TheChat: Gov. Jay Nixon touts record of not raising taxes

Good morning.

▪ “For the eighth consecutive year, we will balance the budget without raising taxes.” — Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon on one of the session’s key accomplishments.

In a state with divided government, Nixon has to work sometimes to come up with a litany of accomplishments. One question worth pondering: Should the state have raised taxes at least once during the last eight years to deal with issues, such as schools, highways or mental health?

▪ “If you’re going to attack somebody, you’ve got to pay the consequences.” —Missouri state Rep. Galen Higdon, a St. Joseph Republican, explaining a new state gun proposal that would allow a person to use deadly force in public places if they believe a reasonable threat exists.

The law, sent to Gov. Jay Nixon, also makes it legal for people to carry concealed weapons without a permit.

▪ “This is about undermining the union movement as we know it.” — Missouri state Sen. Jamilah Nasheed, a St. Louis Democrat, explaining her opposition to the so-called “paycheck protection” bill.

The state Senate attempted to override Gov. Jay Nixon’s veto of the measure, but fell short by a single vote.

▪ “These numbers come as no surprise.” — Kansas state Sen. Anthony Hensley, the Democratic leader, on Gov. Sam Brownback’s job-approval numbers, which rank as the lowest in the nation.

In fact, they’re even lower than Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder, who has been dealing with the Flint water crisis. Nearly two-thirds of Kansans participating in a new poll — 65 percent — disapproved of Brownback’s job performance.