But Do They Mean The Same Thing?

Following release of the December 2011 revenue forecast for general and lottery funds, House Co-Speaker Arnie Roblan (D-Coos Bay) issued the following statement:

Today’s revenue forecast is further evidence that job creation and economic development must be our top priority.  While Oregon continues to grow, it isn’t fast enough for those that are still working to find a job, make their mortgage payments or pay off student loans.  We must use every tool in our toolbox to help get Oregonians back to work.

The budget choices in February are even more difficult after today’s forecast, but our priority must be protecting the middle class while being mindful that further job losses will only cause additional economic harm.  We must be creative, compassionate and smart to achieve outcomes that protect services Oregonians depend on in this tough budget environment.  

That was followed by another news release from Oregon House Co-Speaker Bruce Hanna (R-Roseburg)

“Once again we have a revenue forecast in decline because of continued economic difficulty across our state. Unemployment lingers near ten percent statewide, and it’s much higher in many rural counties. Forecasts for personal income, corporate income and lottery revenues have all dropped, and until we can create a climate in which businesses can grow, create jobs and help spur economic activity, we won't be able to reverse this trend.

Many difficult decisions lie ahead. The Legislature owes it to Oregonians to hold agencies accountable for living within their budgets while making sure the budget is based on priorities that reflect the most critical needs in state government. I remain committed to working with my colleagues and the Governor to make any necessary adjustments to the budget and, even more critically, to stimulate the economy and get Oregon working again.”

The forecast, released by the Office of Economic Analysis, shows that employment is down an additional 3,348 jobs and personal income is down an additional $1.8 billion from the September forecast. Total anticipated general and lottery fund resources for the 2011-2013 biennium are now $306 million less than expected at the close of the 2011 legislative session.

On the surface it appears that  Hanna and Roblan are standing up for the same thing.  This is what I hate about politicians.  These two will be steering the next session of the Oregon House and they don't agree on several elements that will be key to the discussion. So what's needed is an interpretation of what these tow are actually saying in these position statements.

Arnie Roblan hasn't done his homework and thinks Oregon is growing when it clearly is not. This is the most outrageous statement of all.   Arnie Roblan would protect jobs by blocking cuts to government agencies. That does not grow jobs in the private sector where growth is absolutely necessary. The budget cuts are neither difficult, nor complex if you remove the fear of  ignoring the primary directive of the Democratic party and the Teacher's Unions and instead think it through using a little common sense instead. Mr. Roblan thinks the middle class still exists.  It has virtually disappeared which explains the

steady downward trend in the Oregon income picture.

Mr. Hanna would stop short of what is needed. He would hold agencies responsible for staying within budget.  He does not call for agencies to be eliminated or be reassessed to determine how they could operate more efficiently.  He would sent directives these agencies already get and are good at ignoring.

Working with the Governor may not be the best approach. Do you think the Governor would support serious cuts to department heads?  No, he would say what he has said before. He would hold with the idea that sort of discussion isn't central to addressing the needs. he would contend we need to make Government more efficient and more service oriented by hiring more people.  He thinks Oregonians want more interference, not less.

I see no light at the end of the tunnel for Oregon with this kind of leadership in Salem.  It falls short.