Raleigh, N.C. – According to news reports, Governor Beverly Perdue told reporters yesterday that she does not care which combination of tax increases the Democratic Legislative leaders agree on as Democrats continue closed door negotiations about the state budget.  Governor Perdue also reportedly contends that the state is missing out on $5 million a day in budget cuts and tax increases because of the delay.  (“Perdue: Indecision costs $5 million a day,” News & Observer, 7/2/09)

Senate Republican Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) said, “Governor Perdue was elected only months ago promising new leadership and new priorities for North Carolina.  What we now see is no leadership and continuation of old, failed priorities.  Not only has she failed to attack the problem of waste in state government, she has made it clear that she would rather raise taxes on North Carolina families and small businesses than take on the special interests.  Now is the time for serious leaders with a clear vision and bold ideas.”

“Governor Perdue needs to start caring.  It is the Governor’s job to care about policies and to care about people.  If the Governor is going to propose $1.5 billion in job-destroying tax increases, she needs to care about what their effects will be on North Carolina families and businesses.”

House Republican Leader Paul Stam (R-Wake) said, “Governor Perdue desperately wants to raise taxes.  The people don’t agree.  Her approach will harm the people.  As long as this Continuing Resolution remains in place, the people are saving about $3 million per day in unjust taxes.”

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