West Virginians have enjoyed three good years during Gov. Joe Manchin’s term in office. So much progress has been made on so many issues involving the state and everyone who lives here that we have no doubt that voters will elect Manchin to another four-year term in office.
Manchin doesn’t need our endorsement or, for that matter, formal support from any corner. His record speaks for itself. So many Mountain State residents have been touched beneficially by the governor’s actions that it is clear that he will be the voters’ choice again this year, despite the fact that a Raleigh County legislator has chosen to oppose him in the Democratic Party primary.
Of course, Manchin views bringing progress to our state as a team effort, primarily involving his office and the Legislature. Working together — often, it should be noted, as a result of leadership by the governor — lawmakers and Manchin have accomplished things some West Virginians may not have thought possible, just a few years ago.
It is impossible for us to list all the progress made during the past three years. There simply is not enough space in these columns for even a brief account of the most important initiatives undertaken during the Manchin administration. A glance at a few of the most critical accomplishments is instructive, however:
? West Virginia families have been given some relief from the sales tax on food. Businesses have benefited from reductions in both the corporate net income and franchise taxes. That spurs job creation.
? Insurance reform has saved Mountain State families millions of dollars through lower premiums, notably on vehicle coverage.
? Government is more efficient, with the state payroll reduced by hundreds of positions. That provides more money for programs important to West Virginians.
? Our state’s financial house is being put in order, slowly but surely. During the Manchin administration alone, about $2 billion in state debt, including unfunded liabilities for public employee pensions, has been paid down.
? The Workers’ Compensation program, once a disaster for working West Virginians, businesses and taxpayers, has been addressed. “Privatization” of workers’ compensation insurance has been a major step forward.
? Efforts have been made to improve public schools throughout the state. Teachers worried about their pension system have been offered an alternative.
Much more has been accomplished during the first three years of Manchin’s current term in office. Again, a substantial amount of progress has been due to the governor’s leadership.
We believe that most Mountain State voters are well aware of the progress made during the Manchin years — and will reflect that in the ballots they cast this year.
