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Rothfeld's campaign promises of tax reform ring hollow

Rothfeld's campaign promises of tax reform ring hollow

Date published: 6/5/2003

I recently received literature from the campaign of Mike Rothfeld promising that, if elected, he will vote against all tax increases, vote for state tax cuts and vote to impose a 5 percent cap on locality tax increases, while demanding quality education.

Those statements translate into, "I will take a politically correct stance by telling you what you want to hear while not being held accountable for any tax increases."

The concept that during weak economic times you can cut taxes and retain service is contradictory. The funding of "core services," such as education, law enforcement and the courts would be increasingly shifted to the localities. His proposed 5 percent "cap" on property taxes, while increasing locality fiscal burden, would severely hamper localities' abilities to meet their current liabilities.

Mr. Rothfeld's campaign presents no long- or short-term fiscal plan for the commonwealth, only unsound economic proposals. His attempts to paint Sen. John Chichester, R-Stafford, as a free-spending liberal is repudiated by the fact that Virginia ranks 43rd in tax burden in the nation (only seven states have a lower tax burden).

Sen. Chichester has a proven record of fiscal conservatism, honesty, impeccable integrity and effective leadership. He has refused to resort to dirty politics, such as smear tactics or empty promises, instead running on his record.

Every vote counts, I urge you to turn out at the polls and vote for Sen. John Chichester in the June 10 Republican primary.

Charles V. Mason

King George

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Date published: 6/5/2003