The Chaos in Washington: Revealing the Power of State Governance
The chaos unfolding in Washington has left many Americans feeling embarrassed and overwhelmed. From the historical ousting of Rep. Kevin McCarthy as House speaker to the propaganda flooding from all sides, the current state of affairs is disheartening. However, our nation’s founders would not have been surprised by this chaos, as they understood the complex nature of human behavior.
Aware of the inherent chaos of human nature, the founders crafted a system of governance that would mitigate its effects. They wisely created a separation of powers among the federal branches and allocated significant powers to state governments. They understood that a powerful central government could potentially cause harm through its actions, intentions, or sheer incompetence. Consequently, they granted limited powers to the central government and encouraged Congress to frequently leave the nation’s capital.
Even in our present time, where the federal government is extensively involved in various aspects of our lives, the chaos in Washington primarily remains confined to the online realm. We continue to live our lives, going to work, church, school, and engaging in activities like sports, music, and video games. Our daily lives are not dependent on the House of Representatives appointing a speaker or passing numerous legislations.
Nonetheless, it remains crucial for us to elect individuals of high caliber to public office. These individuals make policies that directly impact us, particularly during the annual tax season on April 15th. Yet, discerning the quality of federal representatives amidst the cacophony of noise can be challenging. In light of this, we have identified three state-level elected officials who exemplify the characteristics of good governance:
1. North Carolina State Treasurer Dale Folwell: Folwell has diligently worked to stabilize and strengthen North Carolina’s pension and healthcare systems. He has also prioritized transparency for taxpayers by disclosing the cost of state benefits. Recognized by the North Carolina Open Government Coalition, Folwell holds regular teleconferences where journalists can ask him anything.
2. Former Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam: With a proven track record of balancing budgets, Haslam understands the significance of responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. He believes that solving problems rather than engaging in political games is a hallmark of effective governance. Haslam was recognized as a Governing Public Official of the Year in 2018.
3. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds: Governor Reynolds has successfully curbed the growth of state spending, creating billion-dollar surpluses. She is determined to eliminate the state’s individual income tax and has championed the Student First Act, which provides parents with greater educational choices for their children.
These examples highlight the importance of effective leadership at the state and local levels. Entrusting more power to these entities not only fosters good governance but also prevents the people from becoming disengaged spectators.
In an era where excessive spending in Washington has become a norm, many states and localities shine as beacons of responsible budget processes. By prioritizing the interests of their constituents, these policymakers demonstrate their commitment to serving the people.
As the chaos in Washington continues, it is imperative that we remain informed and engaged. The government officials mentioned here serve as a testament to the positive impact that effective leadership can have on our lives. By electing individuals who are close to the people and share their interests, we can ensure a government that truly serves the needs of its citizens.
Ray Nothstine, the Future of Freedom Fellow at the State Policy Network and a senior editor and writer, manages American Habits, a new publication on federalism. Dustin Siggins, a former political journalist and founder of the public relations firm Proven Media Solutions, has contributed to this article.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article belong to the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Governing’s editors or management.
