State Governments Limp Into 2009

Ohio’s budget outlook is horrible, but in some states the road ahead is even more difficult.  Here are some clips from around the country and what’s going on in other state capitals.

• IN Governor Daniels to state workers: Skip Raises – Indianapolis Star
• In budget crises, states reluctantly halt road projects – New York Times
• Union sues Schwarzenegger over mandatory days off – Los Angeles Times
• Rhode Island has lost jobs 11 months in a row – Hartford Courant
• Governor says MI will get through tough times – Associated Press
• Hawaii budget plan taps rainy day fund – Honolulu Advertiser
• Corzine: No easy fix for financial woes in 2009 – Philadelphia Inquirer
• Across the board cuts in Iowa – Des Moines Register
• Layoffs in store for some Alabama state workers – Business Week

Unfortunately, there’s lots more.

Full Text: Former U.S. Rep. Jim Leach Speech to Democratic National Convention

As a Republican, I stand before you with deep respect for the history and traditions of my political party. But it is clear to all Americans that something is out of kilter in our great republic. In less than a decade America’s political and economic standing in the world has been diminished. Our nation’s extraordinary leadership in so many areas is simply not reflected in the partisan bickering and ideological politics of Washington. Seldom has the case for an inspiring new political ethic been more compelling. And seldom has an emerging leader so matched the needs of the moment. Read more