A few quick thoughts on the Governor’s State of the State tonight:
1. The Governor has some more selling to do, and that starts tomorrow. Augusta is tepid about his plan, but he delivers it with passion. That approach won him the Blaine House for a second term and may win him substantial tax reform.
2. There is a lot more in this budget that everyone should like – fighting Maine’s drug epidemic, eliminating the waiting lists for some of Maine’s most needy, and moving individuals from welfare to work.
3. The Governor offered an open hand to the Legislature, Democrats and Republicans alike. He recognized that he needs their help and implored them to work together.
All in all, it was a great start to the 127th Legislature. We’ll see what tomorrow brings.