from Governor Evers is so frustrating. It’s almost like our teacher-turned-governor is trying to rewrite the history books while class is still in session.
“Tonight, we heard absolutely nothing about how Governor Evers abdicated all responsibility when tens of thousands of Wisconsin workers were begging for help in receiving their unemployment aid. Where was the leadership?
“Tonight, not once did the governor mention the fact that Wisconsin currently lags nearly every one of its peers in making sure we’re providing Covid-19 vaccines to our residents. He’s had 10 months to put together a clear plan and still has almost nothing to show for it today. Where is the leadership?
“Tonight, we heard absolutely nothing about the conservative reforms and budgets that have helped make sure our state stands on solid footing as we whether the effects of a global pandemic. Instead, we heard plenty of ways that Wisconsin taxpayers could be left on the hook to pay even more. Where is the leadership in that?
“Wisconsin families deserve a leader that is going to tell it to them the way it is and not continually shirk responsibility or pass the buck. And while I believe our friends and neighbors have found a way to persevere through these unprecedented times, I don’t for a second think it’s in any way thanks to any leadership shown by Governor Evers – it’s actually occurred despite it.
“Wisconsin needs a leader that will work to tackle the important issues of our time head-on. And what I was able to discern through the static on the television set tonight, it is clear that Governor Evers is not the best-equipped person to handle that job.”
