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Responsible Government
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 Governor Blunt was taught to respect the value of a dollar, to expect accountability in government, and to cherish our American freedoms. Today, he is leading Missouri government forcefully toward the best and wisest use of the taxpayer's hard-earned resources, fighting waste in government, and delivering responsible and accountable service to the people.
A Balanced Budget. When he took office, Governor Blunt inherited a $1.1 billion budget deficit. Through fiscally responsible decision-making, Blunt balanced the state budget with no new taxes while providing more for education. Last year, the state experienced a small but real surplus - the first budget surplus in years. This year, Missouri's budget has an estimated $292 million surplus because Blunt balanced the budget the Missouri way - by getting control of spending and holding the line on taxes.
Tax Relief for Seniors. Senior citizens deserve to keep the Social Security benefits that they worked hard to earn, which is why Governor Blunt supported an end to cuts in Social Security through double taxation of seniors' benefits. The Senior Tax Justice Act provides tax relief to thousands of Missouri seniors, including teachers, firefighters, police officers, and military personnel.
Respecting Property Rights. Governor Blunt respects property ownership as a basic American right. In response to a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision that state and local governments can allow private interests to seize homes and other property for economic development under eminent domain, he asked lawmakers to pass and then signed into law legislation that protects property owners from government abuse of eminent domain.
Defending The Second Amendment. Matt Blunt believes in the rights guaranteed under the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution. These rights are particularly important in emergency situations like natural disasters, which is why Governor Blunt asked lawmakers to pass the 'Katrina Doctrine' bill, which he signed into law, that guarantees Missourians will retain their Second Amendment rights, especially in times of emergency. He also supported and signed the 'Castle Doctrine' to ensure the right of law-abiding citizens to protect their families and property from criminals.
No Taxation Without Representation. Governor Blunt called on statewide office holders and legislators to stand against taxation without representation and join him in support of House Joint Resolution 1, which prevents unelected judges from ordering tax increases on Missourians.
Targeting Waste, Fraud, and Abuse. Governor Blunt is targeting waste, fraud, and abuse in welfare after years of lax oversight, already saving more than $138 million in taxpayer dollars, keeping public assistance safe and available for those in genuine need.
Increasing Efficency. The Governor is putting education first, balancing the budget with no job-killing new taxes, and increasing efficiency in government. For the first time since 1999, the number of state workers in Missouri is below 60,000.
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