Dueling Statehouse Rallies

Those with concern over Governor Baldacci’s supplemental budget gathered in Augusta yesterday as the Appropriations Committee focused on Health and Human Services.   ”Not since state government shut down in the budget crisis of 1991 has the Hall of Flags been so packed with distressed Mainers,” said MPBN.  Maine Can Do Better (led by Ben Dudley) opposed Baldacci’s cuts, even if it means higher taxes.  The Maine Heritage Policy Center showed up in support of Baldacci’s no tax increase position on the budget.

Among those calling for him to hold the line against tax increases were several Republican candidates for governor. Matt Jacobson, Paul LePage, and Bruce Poliquin all made appearances. Otten, meanwhile was on television. Otten made it on the air first with his “Jobs, Jobs, Jobs” ad a few months ago. He remains the only candidate to air a television ad, but not everyone likes what they are seeing.

Other candidates have been making similar tax related pledges almost from the start.  Matt Jacobson said in a release, “I oppose any and all proposals to raise taxes. Period. Maine people are some of the most highly-taxed in the nation. Higher taxes stifle innovation and job creation. Tax increases would take the state in the wrong direction.” Jacobson, LePage, Poliquin, and Otten all signed the “taxpayer protection pledge” back in October. Jacobson also proposed eliminating income taxes on active duty and military veteran pay, as well as phasing out the estate tax.

Bruce Poliquin made his position on taxes clear from the start. Poliquin has posted his views on taxes at his campaign blog.  From his first post in May of last year to his most recent on LD1495, Poliquin has articulated his position on taxes and tax reform in Maine.  In supporting TABOR in the November elections, Poliquin attempted to cement his position as a strong fiscal conservative.  Poliquin put a lot of money down in support of TABOR.  LePage also strongly supported TABOR, though not to the financial level of Poliquin.

Paul LePage is no stranger to fiscal conservatism, though.  Fiscal responsibility, tax reform, and TABOR are the first three item in his “Vision”.  All of the items in his vision at least mention taxes or taxpayers.  LePage, who supports the repeal of all new sales taxes, says, “Government tax and spend practices will come to an end, and I will fight to keep every dollar possible where it rightfully belongs, in your pocket.”

If Otten is trying to paint himself as the most fiscally conservative candidate he is going to have a difficult time.  Yes, the “Job Creator in Chief” does a couple of ads on the air.  That does bring him to the public’s attention.  When voters look close they may be asking, what is Otten saying that the other Republicans aren’t?  Not much. Be sure to check out our collection of the Republican candidate’s opinions on the tax reform bill.  Otten has yet to respond.