When I ran for the State Senate, I pledged to restart the heart of Wisconsin’s economy with CPR – Control Taxes, Promote Jobs, Reduce Spending.  CPR are top priorities that I have both achieved and will continue to work on.  With your help, I will continue to stand up for these core principles and fight on your behalf.

Control Taxes – I made a commitment to put the hardworking taxpayers of Wisconsin first and have stood up to the special interests who have lobbied for tax increase after tax increase on middle class families.  The budget passed by myself and the Republican majority included zero tax increases on the working families of Wisconsin. This budget also included a property tax freeze to keep seniors and those with fixed incomes in their homes. That is a far cry from the last budget by the Democrats which included over one billion dollars in tax and fee increases.

Promote Jobs – My top priority since day one has been promoting job creation.  My first piece of legislation, the Rural Jobs Act, dealt with creating and retaining jobs in the rural areas of Wisconsin, including the 29^th Senate District.

Starting in January of 2011, the State Legislature also has held two special sessions focused on improving the economic climate in our state.  Reforms were passed to incentivize job creation and make Wisconsin a better place to relocate, start or expand a business.  Our efforts have laid the foundation for economic success in Wisconsin once the national economy turns around.

Because of the budgetary issues our state faced, many government employees were at risk of losing their jobs.  That just was not an option.  Due to the reforms and flexibilities passed by the Legislature, our state and local municipalities were able to retain these positions and hardworking employees.

Reduce Spending – It was evident that reforms were needed to make state government more efficient and responsible.  Past budgets included out of control borrowing, massive tax increases, and irresponsible fund raids, all at the direction of special interest groups.  Our recent budget rejected those failed policies of the past and was honestly balanced for the first time in years.

While it wasn’t easy, we were able to cut spending across the board, while at the same time protecting vital programs.   Our local governments and school boards were able to use the flexibilities from the Legislature to maintain their services and the high quality of education that is expected in Wisconsin.