Lawrence Times

In a statement issued today, Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Lawrence) criticized Gov. Josh Shapiro’s proposed $48.34 billion state budget, calling it a "liberal wish list" that will burden hardworking taxpayers. Bernstine likened the governor's plan to "Bidenomics" and argued that it would replicate the economic struggles of California, where Shapiro's campaign donations originate.

According to Bernstine, the budget proposal includes measures such as Philadelphia mass transit bailouts and doubling the minimum wage, which he believes will have detrimental effects on the economy. Instead, Bernstine advocates for reducing wasteful spending and prioritizing savings for future emergencies.

"The governor’s nearly $50 billion budget proposal is nothing more than an extreme liberal wish list that will cost hardworking taxpayers a fortune," Bernstine stated. "We should be cutting wasteful spending and saving money for a rainy day, not setting up taxpayers for a tidal wave of massive tax hikes."

As a representative of the 8th Legislative District in Pennsylvania, Bernstine joins a growing chorus of Republican lawmakers who oppose the governor's budget proposal. The budget plan is expected to face significant scrutiny and debate in the coming weeks.

It is clear that the proposed budget has drawn a sharp divide in opinion among politicians in the state. While Governor Shapiro believes that his budget will address the needs of Pennsylvania and promote economic growth, Bernstine and other Republicans see it as a threat to taxpayers.

The debate over the state budget is likely to intensify as lawmakers on both sides of the aisle present their arguments and negotiate a final budget that will determine the financial future of Pennsylvania.