Governor-Elect Beebe says it's time for partisanship to be put aside and to work together on issues like education and economic growth. Beebe was also talking about the budget. His first news conference since his election was held today on the front steps of the capitol. He says it's time for partisanship to be put aside and to work together on issues like education and economic growth.
"Because he's going to eliminate grocery taxes and lower property taxes,” says Taylor Nicholson.
That's why Taylor Nicholson says she voted for Mike Beebe, even though her vote didn't count. And for an eight-year-old she knows Beebe's campaign inside and out.
"Attack this grocery tax-to give property tax relief to make sure pre-k is there for all our youngsters who need it and want it. To make sure the quality of education continues to go forward," says Beebe.
Taylor was one of many who attended Governor Elect Mike Beebe's first news conferences at the state capitol. First order of business, fix the state's crumbling schools. One way he proposes doing that is with the help of the general fund.
"I think the bulk oughta be spent for higher education and economic development," says Beebe.
The other big ticket issue that put him in this position was the promise of phasing out the grocery tax. He says with the new budget surplus projections may help speed up the process.
"I'm pleased the budget numbers are up. I thin it affords us the opportunity to do even more in the way of doing this we said were already going to do, including being able to attack that grocery tax, “ Beebe says.
The Governor-Elect also says he will be more accessible to all Arkansans and is doing all he can to have a genuine partnership with the general assembly.
"Someone like Taylor is who we are fighting for. There are thousands of Taylors out there that deserve the same opportunity," says Beebe.
An opportunity that will help not only the state, but Arkansans of all ages.
"I want to be governor just like Mike Beebe," says Taylor.
The school facility report and the estimated dollar amount to fix the state's schools will be presented to the general assembly on December 12th.
