Reinforcements Arrive for Baldacci

Governor Baldacci has been under enormous pressure to raise taxes and fees and avoid any cuts to services, particularly Medicaid cuts. So far, he has refused to raise taxes, and has hinted at cuts –big cuts. Well, the folks at Market Decisions delivered a report this week that had to put a big smile on the Governor’s face.

Apparently most Maine people agree with the Governor. A few highlights of the report include:

• Eight in ten Mainers would somewhat or strongly oppose increasing taxes temporarily to address the budget shortfall.

• Half of Mainers would somewhat or strongly oppose broadening the tax base to address the budget shortfall; only three in ten support broadening the tax base.
• Seven in ten Mainers somewhat or strongly support cutting spending to address the budget shortfall.
• Nearly two-thirds of Mainers somewhat or strongly oppose increasing fees charged by government agencies to address the budget shortfall.
• Seven in ten Mainers somewhat or strongly support commissioning a study to identify ways to permanently restructure government and reduce spending.

I think this round goes to the Governor. Of course, never underestimate the legions of lobbyists representing the groups and people that would be affected. Their tenacity is well documented. Either way, this report will embolden the Republicans and certainly strengthen the Governor’s hand.

The next big battle should arrive within the week – the Governor’s “change package.” My money is on no new taxes, a few small fee changes and a massive scaling back of the welfare state. Look for the complete elimination of some Medicaid programs and benefits.

There will be war.