GOP: Dems Out of Touch With Public

The State House Republican Caucus has released the following statement:

House Republicans said comments by the Speaker of the House, in response to a poll that showed the majority of the public believes the past legislative session did not live up to expectations, shows how really out of touch Democrats are with Hawaii's people.

House Speaker Calvin Say said, "I am just shocked at the expectations. What are their expectations? We didn't raise taxes. I was taken aback."

"Those statements show how out of touch the Democrats are with the interests and needs of the public. The public wants a school system that works, and help with the high cost of living," said House Republican Leader Galen Fox. "We failed the people. For the Democrats to imply 'we didn't raise your taxes so be grateful' is just out of line."

Rep. Colleen Meyer (R-Laie, Kahaluu) said she was glad the public felt the increase in the number of Republicans was good for the legislature and vowed the next session will see more pressure by Republicans to meet public expectations.

"The public needs to have their tax burden reduced and that includes eliminating the GET on food, medical services, and rent. We also need to create a better business climate by accelerating the de-pyramiding of the excise tax. We provided no real relief for Hawaii residents and businesses, and that will be a top priority for next year," she said. "The Republican agenda includes a more efficient government, accountability in spending, and tax relief. And that is what the public expects."

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