In the adjoining states of Wisconsin and Minnesota, we have a perfect example of how Republican governance and that of Democrats differs in both practice and outcome.
In 2010, Wisconsin elected Republican Scott Walker, who received massive support from the oil baron, hyper-conservative Koch brothers. He immediately began to implement the Koch program by refusing pay raises for public employees, by cutting taxes on the well-to-do and by refusing to expand Medicaid for the poor in the state. He also proposed raising tuition at the state university by 13 percent and to change its mission from education for all to education in support of business interests.
In the same election year, Minnesota elected Democrat Mark Dayton. In a strong contrast to Walker, Dayton supported Obamacare and developed a well-operated state exchange. He supported a popular statewide program for higher minimum wage and led action for an increase in teacher salaries with a reduction in class size.
As a result of these major differences in governing, these two states, which once closely resembled each other, have diverged. Wisconsin has lost population, while Minnesota has grown. After all, given a choice, which one would you choose to live in?
Benita Helseth
Lake Stevens
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