Minnesota gubernatorial candidate Kendall Qualls recently blasted Gov. Tim Walz and the “St. Paul Swamp” after Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte invited Minnesota business owners to move to his state.
In a Friday statement, the GOP hopeful blamed Minnesota’s depleted business climate on the high-tax policies of the governor and state leaders.
“It is absolutely shameful that other governors are looking at Minnesota as an opportunity to poach our businesses and their families,” Qualls said. “Gov. Walz and the St. Paul Swamp have failed Minnesotans because they are incapable of providing a business friendly climate. Minnesota is full of hardworking individuals who want to succeed, but with the 6th highest tax burden, our government is making it harder and harder for business owners to meet their bottom line and afford to live here.”
Earlier that same day, Gov. Gianforte penned an open letter to Minnesota business owners that encouraged them to come to his state.
“I write to offer you greater tax and regulatory certainty as well as a business-friendly climate in Montana,” he said, adding that Montana has been ranked the best U.S. state to start a small business.
“With the Minnesota unemployment insurance trust fund in debt and state government unable to fix it, I understand you are facing higher taxes that will shrink your bottom line, will prevent you from growing your business, and could cost Minnesota jobs,” he explained.
Qualls urged any Minnesota business owners thinking of heeding Gov. Gianforte’s call to support his campaign and wait it out.
“I’ve been warning residents that our state is on a dangerous trajectory, which is why when I’m governor I will decrease taxes and provide a business friendly climate. I ask employers who might be looking at Montana’s offer to support me and stay in Minnesota until I’m governor next year,” he said.
According to his “six issues in six months” platform, Qualls vows to cut both business and personal taxes: “Cut the business tax to 7% so it’s the lowest in the region and cut the personal taxes from four tiers to two — 3% and 6% (everyone receives a tax cut).”
Evan Stambaugh
Evan Stambaugh is a freelance writer who had previously been a sports blogger. He has a BA in theology and an MA in philosophy.
