Rep. Eric Nelson, a Republican representing Westmoreland County, responded to Governor Josh Shapiro’s recent budget address by expressing concern over what he described as continued overspending. In his statement, Nelson said, “Government must live within its means, and our citizens deserve a timely budget. Unfortunately, Gov. Shapiro proposes big overspending again. His proposal spends $6.4 billion more than we have, and our $8 billion surplus was spent last year. Now, he seeks to raid our Rainy Day Fund, provide marijuana for all and tax gambling machines in non-casinos at 52%. We can see where overspending is taking us, and once our Rainy Day Fund is exhausted, we may be looking at a massive tax increase on working families.”
Nelson also commented on the long-term impact of such fiscal decisions: “Habitual overspending weighs heavy in years to come. With the Rainy Day Fund squandered, there won’t be enough marijuana to consume to make up for Harrisburg’s overspending. We must tighten the belt now to avoid significant cuts or tax increase later.”
Despite his criticism of the proposed spending increases, Nelson noted some positive aspects of the governor’s plan: “The governor’s budget does propose positive investments, including hiring 380 more state police as well as prioritizing K-12 education. His acknowledgement of the role that private industry plays in job creation is encouraging and I hope he will continue to recognize that industries and economies grow and create new jobs despite government, not because of it.”
He concluded with a call for an efficient budget process: “We must keep working through the budget process and reach agreement without a long budget impasse. What happened last year was a terrible example of Harrisburg’s inefficiency. Pennsylvania can do better.”
Nelson is known for his focus on fiscal responsibility and taxpayer interests throughout his tenure as a state representative according to his official website. He has served on several legislative committees including Appropriations and Aging and Older Adult Services as outlined online, and holds leadership roles such as deputy chair of the Republican Policy Committee.
His legislative work includes support for veterans—an area informed by his background in the U.S. Marine Corps—and advocacy for pension reform as well as efforts against drug abuse per public records. Nelson also chairs caucuses focused on gas and oil policy along with autism and intellectual disabilities issues according to available information.
In addition to his political career, Nelson previously operated a Bruster’s ice cream franchise for 16 years while raising seven children according to biographical details. He remains active in community initiatives supporting local concerns including veterans’ affairs.
