Governor Scott Walker reveals part two of a fact sheet aiming to get businesses in Illinois to “Escape to Wisconsin.”
The Republican governor compares taxes in both states for things like food, sales, medication, electricity, natural gas and the estate tax.
However, former deputy secretary of commerce Zach Brandon says businesses factor in more than just taxes when considering where to set up shop. “That’s what I’m objecting to … the fact that you think you can lure businesses away on the argument of taxes alone. And if it was just about taxes, then every business would move to West Virginia.”
Last week the governor of Illinois signed into law a 66 percent personal income tax hike and a 46 percent corporate tax increase; Walker was quick to point that out. Road signs welcoming people into the Badger State now read, “Open for Business.”
Brandon says rather than trying to raid the border, Wisconsin officials should promote the state’s best features, including the infrastructure, a well-trained workforce, and access to customers.
Brandon says the future of Wisconsin depends not on raiding other states, but on finding the next home-grown marquee business, like Harley Davidson, Kohler, SC Johnson, Oshkosh Truck, Manitowoc Cranes.
