House Republicans Call For Balance of Power in State Government

HARTFORD — State Representative Ben McGorty (R-122) joined members of the House Republican caucus Thursday in voting to restore the balance of power to state government. Despite efforts by their caucus to reach across the aisle for the benefit of their constituents, House Democrats voted party line to once again extend the governor’s unilateral authority.

“I would say I’m disappointed, but that wouldn’t even begin to describe it,” said McGorty, who serves as an Assistant Republican Leader in the chamber. “After what we’ve witnessed in the first half of this session, with members of the other party calling for radical tax increases and giving Hartford control over our local zoning, they’ve made it clear what their priorities are. They will continue to allow the governor to run our state government single-handedly so they can focus on their favorite priorities: taxes and more government.”

Since January, the legislature has conducted meetings, hearings and votes remotely. The State Capitol and Legislative Office Building remain closed to the public with no timeline for when visitors will be allowed to return. McGorty argues that Democratic leaders are hiding behind the virtual process to push more radical proposals to raise spending and taxes.

“We offered an amendment to clarify how much power the governor can wield in a state of emergency. Our colleagues across the aisle voted the party line to defeat it. Not one single Democrat in that chamber was willing to place any restrictions on this governor’s power,” McGorty said.

The Republican amendment asked for a review of all existing orders, limitations on the length of time executive order powers can be granted – decreasing the standard from 60-days to 30, and, basing final approval on the order’s constitutionality. You can learn more by clicking here.