Jefferson City - In just a few short days, gubernatorial candidate Jay Nixon has already reconsidered his “no tax” pledge. On April 10, a Nixon spokesman went on the record stating, “Jay won’t raise taxes,” but by April 14, while speaking to the Missouri Association of Counties, Nixon was already backpedalling. He explained, “What I said was very precise…I don’t have any plans” to raise taxes. That sounds like lawyer speak for “I’m trying to fool Missourians, of course I’m going to raise taxes.”

Throughout Nixon’s career, he hasn’t encountered a single tax increase that he didn’t like. From his time as a State Senator, to Attorney General, and federal candidate he has supported billions of dollars in state and federal tax hikes. Along with his ongoing support for a failed health care plan that alone would require a nearly $1 billion state tax hike, it is hard to accept his “pledge” as anything more than a disingenuous campaign promise.

“Clearly Nixon hasn’t kept his word in the past when it comes to not increasing taxes, and it should not surprise the people of Missouri that he has gone back on his word, yet again,” said Tina Hervey, communications director. “Jay Nixon should be honest with Missourians regarding his plans for massive tax increases so that government can be all things to all people – that is his devastating plan for Missouri.”