West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey (R) announced a “backyard brawl” economic policy in his inaugural address Monday, pledging to make the Mountain State the “freest” state in the Union.
Morrissey, who replaced retiring Republican Gov. Jim Justice, announced an economic package aimed at revitalizing the Mountain State's economy.
Morrissey said in his speech:
It's time for West Virginia to become a national leader in economic growth and job creation.
Our strategy is clear and bold. Simplify our outdated tax code and lower our state's income taxes, lower than any of our neighboring states. We put more money back in your pocket.
We will streamline government and cut through the red tape that strangles small businesses and discourages investment. Our plan will make West Virginia the freest and most dynamic state in the nation.
When companies are looking for a place to grow, they find great opportunities here in West Virginia.
He continued:
This economic recovery is not just about reducing taxes and eliminating red tape, it is important to bring out the full potential of the people.
Moreover, active economic competition is taking place every day.
Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Kentucky…we’re coming for you!
Our path to prosperity starts with making West Virginia the easiest state in America to start and grow a business.
We look forward to working with all West Virginians and Americans who want to call the Mountain State home to showcase our workforce, resources and values.
Gov. Morrissey said the state will teach civics to West Virginia's children and “take the awakened virus out of our schools.”
“That means no more DEI. No more radical agendas. No more brainwashing. No more confusion about the difference between boys and girls,” he complained. “Under my administration, West Virginia's schools will be places of learning, not social experiments. If there's one thing I want you to remember from my remarks today, it's that we is about getting the government out of the way.”
Morrissey also touted a “backyard brawl” agenda during his gubernatorial campaign.
In an interview with Breitbart News Washington bureau chief Matthew Boyle at the Republican National Convention in July, Morrissey called for abolishing the state income tax.
He explained: “West Virginia has a real opportunity to grow. Our standard of living and educational attainment promote worker participation, and I want to do that while maintaining West Virginia's conservative values.” I claim it can be done.”
Sean Moran is a policy reporter at Breitbart News. Follow him on X @SeanMoran3.
