State of the State address - Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin

Acting Governor Earl Ray Tomblin’s first state of the state address accented the positives of the past year, delivered some much needed optimism for the future of the state and downplayed the controversy still raging over gubernatorial succession.

 

I found it interesting that Tomblin felt comfortable with spending during this time of national hardship. While it is true that West Virginia seems to have weathered the nation’s worst recession in decades relatively well, Tomblin’s proposals for a reduction in the food tax and pay raises for teachers and state employees may well be met with skepticism by conservatives.  As the daughter of a state worker, I should be celebrating any kind of salary increase for my mother, but I must admit Tomblin’s words gave even me pause.   I personally would prefer my governor to exercise some caution and fiscal responsibility until this recession is completely over.  Although we seem to have emerged from the economic downturn relatively unscathed, I have yet to hear an announcement touting the end of the recession.  In my opinion, we have no business going on a spending spree before we know for a fact that we won’t be needing money in the future.  Saving a few dollars at the grocery store or enjoying a small raise now will be cold comfort for people who could lose their jobs in the future.  I’m already missing Joe Manchin.

 

Tomblin touched upon the usual subjects included in a state of the state address in West Virginia.  He touched upon the importance of coal, and talked about the importance of creating a better business climate in the state in order to foster the creation of jobs.  I did agree with his take on education reforms.  Tomblin said, “And while we must do all we can to foster the creation of good paying jobs, it all goes for naught if we do not have a world-class, educated workforce to fill those jobs.”  This statement really resonated with me.  It certainly focused a spotlight on the idea of our issues being interconnected.  When we find a solution for one problem, we may very well be contributing to finding a solution for another one.