(The Center Square) – The Republican running for governor in Wisconsin is at odds with top Republicans in the state legislature over a $1.8 billion tax relief plan being offered by the governor.
Tom Tiffany said during an interview on News Talk 1130 WISN on Tuesday that he would not vote for the package that would send $600 million more to schools in the state, in exchange for no taxes on tips or overtime, and direct refund checks to taxpayers across the state.
“I would not vote for it,” Tiffany said.
He blamed Gov. Tony Evers for offering Republicans a bad deal.
“He could have put in here the repeal of the 400-year property tax increase, and he did not,” Tiffany added. “All he wanted in there for the relief was a ‘sugar high’ for a year.”
Tiffany’s comments add an extra complication for Republican lawmakers, some of whom have already said they will not vote for the plan.
Both the State Senate and State Assembly are set to vote on the compromise, and Assembly Majority Leader Tyler August also said Tuesday morning that Republicans in the Assembly are “ready to move forward” on the tax deal.
“I understand why Republicans may support this, because they’re at least getting something,” Tiffany said. “I get why they would want to take a victory here, but we need long-term systemic tax relief.”
Tiffany is just the latest candidate for governor to weigh in against the tax proposal.
On Monday, Democratic frontrunner Francesca Hong also said she will vote against the tax package.
“@GovEvers bargain with the GOP is bad for Wisconsin, and I will be voting no,” Hong wrote on X. “This backroom deal is a payday loan taken out at the expense of our children, our infrastructure, our economy, and our future.”
Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez on Tuesday said she is in favor of the deal on the table.
“The deal between Gov. Evers and Republican legislators is a compromise that’s far from perfect, and it’s a reminder of how much better off Wisconsin would be with Democratic majorities in the state legislature,” Rodriguez wrote on X. “I support increasing funding for public schools and special education and providing property tax relief for homeowners. I also support doing more.”
Lawmakers in Madison are set to hold a hearing on the tax package Tuesday afternoon. It is scheduled to go to a vote Wednesday.
