A political scientist expects Governor Jim Doyle's State of the State address will try to calm economic jitters. With Wall Street quaking and world financial markets shaking, UW La Crosse political science professor Joe Heim believes that's where Doyle will put much of his focus tonight.
Heim expects Doyle will talk up his initiatives to increase investment in research and development with new tax credits and incentives, and to promote efforts to revitalize the state's manufacturing and agriculture sectors. He could also point out that the falling value of the dollar is expected to boost Wisconsin's exports. Closer to home, Doyle will likely tout his BadgerCare Plus and Wisconsin Covenant initiatives — and maybe make one more pitch for compromise on that elusive statewide smoking ban
Heim also expects Doyle will call on a legislature that didn't accomplish much last year to get something done on issues such as campaign finance reform and funding for virtual charter schools. The governor addresses a joint session of the legislature tonight at 7:00.
