“During the past three years, I have worked with my colleagues to ensure that state government remains accessible and accountable. In those efforts, We succeeded in our efforts to reform spending, balance the state budget, and construct an environment that attracts job creators and raises the standard of living for Michigan families.

“As I’m sure you are well aware, the federal government has not used the Michigan model for providing efficient and effective leadership. 

“We do have some thoughtful federal legislators committed to helping taxpayers and building a healthy economy, but as a whole, the federal government has failed to produce a workable budget and has effectively shut down. However, I want to assure you that all state offices and departments will remain open, as the budget we completed and passed in June goes into effect today.

“I am proud to say that, over the past three years, I have worked with my colleagues to pass a balanced budget four months early each year, which is quicker than it has been done over the past 30 years! It was a ‘Team’ effort. This process resulted in paying down more than $21 billion in debt and saving almost $580 million in the state’s rainy day fund. We have achieved these goals by making difficult decisions, offering common-sense solutions that deliver real, proven results, and providing a predictable, stable framework for the hard-working taxpayers of our state.

“Please know I will continue to fight for Michigan conservative values and make sure our state is a place where our children and grandchildren can prosperously live, work, and raise a family.”