“Fiscal analysts are predicting that our state economy — much like the national outlook — will continue creeping onward the rest of the biennium. I guess we can take solace in the fact that forward motion, however halting it might be, is better than no motion at all. Washington should fare better than most of the rest of the nation as we grind our way through this financial quagmire. Forecast gurus say we still face the risk of anothernational recession, but, thank goodness, such a looming threat has lately slowed.
“Now, let’s be clear. While we didn’t create this economic crisis, you bet we’ll step up to the job of getting it right. Washington people are sick and tired of party politics. What’s called for is a bipartisan attitude in mending the shortfall, a collaborative solution in addressing the billions of dollars in substandard revenue collections. We must not pit the health, safety, and well-being of one vulnerable group against the health, safety, and well-being of other vulnerable groups. It seems to me that thatis exactly the type of combative, deconstructive thinking that got us into this mess.
“If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a hundred times: We are one Washington, and we don’t turn our backs on neighbors in need. We must re-establish our momentum on a strong foundation of safe, healthy, educated, and hard-working citizens. And we must advocate opportunities for every one of our workers, our small businesses, and our cutting-edge industries.”