SAINT PAUL – Rep. Ben Bakeberg (R-Jordan) issued the following statement on the February Budget and Economic Forecast released Thursday showing a continued looming budget deficit:
“After Democrats spent a record $17.5 billion surplus last session to grow Minnesota’s state budget by 40 percent, it is no surprise that today’s forecast shows a looming deficit. Minnesotans already received a $10 billion tax hike to pay for Democrat’s out-of-control spending spree last year. They cannot afford more tax increases to pay off any future deficits. Just like our own family budgets, state government should evaluate, prioritize, and adjust spending accordingly to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars.”
The February budget forecast showed a $3.7 billion surplus in 2025, but a $1.5 billion deficit beginning in 2026. The deficit is forecasted as if the surplus will not be spent, meaning any new spending bills passed in 2024 will further increase the deficit.
“The Democrat deficit highlights the problem with one-party control of state government,” said Bakeberg. “We need balance at the Capitol so we can stop the reckless spending, like the $730 million palace for politicians. I will continue fighting for your family budget and putting a stop to Democrats’ irresponsible and unaffordable policies.”
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