MADISON – State Representative Jessie Rodriguez (R-Oak Creek) released the following reaction to the State of the State Address delivered by Governor Tony Evers on Wednesday evening:
“I found the Governor’s State of the State Address a little puzzling. He boasts a strong economy, citing a reduced tax burden on Wisconsinites. Let’s be clear, Legislative Republicans have spent the last two decades working diligently to reduce the tax burden in our state.
“Make no mistake – the reduced tax burden in Wisconsin is not due to the governor’s ideas, but oftentimes in spite of them. In the last budget alone, he proposed tax increases that would have cost taxpayers nearly $1.4 billion. We rejected Evers’ tax increases, and instead sent a budget to his desk that would have provided the largest tax cut in state history, but the Governor vetoed over $3 billion worth of income tax relief we sought to provide. Just last session, Governor Evers vetoed three separate packages of legislation aimed at cutting taxes. Now he wants to take credit for a reduced tax burden?
“I can’t boast a strong economy to my constituents. By far the most common concern I heard from voters in my district this past fall was that inflation is making it harder than ever to make ends meet. Everything from groceries to gas costs more these days. It’s essential that we take action at the state level to help Wisconsinites keep more of their hard-earned money.
“I’m also surprised that the Governor didn’t address reckless driving in his speech. In my district, this is a major concern, second only to inflation. Reckless driving has become a serious public safety issue, and I hope Governor Evers recognizes its prevalence and is open to supporting solutions that can make our communities safer.
“In just under four weeks, the Governor will release his executive budget proposal. I remain hopeful that he will put forth a reasonable plan that addresses the number one issue facing my district – inflation. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Joint Finance Committee to craft a budget that truly works for Wisconsin.”