Local Leaders React to Walker's State of the State Address

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker (R) delivered the 2013 State of the State Address in Madison Tuesday night. Here's how our Hudson-area state legislators (both Republicans) and our local party chairpersons had to say about it:

State Rep. Dean Knudson (R-Hudson)

“Wisconsin has come a long way in the past two years, and the numbers speak for themselves: we have turned a $3.6 billion dollar deficit into a $342 million surplus, property taxes are down, and so is the unemployment rate.”

“I was pleased to see that the Governor wants to remain focused on job creation and the economy — we need to do more to make sure that money stays in the hands of  hardworking taxpayers. Government should help, and not hinder economic growth.”

State Sen. Sheila Harsdorf (R-River Falls):

“I am encouraged that in tonight’s address the Governor touched on a number of issues that are important to residents and business owners in western Wisconsin. Reducing the tax burden on middle-class families, improving educational outcomes, and reforming government are consistent with our legislative focus on jobs and growing the economy.”

 “In meeting with small businesses and employers in our area, I have consistently heard three areas of concern: finding skilled workers, accessing investment and start-up capital, and the need for regulatory reform. I am pleased these three areas were cited by the Governor as priorities and look forward to working with him and my legislative colleagues to continue moving Wisconsin forward.”

St. Croix County Republican Party Chairman Jesse Garza issued the following statement:

"The Governor gave an inspiring speech that focused on the relationship between education and job growth in Wisconsin. He stated that education in Wisconsin is both a moral and economic imperative. He understands that to have a stong Wisconsin we need several ways to recieve a quality education (i.e. UW Flex Option) and to lift up some of our failing public school systems versus giving up on our future generations."  

"The Governor's visual of the union men and women as they entered the chambers in hard hats carrying our Wisconsin flag captured the true essence of the Wisconsin and American spirit. These men and women are ready continue to lead Wisconsin to prosperity under our message of Wisconsin is Open For Business. It was a great night for Wisconsin and we look forward to a bright 2013."

St. Croix County Party Democratic Party Chairwoman Susan Stori could not immediately be reached for comment. This post will be updated with any statement she provides.

More links

• Scott Walker pledges tax cut, regulatory reform in 'state of state' speech (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
• In State of State address, Walker pushes for tax cuts, mining and more choice schools (Wisconsin State Journal)
• Live blog recap: Walker's State of the State address (The Cap Times)

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