Tolbert: Lack Of Consensus On Big Issues Prevalent

Jason Tolbert with our content partner, The Tolbert Report, appeared on this week’s edition of Talk Business to discuss the week’s activities at the state legislature.

On the subject of tax cuts, tax hikes, Congressional redistricting and proposed constitutional amendments, Tolbert still sees a lack of consensus among chamber leaders and party leaders.

"It’s difficult to see what’s going to play out. The Senate and the House are kind of in a game of chicken to see who’s going to blink," said Tolbert.

He also says that GOP House support for proposed tax increase referrals caught some conservatives off guard.

"I think it’s taken a lot of Republicans by surprise," said Tolbert in reference to Rep. Jonathan Barnett’s (R-Siloam Springs) proposal to refer a half-cent sales tax increase for road construction to voters. Barnett has lined up 73 House sponsors, including many GOP House members.

"It surprised a lot of Republicans that this many signed on – roughly half the caucus wound up supporting it," Tolbert said.

For more insight on how the political debates are shaping up, you can view Tolbert’s full interview in the video below.