Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton is beginning to forcefully make the case for his side in the budget showdown that's led to a government shutdown, with this video, an
accompanying op-ed, and a
tour of the state that begins today.
Dayton says:
I have offered over $2 Billion in cuts to existing programs, and proposed to raise income taxes only on taxpayers who earn over one million dollars per year.
The Republicans said No.
In the spirit of compromise, I said I would agree to raise taxes on cigarettes, even though I do not personally support such a tax increase.
The Republicans said No.
No compromise. Republican legislators insist on having it all their way, or no way. That is not responsible, or even rational, leadership.
If this budget impasse is to be resolved fairly and equally, respecting each side’s mandate, then the Republicans and I must both compromise. That was the will of the people of Minnesota expressed in last year’s election. That is what the people of Minnesota want and deserve today.
Meanwhile, the Minnesota Supreme Court has agreed to take a case asking how much authority the courts have to order spending during shutdowns. At present, courts are deciding what government functions are indispensable and will continue during the shutdown; the Supreme Court could decide that the courts don't have the authority to continue doing so.