Rep. Armstrong Responds to State of the State Address 

MADISON, WI –Rep. Dave Armstrong (R-Rice Lake) joined his fellow legislators at the State Capitol last night to hear Gov. Tony Evers’ annual State of the State Address.

“Governor Evers acknowledged that a lot has changed since his last State of the State Address in 2020,” Representative Armstrong said.  “The past year has been more difficult than anyone could have expected.  Fortunately, the ongoing vaccine rollout – while not moving nearly as quickly as I am sure most of us would like – means we may finally be turning the page on COVID-19.  However, even as we begin to move forward, the State of Wisconsin must continue to address some of the lingering effects of the pandemic.

“Even in the week since I took office,” Representative Armstrong continued, “I have received contacts from several constituents who are still waiting for their unemployment benefits from the Governor’s Department of Workforce Development.  As I’ve said before, this is unacceptable, and I look forward to working to find permanent solutions to retool DWD, whether in standalone legislation or as part of the state budget process.  Both sides of the aisle also need to work together to help Wisconsin schools and businesses reopen as quickly – and as safely – as possible.  Thanks to years of responsible budgeting under Republican stewardship, Wisconsin’s fiscal house is in good order despite all the setbacks from 2020, but it is important we not go too much longer with one hand tied behind our back.

“There are challenges ahead, but also opportunities,” Representative Armstrong concluded.  “In addition to standalone legislation like Assembly Bill 1 – the COVID response bill – the 2021-2023 state budget is also coming up in the near future, and I look forward to working with my fellow legislators to get Wisconsin moving forward.”