Whopper of the Day - July 24th:

the truth about NEEDING MORE STATE SPENDING

In 2007, Brian Schweitzer preached about state government’s dire need for additional funds as they implemented the largest budget in state history. As the first fiscal year comes to a close, Governor Schweitzer proudly proclaimed that state agencies spent at least $14 million less than they were authorized; clearly illustrating his claims of need were overblown. Now excess tax dollars are sitting in Helena instead of in the pockets of taxpayers who are struggling to fill their gas tanks and put food on the table.

Schweitzer statements indicating the need for increased funds

In response to Republican proposals for more tax cuts in the 2007 legislature, “Schweitzer said it can happen only if Republicans want to hack away at spending for obvious needs..."

(Source: GOP Plans To Break Up Budget Bill. Helena Independent Record, February 14, 2007)

"Schweitzer defends his budget increases by citing the state has a need to "educate, medicate and incarcerate" and pay for these programs' rising costs."

(Source: Smashing The Budget And Slicing The Pie. Helena Independent Record, February 25, 2007)

"Schweitzer told lawmakers during the morning hearing that his budget spends needed money…"

(Source: GOP Kills Governor’s Proposed Budget. Helena Independent Record, February 14, 2007)

Schweitzer now takes credit for agencies not spending money that just over a year ago was “needed”

“Montana state government is also living within its means and not overspending. In fact, at least $14 million will be saved by agencies actually spending less than the budget authority they received from the 2007 legislature”.

(Source: Brian Schweitzer Press Release, Governor Schweitzer: Continued Growth of State’s General Fund. July 23, 2008)

Schweitzer even believes it’s good that taxpayer money sits needlessly in Helena

“‘Good news. Good news,’ Schweitzer said. ‘Where we're at is in a better place than we thought we would be at.”

(Source: State Surplus $210M More Than Expected. Billings Gazette, July 24, 2008)

Brian Schweitzer … You Just Can’t Trust Him