New Washington governor outlines goals as state faces multibillion-dollar deficit

New Washington Governor Sets Ambitious Goals Amid Budget Crisis

Governor Bob Ferguson aims to tackle a $12 billion deficit while enhancing state services and collaboration across party lines

Politics

Washington, Bob Ferguson, Budget Deficit, Government Reform, Education, Law Enforcement

Seattle: Bob Ferguson, the new governor of Washington, just laid out his plans during his inaugural speech. He’s all about helping people while making the government work better. With the state Legislature kicking off its first week, he’s got a lot on his plate.

Ferguson, who was the state’s top prosecutor for over ten years, is stepping into some big shoes. He’s taking over from Jay Inslee, who was governor for three terms, the longest ever in Washington.

Right now, Washington is facing a serious budget shortfall of at least $12 billion over the next four years. Ferguson’s budget plan includes cutting state agency spending by at least $4 billion, but he wants to make sure K-12 education, public safety, and the ferry system stay protected.

Interestingly, he didn’t dive into the numbers during his speech. Instead, he shared stories about his family and reached out to lawmakers from both parties, emphasizing the need for teamwork to support law enforcement, farmers, and young people.

“Let’s listen to each other and let the best ideas win,” he said. That’s a pretty solid approach, right?

Ferguson is also backing the Homes for Heroes legislation, which helps first responders and health professionals get low-interest home loans. Plus, he’s keen on tackling the youth mental health crisis and wants to set some reasonable limits on the governor’s emergency powers.

He mentioned he’d work with President Trump when possible but made it clear he’d stand up against him when necessary, especially regarding reproductive rights for Washingtonians.

To kick things off, he plans to sign an executive order to gather experts and policymakers to address health issues. He’s also pushing for a law that would stop the National Guard from other states from coming into Washington without permission.

“Texas and Montana have done it, and we should too,” he said.

Ferguson pointed out that Washington has the fewest law enforcement officers per capita in the country. His budget proposal includes $100 million every two years to boost the number of officers. He’s also looking to invest $600 million in housing and $240 million every two years to ensure every student gets school lunches.

He believes free breakfast and lunch should be part of basic education, which would help kids learn better and save parents some cash.

Ferguson is all about making government work for the people. He wants to speed things up, improve customer service, and keep individuals at the heart of every decision.

“I’m in politics because I believe in the power of government to improve lives,” he said. “But I also know it doesn’t always deliver. I’m here to change that.”

Image Credits and Reference: https://www.yahoo.com/news/washington-governor-outlines-goals-state-003617873.html