As difficult as the first year of my term was - thanks to the incredible deficit left behind by my predecessor - I could not have asked for a more rewarding and enriching experience than I have enjoyed as your Governor. Thank you for your help and support.
Together we have survived the difficulties that accompany a $2 billion deficit, and today we boast a $623 million surplus.
There are a number of fundamental truths about how government should work. First, we must forge solid partnerships with citizens, communities and businesses to make our state the best it can be.
Second, just as every individual and family must do, government must be able to pay its bills - without raising your taxes.
And, third, government must do all that it can to restore and encourage the traditional, family values that made this country and this state the envy of all the rest.
I believe whole heartedly that the best is not behind us, but rather lies ahead. With a clear agenda, together we will take Minnesota boldly into the 21st Century.
(Signature: Arne Carlson)
Crime: Governor Arne Carlson enacted the most comprehensive and effective crime law in Minnesota history in 1992, and he led the successful 1993 fight to protect victims of stalking. For the 1994 legislative session, Governor Carlson proposed an anti-crime package designed to get at the root causes of crime, while providing mandatory minimum sentences for repeat offenders.
"Once and for all Minnesota is not going to coddle criminals who demonstrate they are unfit to walk our streets," Governor Carlson says. "The crime package I offered will intervene in the lives of young people before it's too late, but for those who do not reform, we promise hard time in a prison cell."Welfare Reform: Governor Arne Carlson presented the Minnesota Legislature with the nation's most thoughtful and effective proposal to reform welfare as we know it. "Minnesota Works" starts by emphasizing the importance of the family and encouraging parents to stay together. His plan rewards individuals for working and does more to help them help themselves than any other plan in the country.
"Minnesota is well-known for its generosity and compassion for those in need," Governor Carlson says. "Unfortunately, we have been taken advantage of for it. My welfare reform plan tells people if you come to Minnesota for assistance, expect a job not a check."Economic Development: Governor Arne Carlson has consistently fought to create a better business climate in Minnesota. He proposed to reform the state's costly and inefficient workers' compensation system by adopting Wisconsin's law which is cost-efficient and effective. The Governor has also fought to reduce the sales tax on replacement equipment, which would aid small businesses.
"If we expect to compete with neighboring states, we must level the playing field for Minnesota businesses," Governor Carlson says. "If we expect to create and retain jobs, we need to continue to strive to make Minnesota a desirable place for businesses to say, locate or expand."Fiscal Responsibility: Governor Arne Carlson continues to demonstrate courage and leadership when it comes to managing the states's finances. He took office on January 3, 1991, inheriting a $2 billion deficit. By 1994, his Administration gave Minnesotans a $623 million surplus.
"We have come a long way together since that $2 billion deficit. We did it by proving that government can live within its means," Governor Carlson says. "I pledge to the people of Minnesota that there will be no new taxes imposed on them in 1994, '95 and '96."
BORN: September 24, 1934 FAMILY: Wife: Susan Carlson Children: Tucker, Anne and Jessica EDUCATION: Williams College, Massachusetts Choate School, Connecticut RECORD: o Sworn in as Governor in 1991 o Led the fight for term limits o Solved $2 billion deficit resulting in a $623 million surplus in just three years o Pledged that Minnesotans would face no new taxes in 1994, '95 and '96 o Proposed major welfare reform designed to put people to work and put families first o Developed a comprehensive crime package that included "3 Strikes and You're Out" provision and Youth Camps
Prepared by the Carlson/Benson Volunteer Committee
Wheelock Whitney & Chris Fritsche, Co-Chairs