George,

I read with dismay that both candidates for Governor are touting tax relief, as if Virginia didn't have multiple unfunded demands as it is. That this relief is being presented as a means to "discipline local governments" should make us all wonder. By what alchemy has the role of Virginia's governor been transformed into running local governments?

First Gilmore takes a local taxing authority and now both candidates are pandering to the right wing anti-tax fervor, but not putting state funding much at risk. When are we going to get some adults to run for Governor?

Al Weed (electronic mail, March 24, 2005)

Editor's Note: Al Weed is the brainchild behind Public Policy Virginia.

For related material, see Kaine Urges Tax Break for Homeowners, Candidates Tout Tax Relief, and Tax Relief: Promises, Promises. And A Broken Social Contract, How Virginia Steals From its Cities, and Area Non-Profits Band Together in Budget Disputes.