For Release: Jan. 14, 2009
Contact: David Clementson
Email: dclementson@oag.state.va.us
Phone: 804-786-2071
Statement of Attorney General Bob McDonnell Regarding Governor’s State of the Commonwealth Address
RICHMOND - Attorney General Bob McDonnell issued the following statement this evening in response to the Governor’s State of the Commonwealth Address:
“Tonight, Governor Kaine addressed the General Assembly and the citizens of our Commonwealth at a time of deep uncertainty and unease. Every day brings new reports of job losses and business closings. Our citizens are facing tough times and tough choices. Virginia’s government is no different.
“A $3 billion budget deficit confronts the Commonwealth. It could grow larger. For that reason the overwhelming focus of the General Assembly must be closing the deficit, responsibly. This will not be easy. However, it does provide an opportunity. This difficult period in our history provides the opportunity to focus upon the core functions of government. It provides an opportunity to cut government spending on programs that do not work or are not a priority. Spending in Virginia has doubled in 10 years, growing 23 percent faster than the rate of growth in population and inflation. This is the opportunity for innovation and entrepreneurship, and to look for every program that can be privatized, consolidated, streamlined, or eliminated. It will be difficult work, but it will set Virginia on a path to smarter and more efficient government. I urge the legislature to keep taxes, litigation and regulation down so that free enterprise and entrepreneurs can thrive in Virginia. New incentives to promote business and create jobs should be adopted.
“The key to success will be setting aside partisanship. This is not a time for political posturing; it is a time for governing. I encourage the Governor and the General Assembly to work across the aisle to balance Virginia’s budget. I look forward to assisting the legislature in making its tough decisions.”
