Florida state government is highly dependent on sales tax revenues, which predictably have plunged as a result of the pandemic. Massive budget cuts are in the offing. Since service cuts and layoffs are bound to be unpopular, however, the governor, presumably with the approval of the rest of the state GOP leadership, has decided to postpone the day of reckoning until after the election.
But what then? What will Roadrunner do when he reaches the cliff? It depends on the outcome of the election. If Biden wins, you will see new stimulus legislation addressing state and local government shortfalls in short order. If Trump wins, however, things become a bit more uncertain. Will the GOP small government fanatics take a victory lap by refusing aid and enforcing cuts all over the country? Or will Trump find a way to bail out his friends and punish his blue state enemies?
Let’s hope we never find out.