Governor proposes more spending to quell fears of state’s decline

(The Center Square) – A proposal to spend $1.9 billion more than he proposed 13 months ago has been offered by first-term Democratic Gov. Josh Stein in a $35.44 billion state budget for fiscal year 2027.

In March of last year, Stein unveiled a spending plan of $67.9 billion for two years – $33.65 billion in 2025-26 and $34.35 billion in 2026-27. Republicans have majorities in both chambers of the General Assembly, meaning the plan has little chance of full success.

Stein, in a press conference Tuesday, did as his predecessor – now U.S. Senate candidate Roy Cooper – by presenting arguably a fearmongering rhetoric about where the state stands. He lauded the accolades of top state to do business, increasing population and destination for a home by residents leaving other states in the same breath of saying “the winning formula” is at risk.

He cited public education, public safety, health care, inflation, Hurricane Helene and federal mandates increasing state and local government costs...