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With our economic stimulus program, which was the first introduced in the country, and with the partnership in Washington, I think we are laying a firm economic foundation. When the economy turns, as it will inevitably, we will be in a strong position to lead the nation in recovery.

Dealing with the national economic emergency: As the governor said in the State of the State, the economy is priority 1, priority 2 and priority 3. The Corzine administration will continue to work tirelessly to address the immediate hardships caused by the crisis, ensure that all New Jerseyans are treated fairly, and see to it that the state is poised to prosper once the recovery takes hold.

Creating jobs and putting New Jersey on a sound fiscal footing: Recovering from the current crisis is just the beginning. Governor Corzine will keep looking for ways to stimulate job creation even as he continues to stabilize the state’s long-term financial practices.

Providing affordable healthcare for all: Even as the Obama administration makes progress on a national healthcare plan, Governor Corzine is ensuring that all New Jersey resident have access to appropriate and affordable healthcare.

Keeping education a top priority: New Jersey schools – from preschools up to universities – are second to none. The Corzine administration will continue to make sure progressive education programs are funded and our children have the chance they deserve.

Protecting the middle class: Too often in a fiscal crunch decisions get made that place undue burdens on the middle class. Governor Corzine has vowed to defend the middle class and find innovative, progressive ways to generate the revenues needed to fund essential programs and balance the budget.

Be a partner, not an obstacle: Governor Corzine’s partnership with President Obama, his cabinet, Democrats in the US Congress and here in New Jersey is well-known. As the country moves in a new, more progressive, direction that attempts to undo to the damage of the Bush years, it’s critical that New Jersey has a leader who is in sync with that vision and will not let New Jersey get left behind.

It may sound like a cliché, but the governor truly believes our state’s best days lie ahead. And when we come through this moment – stronger, wiser, better prepared – our state will be prepared to prosper as never before.