OPINION: Rep. Doug Wardlow on the Future of Minnesota

As we move through the final days of this historic legislative session, marked by an unprecedented budget deficit and persistent economic crisis, two distinct visions for the future of our state have come into view.

Two paths for Minnesota have emerged. Which path we take—which vision we embrace—will impact the freedom and prosperity of Minnesotans for generations to come.

We can build a strong, bright future for Minnesota—one that celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit of Americans. A future that honors Minnesota families as the fundamental building-blocks of our society. A future that will protect our liberty and renew our prosperity.

Or, as governor Mark Dayton proposes, we can fuel out-of-control government spending growth by increasing taxes on Minnesota job creators, undermine the power of free enterprise, destabilize families, and consign Minnesota to a future riddled with debt, high unemployment, and heavy-handed state regulation.

Now, after two long days and nights of Democrat filibustering, the GOP’s budget is on its way to the Governor. We have balanced the budget without raising taxes. We reverse the trajectory of unsustainable, out-of-control government spending. And we provide tax relief to individuals, families, businesses and property owners to help unleash the power of free enterprise and create jobs.

Those who favor growing government by increasing taxes have taken to talking about “compromise.” It is important to understand that our GOP balanced budget meets the governor halfway: Our plan proposes spending $3 billion more than last biennium. This is all the compromise Minnesotans can afford. 

We will not raise taxes to grow government because my GOP colleagues and I trust the genius and the charity of the people of Minnesota. Because we believe in economic liberty and individual freedom. Because we understand that prosperity is the natural result of the free and spirited pursuit of millions of different dreams across Minnesota and not the product of government policies and programs. Because we believe in the ability of Minnesotans and Minnesota families to govern themselves.

Walking alongside Minnesotans of every class and background, my GOP colleagues and I choose the path of limited government, liberty and prosperity.