2010 Campaign Issues:

Democrats have taken our state in the wrong direction. On the key issues, the difference is clear:

• Democrats chose to raise taxes, Republicans believe these new taxes will hurt our economy and slow job creation.
• Democrats cut funding for our schools, Republicans said no further cuts to education.
• Democrats kept spending and protecting their special interests, Republicans said stop the spending and reform state government.

Read more about the major issues impacting our state:

Creating Jobs, Getting the Economy Back on Track

The prviate sector has lost more than 170,000 jobs since the beginning of 2008. Unemployment stands at 9.3%. Washington families and small businesses are struggling. Rather than ease the budren, Democrats passed the largest tax increase in state history. Republicans will kickstart the economy by providing relief to small businesses and opposing job-killing tax increases.

Washington Budget Blues

Democrats' reckless spending - an increase of 35% - has resulted in multi-billion dollar deficits, drastic cuts to education, and higher taxes. Democrat special interest groups continue to prosper, while taxpayers and our kids pay the price. Democrats have refused to reform state government to put us on a path to long-term financial stability without further tax increases.

Higher Taxes, Gutting the Will of the People

Democrats voted to repeal I-960, the initiative requiring a 2/3 vote of the Legislature to raise taxes. Then, the Democrats raised taxes. Senate Democrats approved a $900 million tax package in 2010 that will hit small businesses and families with higher sales and B&O taxes.

Cutting Public Education, Raising Class Sizes

Democrats voted to suspend voter-approved initiatives for class sizes and teacher retention and pay. This means fewer teachers and larger class sizes. The Democrats cut $1.5 billion in funding for education, including $800 from our K-12 public schools.