Amid a contentious atmosphere and recall effort, Gov. Scott Walker delivered his State of the State Address at the Capitol Wednesday, calling for a continued effort to improve Wisconsin’s economy.
The governor spoke about improving worker skills, easing government regulations to help spark economic growth, education reforms and making government less wasteful. But the major focus was on jobs.
At Wednesday’s address, Walker introduced his Wisconsin Working plan, designed to improve job skills and create more opportunities for veterans.
“When I ran for Governor, I talked a great deal about the core principles I call ‘Brown Bag Common Sense,’” Walker said. “One of those principles is that people create jobs, not the government.”
Walker and Republicans in the legislature have asserted fewer taxes, less government regulations and keeping a balanced budget will create a better business climate in Wisconsin and lead to more jobs.
Opponents, however, disputed such claims at a Democratic response held shortly after Walker finished his speech.
Senate Minority Leader Mark Miller, D-Monona, criticized policies Walker and the Republican controlled legislature have passed.
“Democrats believe everyone is part of the solution,” Miller said.
“Government and the private sector should work together to create jobs. Democrats have and continue to push proposals that businesses and workers are asking for.”
Walker also described “money saving reforms” he made in education. A major reason opponents targeted the governor for recall is legislation passed last year, which effectively ended collective bargaining rights for public employees, notably teachers. Walker defended that decision Wednesday.
“We can have great schools and protect taxpayers at the same time. We just have to spend our money more wisely,” Walker said.
During the Democratic response, Miller criticized cuts made to the education budget, saying investment in education is essential for a strong economy.
“Whether it is K-12, the technical college system or our University of Wisconsin System, we know that investment in education keeps our workforce strong,” he said.
Reflecting the passionate political fight that will undoubtedly envelope the state for months to come, a crowd of protesters chanting “Shame!” were outside waiting for Walker after his speech.
