MI needs leadership, not more taxes

Last week, Gov. Whitmer’s appointed population council — to which she refused to appoint a member of the Senate Republican caucus — announced its recommendations at its final meeting.

After the governor and Lansing Democrats blew through our state’s budget surplus in less than a year, further bloating the size of government, it is discouraging that her hand-picked council has recommended spending billions more on many of the same items Lansing Democrats ignored. Billions of that surplus could have been used to fix our roads and bridges, bolster our infrastructure, and revamp educational opportunities. Unfortunately, the governor had other priorities. While I’m glad her council didn’t give her every tax hike on their Christmas wish list, I’m sure she’ll still use this report as an excuse to raid the pocketbooks of struggling Michiganders.

Michigan’s slowed population growth is a serious concern for the future of our state but making it more expensive to live and raise a family here will force more people to seek prosperity elsewhere. I believe people spend their own money far more effectively than the government and Senate Republicans will continue to advocate for reducing state taxes and leaving more resources for families and small businesses, expanding freedom, and encouraging hard work and investment to build up a healthier economy and brighter future for all Michiganders.

I continue to stand ready and willing to work with partners from both sides of the aisle to come together and find real solutions that fix our roads, improve education choice and accountability, and lower the cost of doing business in Michigan. Higher taxes are not the right answer.

Should you have any questions or concerns about the legislature or state government, please do not hesitate to contact my office by going to www.SenatorAricNesbitt.com. You may also reach out by calling (517) 373-0793 or by email at SenANesbitt@senate.Michigan.gov. My staff would be happy to assist with issues you may be having with state government agencies, and I look forward to listening and learning about your priorities and concerns for our state.