Is it time for another great gubernatorial revival?
With 36 gubernatorial elections this November and at least 19 states preparing for new leadership, there is a tremendous opportunity to revive the kind of energetic governorships that helped define the 1990s.
It might seem like ancient history now, but during the early 1990s, governors led the way on major reforms to welfare, education, and public safety, often setting ambitious agendas long before Washington acted. Perhaps the most notable example was the leadership of Wisconsin Gov. Tommy Thompson and Michigan Gov. John Engler in advancing welfare reform. Meanwhile, Congress was beset by a bevy of scandals and institutional complacency after four decades of one-party control of the House of Representatives.
Today, with Congress increasingly dysfunctional and federal spending on an unsustainable path, we need governors who are willing to challenge Washington, reclaim state independence, and once again lead the way on ambitious reforms.
In a new essay for Governing, I make the case for just that, arguing that any serious effort to restore fiscal responsibility in Washington may have to begin in the states, with governors leading the way. Congress will not reform itself without a serious push from the states.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has become the best example of that kind of leadership, demonstrating a willingness to challenge Washington, even leaders in his own party, particularly when state independence and fiscal responsibility are at stake.
—Ray Nothstine
— The Federalism Beat