AUGUSTA (AP) – Republican and Democratic legislative leaders gave Gov. John Baldacci high marks for his State of the State speech.

Senate President Elizabeth Mitchell said the Democratic governor’s speech was “bold and visionary.” The Vassalboro Democrat also said Baldacci got it right Tuesday by saying Maine’s no longer the nation’s energy tailpipe, but rather right in the middle of the action.

Senate Minority Leader Kevin Raye of Perry gave Baldacci credit for presenting an optimistic theme while weaving the reality of hard economic times through his speech.

A fellow Republican, House Minority Leader Josh Tardy of Newport, also said the governor’s speech was positive but realistic. Tardy applauded Baldacci’s commitment to repay a state debt to hospitals.

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Information from: WMEA-FM, http://www.mpbn.net/index.html