I appreciated the Sun Journal editorial Jan. 26, complimenting me for my work to lower the cost of state government by eliminating 50-plus non-essential, upper-level state government supervisory positions.

This is very difficult work that I have focused on for many years and through more than one administration. We in state government need to set an example for schools and county government by being as efficient as possible, eliminating duplication and newly created upper-level management positions.

However, I need to correct the editorial’s insinuation that “30 positions had been cut, only 20 left – good work Sen. Nutting.” Only eight positions have been voted for elimination in the budget, so far. That’s a good start, but the elimination of the 43 positions left would lower state government expenses by more than $3,500,000 a year – and set a good example.

I’ve stated many times that I can’t support a budget that doesn’t make cuts at the top of state government that could offset some cuts to our most vulnerable citizens.

Growing up on a farm, my grandfather always told me, “If you’re going to point your finger at someone else – you’d better remember that three of your fingers are pointing back at yourself.”

Sen. John Nutting, D-Leeds