According to the Department of Transportation, 92.7% of the state highways that carry 70% of our freight and 49% of our traffic are in fair or better shape. Our next state budget will focus on safety and the maintenance of the state and local systems. 

Specifically, I asked the Secretary of Transportation to submit a budget by September 15 with no increase in the gas tax. 

When I ran for re-election in 2014, I made it clear that I would not raise the gas tax without an equal or greater reduction in other state taxes. I plan on keeping that promise.

Tomorrow, we’re kicking off the 165th Wisconsin State Fair – the original summer tradition.

Every year, families from around the state come to West Allis for the famous Wisconsin State Fair. We look forward to all the fun this event brings every year, from the cream puffs and other classic Wisconsin treats to the Blue Ribbon Livestock and Meat Products Auctions.

Here are a few fun facts about last year’s state fair:

• Attendees? 1,033,053
• Number of slides down the giant slide? 121,000 - I took one of them
• Number of cream puffs consumed? 400,000 - I ate more than one
• Dollars raised at the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction? $420,000
• Pounds of food donated to the Hunger Task Force? 127,000

Those are the numbers to beat!

This year, the fantastic food served at the State Fair is being highlighted on the Travel Channel’s “Food Paradise” show, where hosts will sample an array of Wisconsin fan-favorites.

We’ll be participating in events throughout the duration of the Wisconsin State Fair, which runs from August 4th to August 14th. We hope to see you there!