State budget talks stall at capitol; Gov. Evers issues statement

MADISON, Wis (CIVIC MEDIA) – Negotiations between Governor Tony Evers and top Republicans on the state budget have hit a wall, and state officials have issued statements expressing their disappointment with the talks stalling.

Last night, key GOP leaders said talks had reached an impasse – despite what they called “good faith negotiations.” Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu and budget committee co-chair Senator Howard Marklein said taxpayers simply can’t afford the governor’s spending priorities.

In response, Evers said he kept his end of the bargain, backing tax cuts for the middle class and retirees, but Republicans wouldn’t budge on his calls for childcare, education, and funding for the UW System.

Wisconsin has the largest budget surplus on record, according to an analysis from the nonpartisan Wisconsin Policy Forum. The Joint Finance Committee (JFC) stripped hundreds of items from the Governor’s budget proposal last month. And it meets again this afternoon.

Gov. Evers expressed his discontentment with negotiations faltering, but says he remains committed to working with the GOP:

“I am grateful to the legislators and legislative staff for their efforts over the past several weeks to reach a bipartisan agreement that would have delivered on key priorities for Wisconsinites,” Evers said. “The concept of compromise is simple—everyone gets something they want, and no one gets everything they want.” 

“We’ve spent months trying to have real, productive conversations with Republican lawmakers in hopes of finding compromise and passing a state budget that everyone could support—and that, most importantly, delivers for the people of Wisconsin. I am admittedly disappointed that Republican lawmakers aren’t willing to reach consensus and common ground and have decided to move forward without bipartisan support instead. 

“I will always try to do the right thing—and compromise in order to get good things done. Wisconsinites expect their elected officials to show up, act in good faith, and work together across the aisle to get things done—that’s what I’ve been committed to doing in these bipartisan negotiations from the get-go, and that remains my commitment.”

State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly shared concerns on the current resources available to schools and childcare services, and how that needs to be addressed in the state budget:

“The success of our state is directly tied to the health of our public schools, our childcare providers, and our system of higher education. That’s where our budget priorities should be focused. Each deserves significant, sustained investments from this legislature.

“I want to be clear: there is not a perfect solution to these challenges. But progress needs partnership and compromise to get what’s best for our kids and communities. I appreciate Governor Evers’ leadership and commitment to putting kids first – that’s what Wisconsin is asking for and desperately needs.”

JFC co-chairs Mark Born and Howard Marklein will hold a press conference prior to participating in an executive session Thursday afternoon, June 5.