Dear Neighbors and Friends,
I wanted to send a quick note about the February budget forecast that was released last Thursday by state economists. The report showed a looming $1.5 billion deficit through 2027, overshadowing a $3.715 billion surplus for what’s left of the current budget cycle.
In the days following the report, many Democrats in St. Paul have had trouble using the word “deficit” for the budget mess they have created. Instead, they have tried to avoid criticism by rebranding the term as a “structural imbalance.”
It should be no surprise that Democrats have invented new terminology to avoid calling last Thursday’s news exactly what it is—a budget deficit. This Democrat Deficit is the direct result of their reckless and irresponsible economic policies that continue to drive inflation and higher costs of every day goods for Minnesota families.
It is amazing to think what a difference a year can make. At this time last year, Minnesota had a nearly $20 billion budget surplus. A few short months later, the Democrat majority had spent every bit of that amount, raised taxes by an additional $10 billion, and ultimately crafted a budget that increased state spending by 40%. Now the state is looking at a projected budget deficit.
Instead of giving last year’s surplus back to you to help mitigate the consequences of their economic policies, Democrats doubled and tripled down on the out-of-control spending and raised taxes on all Minnesotans.
Balance is badly needed in St. Paul because Minnesotans are sick and tired of being treated like an ATM to pay for Democrats’ out-of-touch agenda.
Staying in Touch
Do not hesitate to share your concerns or if we can assist when dealing with a state agency.
Please share this Koznick Connection with neighbors who would be interested. They can sign up for future Koznick Connections here.
I look forward to seeing many of you around town in the coming days and weeks.
Happily advocating AND fighting for you,
Jon Koznick
State Representative