Saying “No” to Big Government, Higher Taxes

Dear Fellow Idahoans,

People in District 20 know what to expect from me in the Idaho Legislature. I cast a lot of “No” votes – as in “No” to big government and “No” to higher taxes.

But, in reality, I’m saying “Yes” to the hard-working taxpayers who are tired of handing their paychecks over to big-government solutions for everything from air quality to ineffective mass transportation – and higher taxes.

Every year in the Legislature there is massive pressure to create new programs, increase spending and raise taxes. This year is no exception. Legislators approved a 4% increase in spending and congratulated themselves for “holding the line” on the budget. I was not among those celebrating.

So many people are worried about whether state government has enough to operate with during tough economic times. Government will survive. My concern is with the taxpayers and businesses owners who often don’t see their income even approaching a 4 percent increase.

Government cannot spend us out of a recession. Economic recovery depends on businesses, which provide jobs for our citizens. I almost always support tax incentives for our businesses, because the money does not sit idle. It is reinvested into equipment and people.

On the spending side, I will continue fighting for zero-based budgeting, which forces government agencies to justify their spending. We need to get away from the mindset that agencies should automatically receive more funding than the previous year. I am not interested in promoting big-government solutions or “bringing home the bacon” for my district. My interest is with fiscal responsibility and giving taxpayers a chance to have more freedom to decide how to use their hard-earned money.

If my constituents think that my conservative views are out of touch with District 20, then they should vote for my opponent. But, if you agree with me that government is running amok and we need to apply the brakes, then I am your candidate.

I ask for your vote on Tuesday, May 25th.

Sincerely,

Sen. Shirley McKague

Important Issues

Welfare reform

“A hand up, not a handout.”

Pro-Life

“Life is precious whether it be in the beginning or the end of our existence on earth.”

Family

“Strong families result in a strong moral fiber of our society, which can ultimately result in a reduction in juvenile crime.”

Taxes

“I will continue to work to reduce taxes. Let’s go to zero-based budgeting and stop growing government.”

Transportation

“Let’s not wait for a government solution. Give private enterprise a chance to solve the problem and provide jobs in the meantime.”

Education

“Give our best teachers a chance to earn more pay … and give parents more choice opportunities.”

Seniors

“I will continue to work on legislation to give more property tax relief to seniors.”

Property Rights

“I will continue to fight to protect property owners from eminent domain and higher taxes.”

The Economy

“Economic recovery depends on a thriving businesses community, not a thriving government. I want to stop excessive regulations on businesses.”