The Hiller Instinct: State of the State

What's become common in the Commonwealth is anger and anxiety. 

Today we watched a protest by firefighters, who just want to keep everything they have--even if the state can't afford it.

The firefighters argue cutting them puts public safety in jeopardy.

Police can make a similar argument and I don't think you'll be surprised if they do.

Or if teachers claim reducing revenue for education threatens the future of our children.

Everyone knows why everyone else can be cut, and why they shouldn't be.  That's something else that's common in the Commonwealth:  entitlement mixed with denial.

Meanwhile--while the budget collapses--our elected leaders at the State House are questioning one another's motives, sincerity, and ability.

Citizens are confused: Will the T keep running? Will there be toll collectors on the Turnpike on Memorial Day? Are the layoffs and furloughs the governor called for today just another fantasy?

It's time to get real:

To realize that government jobs were never intended to be the very best jobs--with benefits and guarantees the private sector can't match.

And to give thanks that Massachusetts--by law--is required to have a balanced budget. Because, if it weren't, you can be sure Beacon Hill would be trying to borrow and spend its way out this mess, just the way Washington is.

I'm Andy Hiller & that's my instinct.

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