Discontent Among Governors Regarding NGA Dues

In Colorado Springs, Colorado, the chairman of the National Governors Association (NGA), Kevin Stitt, expressed his disappointment over a potential shift among some Democratic governors to withhold dues from bipartisan groups. It seems that as the summer meeting approaches, two Democratic governors—Tim Walz of Minnesota and Laura Kelly of Kansas—indicate they will stop paying their membership fees in response to President Trump’s second term.

In an exclusive interview during the NGA’s summer conference, Stitt remarked, “We shouldn’t politicize everything as they do in Washington, DC. Yet, sometimes, when you’re a governor with presidential aspirations, it becomes political.” Kelly, notably, serves as the chair of the Democratic Governors Association, a group that has criticized the Trump administration. Meanwhile, Walz is contemplating a third gubernatorial run, having been an outspoken critic of the administration since his vice presidential bid with Kamala Harris last year.

As the Democratic grievances escalate, Colorado’s own Jared Polis is set to hand over his chairmanship to Stitt during the summer meeting. Maryland’s Wes Moore is expected to step in as vice-chairman.

Stitt noted his respect for both Walz and Kelly, questioning the effectiveness of returning home “just because you’re angry about something,” suggesting that such actions don’t help resolve issues. “This isn’t the time to take our toys and go home. We need to sit down and find the best policies,” he added.

He also acknowledged the frustration stemming from continuous Democratic attacks on Trump, but emphasized the potential for governors to collaborate on key issues, including the national debt, which exceeds $36 trillion.

Despite the growing tensions, NGA Communications Director Eric Walshlegel reinforced the organization’s bipartisan mission, stating it remains unchanged. Reports surfaced that some Democratic members felt the NGA didn’t strongly respond to the suspension of federal funds by the Trump administration earlier this year, causing further discontent.

According to sources, the internal conflict seems to stem from a mix of personal ambitions and a desire to reshape nonpartisan institutions into political entities. Yet, there haven’t been any public complaints regarding the integrity or management of the NGA.

Jared Polis’ spokesperson highlighted that the governor intends to promote collaborative efforts among governors, focusing on educational reforms and standing up to federal overreach regarding state priorities.

The spokesperson emphasized the necessity for bipartisan organizations during these polarized times, urging the NGA to deliver value to all governors and effectively communicate their views.

Stitt’s spokesperson reminded that the NGA is fundamentally a bipartisan organization, not a political tool. Efforts to reach out to Walz and Kelly for comments yielded no immediate responses.