Editor’s note: The following Democratic Party response to Gov. Herbert’s State of the State Address was submitted by Rick Pollock, chairman of the Tooele County Democratic Party.
“We, too, believe education is the most important investment we can make for our future. While the governor lauds last year’s education bill, more needs to be done. Our state still languishes in last place in per pupil spending, and our classrooms are still overcrowded.
“While the governor challenges teachers, parents, and students to do more, we challenge him and the Legislature to give educators the tools they need to succeed.
“Another year brings more empty promises by our governor that work is being done to solve our air pollution problem. We have yet to see any results. We’re also concerned that the governor seems intent on selling off public land to companies outside of the state ensuring that every ounce of mineral, drop of oil, and molecule of gas can be extracted.
“Six years later, and Gov. Herbert still laments about the flaws of the Affordable Care Act. Meanwhile, thousands of Utahns, many right here in Tooele, go without proper healthcare simply because they fall within the gap. Tooele Democrats still firmly hold that ready access to affordable healthcare is the right of every citizen. And passing Medicaid expansion is the first step to achieving that goal. It’s time for our Legislature to finally pass a bill.
“We agree the state of the state is outstanding, as is the state of our nation. Unlike the governor, we believe some credit is owed to our president for guiding our nation through one of the worst economic crises in modern times.
“While we’re disappointed in his statements, we understand it’s an election year, the governor has a challenger from the right, and cheap political points against our president seem to go a long way in GOP circles.
“We invite our friends and neighbors to join us in fighting for Tooele County families and work on solutions to the obstacles we face every single day. We can’t do it without you.”