Republicans Vow Tax Cuts as Wisconsin Lawmakers Begin 2025-27 Session
Wisconsin lawmakers are sworn in, with Republicans promising tax cuts amid a tighter legislative landscape
Wisconsin, Tax Cuts, Republicans, Legislative Session, Budget Surplus
Wisconsin: The state’s lawmakers gathered on Monday to take their oaths for the new session. It’s the start of the 2025-27 legislative period, and there’s a lot on the table.
Justice Rebecca Bradley from the Wisconsin Supreme Court was there to administer the oaths. It was a big day for everyone, with family and friends cheering them on.
Republicans still hold the majority, but their lead is a bit slimmer now. The Assembly has 54 Republicans and 45 Democrats, while the Senate has 18 Republicans and 15 Democrats. There are quite a few new faces, too, with 31 new Assembly members and six new Senators.
After the swearing-in, they got right to work, setting up leadership roles and planning the session’s calendar. Assembly Speaker Robin Vos was re-elected, continuing his long run in that role.
Vos made it clear that while they want to find common ground, they won’t compromise their principles. He’s pushing for a tax cut, especially with a $4.5 billion budget surplus in play.
He emphasized that the funds for the tax cut won’t be diverted for other projects, no matter the pressure from special interests. It’s a firm stance, and he’s sticking to it.
But it won’t be smooth sailing. Governor Tony Evers and the Democrats are looking to have more say this time around, given the closer margins. Vos hinted that this might make it harder to get things done.
There’s also a new committee focused on improving government efficiency, which Vos is excited about. It’s inspired by some ideas from the private sector, aiming to streamline operations.
In the Senate, Mary Felzkowski was elected as President, making history as the second woman to hold that position. She’s all about fostering bipartisan discussions and ensuring everyone gets a chance to speak.
Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu is focused on returning that budget surplus to taxpayers and creating a balanced budget. He’s not shy about calling out Evers for his plans, which include more education spending.
On the other hand, Senate Minority Leader Dianne Hesselbein is urging everyone to work together. She wants to tackle issues like affordable healthcare and safe schools, emphasizing the need for cooperation.
The first half of 2025 will be crucial as they work on the state budget. Evers is already proposing some changes, but Republicans are quick to push back, insisting the budget should focus on financial matters, not policy changes.
It’s going to be an interesting session, and everyone’s watching to see how it all unfolds.