Government That We Can Afford I will work to reduce government spending. We need to prioritize what government does and keep it at an affordable level. We need spending discipline! Minnesota faces a projected massive deficit of over $6 Billion, nearly 20% of the state budget. State government spending has grown much faster than our private economy.
Control spending by limiting government growth to growth in the overall economy
Defund ineffective or redundant government programs
Job Creation I will work to promote job growth. We need jobs! The best way to do that is in the private sector. We need to encourage business formation and attract employers that will hire Minnesotans ready to work. Increased taxation slows private enterprise and chokes job creation. We must restrain business taxes and ease regulatory burdens on employers.
Create an attractive job environment
Promote a partnership between government, private enterprise, and higher education to bring innovative technologies to market
Reduce and simplify burdensome business regulations
Reduce or eliminate the corporate income tax
Excellence in Education I will work to ensure that all Minnesotans have access to quality education. We need an educated population to attract employers and to meet tomorrow?s challenges. I will support excellence in Minnesota?s schools with choice, accountability, and merit.
Provide credits for school choice and early childhood education
Promote excellence with results-based merit pay
Allow alternative licensure with rigorous capability and testing standards
Support minimum competency testing
Enhance accountability with increased local control of schools
Health Care We Can Afford I will promote effective cost control in health care. We need greater patient involvement in health care decisions to ensure quality, along with price competition to control costs.
Remove restrictions on out-of-state insurers to increase market competition
Open access to quality of care and cost information
Promote flexible health insurance options
Transportation I will support affordable and cost-effective transportation initiatives. We need innovative and efficient programs to build and maintain our roads. A strong transportation infrastructure improves efficiency of commerce, energy conservation, and attracts business. We need to prioritize critical projects for cost effectiveness and commercial impact.
