Most people think recessions are bad, and, for the most part, they are. Yet recessions have beneficial aspects to them. Businesses have to refocus on their core products and become lean and innovative to survive. The companies that have adapted will emerge from a recession more efficient and productive.

Unfortunately, governments do not undergo recessions. When times are tough, they raise taxes. When times are good, the raised taxes bring in increased revenues and government expands.

Our government is also inefficient. This year it took three months for a friend to get a replacement for a lost auto title, and it took six months to license a physician for Lewiston when she was fully licensed elsewhere.

The Democrats have controlled the state Legislature for the last 30 years. During this time, they have transformed Maine into an anti-business, anti-job environment and essentially the No. 1 taxed state in the country. They say vote against the tax cap and elect us, and we will fix this problem. That is like the arsonist saying “make me a fireman, and I will put out the fire.”

The governments of Maine need a recession. Yes, there will be jobs lost, but governments need to re-examine themselves and to refocus on their core products. Education, police and fire protection are their core products and will be funded. Governments need the beneficial aspects of a recession. The tax cap is the only way this will happen.

Robert E. Tompson, Oxford