The Kansas Chamber of Commerce used some over-the-top rhetoric during the state budget debate — making it seem as if the world would end if the Legislature raised taxes by even a dime.
Still, it was shocking that its interim president, Kent Beisner, blasted the Legislature Saturday for catering "to the needs of those at the government trough."
So schoolchildren and individuals with disabilities are akin to pigs at a trough? And lawmakers are bad for caring about those who depend on state services?
Gov. Mark Parkinson was rightly offended by Beisner's comment. He responded in a statement:
"Kansas mothers, fathers, grandfathers and grandmothers, who depend on Medicaid to receive care in their final years, are not pigs at the trough.
"Our children, who are given only one small window to receive a quality education and be productive members of our society, are not pigs at the trough.
"Our law enforcement, corrections officers and emergency responders who keep our streets safe and seek justice for crime victims are not pigs at the trough."
Not only did Beisner insult many Kansans, he also vowed to punish legislators who supported the tax increase. "In the coming weeks, we will be working tirelessly to expose those who voted to impose higher taxes on job creators and families," he said.
Before doing that, Beisner and the Kansas Chamber should reconsider whether their bullying is helpful or hurtful.
To read the complete editorial, visit The Wichita Eagle.
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