GOP argument ‘flies in the face of independent analyses’

State House Democratic Leader Terie Norelli says a CNBC study, “America’s Top States for Business 2012,” confirms state budget cuts are damaging New Hampshire’s economy. In a Concord Monitor op-ed, she points out the Republican claim that their budget cuts and legislative priorities are good for the economy “flies in the face of independent analyses.”

According to the study, New Hampshire’s ranking dropped in infrastructure, transportation, and education — all areas that received devastating funding cuts in the GOP’s state budget. New Hampshire’s overall “economic” ranking suffered the biggest drop of all, plummeting from 10th to 34th nationwide.

What is frightening is the GOP’s promise to double down on their failed policies if re-elected this fall. Despite the job losses that would follow, O’Brien wants to cut another $400 million from the budget if he returns as speaker next term.

Like the economists who conducted CNBC’s “Best States for Business” study, Granite Staters know that quality infrastructure and an educated workforce are critical elements to a growing economy. If New Hampshire is to regain its role as a national leader in economic development, the Legislature we elect this fall needs to share those values.