Democrats decide not to be involved in cuts

Oppinion piece by Gary Andersen and Lee Smith of the Fairmont Sentinel

What an incredible ending to the 2009 Minnesota legislative session! Democrats who control the House and Senate were so intent on increasing taxes and spending more money that they completely missed the ramifications of their desires. Unable to prioritize spending, they now face the reality of line-item vetoes and "unallotment" by Gov. Tim Pawlenty. That means Democrats shut themselves out of the process.

As for Pawlenty, he stuck to his word, refusing to raise taxes. We appreciate this. Minnesota - like the nation - is in an economic slump. It is not possible to tax your way out of such a slump. In fact, just the opposite is true. Higher taxes amid a recession are dangerous. And, in a long-term view, higher taxes do not suggest that Minnesota is a place friendly to business. That is already an unfortunate reputation acquired by the state, and exploited by its neighbors.

Pawlenty has begun looking at the state budget and working with his cabinet to trim it. We know he will put a priority on preserving funding for schools, public safety and veterans; things he wanted to protect before the session even began. We hope he also understands the necessity of a sound judicial system and will not shortchange our state courts. We believe, in the end, he and his advisers will make sound choices.