Well How About That

Remember back at the end of 2007 when the Baltimore Sun boldly proclaimed “the deficit slain” ?

It was an impressive victory for Mr. O’Malley – with significant and lasting implications. At a minimum, it means the state’s structural deficit has finally been brought under control beyond the piecemeal, “take from Peter to pay Paul” approach of the last administration.

While next year’s projected $1.7 billion deficit has been largely resolved, it will still require significant spending cuts. But there’s no reason to expect the problem to return within the next several years – if appropriate spending discipline is maintained.

Fast forward to 2011—so much for that appropriate spending discipline. Thanks to Martin O’Malley’s first four budgets as governor, and those very same Peter to Paul gimmicks the Sun bemoaned, Maryland’s immortal structural deficit is now $1.6 billion.

Trending: Thank You

Who did the Sun editorial board endorse for governor back in November?