Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-33)
Gov. Josh Shapiro’s proposed budget is strikingly disconnected from the reality faced by everyday Pennsylvanians; one must wonder – what planet is he on? Valued at a staggering $51 billion, this boondoggle, which plays fast and loose with the numbers, represents an astonishing increase of $3.6 billion – equating to a 7.5% hike from the previous year. Let’s be crystal clear: this type of reckless spending is not only unrealistic but also unsustainable, placing additional burdens on hard-working citizens who are already grappling with the consequences of Shapiro’s erratic energy policies.
Can you say, “Tax hikes coming soon?”
At the core of this budget lies an absurd assumption that the state will generate five times more revenue than the previous year. The reality of this claim? It equates to impending tax hikes that most Pennsylvanians can’t afford. Shapiro’s approach to spending is alarming, as it seems to disregard the basic principle of fiscal responsibility; eventually, the funds from “we the people” will run dry.
Consider this stark financial reality: Shapiro’s budget outspends expected state revenue by $4 billion for next year. What family operates on a budget that includes expenditures exceeding their income? It is not only irresponsible; it crosses over into sheer madness.
Moreover, Shapiro’s budget panders to his allies in the school unions – an additional $800 million sent to groups who were pivotal in financing his gubernatorial run. However, while funding increases, our school-age population is diminishing, and academic performance is declining. Pennsylvania spends an average of $23,000 per student yet ranks 32nd out of 50 states in education quality. In contrast, in 2018, we had a lower spending rate yet were positioned at 28th. Despite pouring billions into the educational system, results are deteriorating. It’s imperative that we demand Pennsylvania ranks among the top 10 states in educational outcomes, rather than languishing in the bottom third.
During our 2022 gubernatorial campaign, Shapiro and I were neck and neck in September polling, with me leading on critical issues such as school choice and energy expansion. Demonstrating his political acumen, Shapiro promised to champion school choice – even in the blue heart of Philadelphia, where it enjoys bipartisan support. But where is that commitment today? It has seemingly evaporated, and I am here to hold him accountable once again.
School choice is an essential mechanism that allows parents to determine the optimal educational path for their children. It fosters innovation, accountability and competition among schools. By providing families the autonomy to select from public, charter, private or homeschooling options, school choice encourages personalized learning experiences that cater to specific needs, leading to enhanced educational outcomes.
However, instead of pursuing meaningful reforms for Pennsylvania’s families, Shapiro has opted to placate his political allies, directing nearly another $1 billion into public schools without insisting on improved results for our children.
Their financial strategy may be vaporware, but our commitment to the people of Pennsylvania is as real as it gets. It’s time for a budget and leadership that reflects the needs and aspirations of our families – the ones who are truly footing the bill.
Shapiro’s budget is both unrealistic and dangerous: unrealistic due to the sheer absence of available funds and dangerous because it jeopardizes the financial well-being of Pennsylvanians through unchecked spending.
The people of this great commonwealth deserve a governor who has their backs – not one who stands on them. Josh Shapiro, it’s time to stop the photo ops and start getting something done for the people of Pennsylvania.
Sen. Doug Mastriano represents the 33rd Senatorial District, covering all of Adams and Franklin counties.